Williston Observer 12/29/2022

2022 in the rearview

2022 will likely be remembered as the year we emerged from the pandemic. It has also been a time when Williston welcomed new civic leaders, advanced forward-thinking environmental and land-use initiatives, saw new businesses take root and wrestled with the challenges of a growing community.

Here are the stories that shaped the community over the past 12 months.

POST OFFICE UNDERSTAFFING SLOWS MAIL DELIVERY

Frustration with the Williston Post Office grew as mail delivery sputtered — an issue that stretches back to the middle of 2021. Residents reported weeklong delivery stoppages and a lack of responsiveness from the U.S. Postal Service when filing complaints or seeking information about the problem.

Vermont lawmakers and Vermont’s Congressional delegation — hearing of similar stories around the state — attempted to pressure the U.S. Postal Service into action. In February, state lawmakers sent a resolution to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and to Congress asking that DeJoy’s 10-year reform effort be scuttled. And in April, Congress passed the Postal Reform Act aimed at financial sustainability and public accountability for the service.

Still, by year’s end, under the increased mail volume of the holiday season, the service in Williston is as erratic as ever.

“I know the post office is having its problems with staffing, but for it to go on like this for this long is just not right,” resident George Stief said, “Someone — or a number of people — are just plain dropping the ball.”

A rainbow arcs toward Butternut Road during a reprieve in Friday’s storm, which brought high winds, rain and snow.

SELECTBOARD APPROVES

TAFT CORNERS

‘FORM-BASED CODE’

After redrawing its boundaries and lowering building height allowances, the Wil-

liston selectboard approved a final version of a zoning regulation rewrite for the Taft Corners district. The “form-based code” was the result of two years of planning and public input, led by the planning commission with the help of a contracted consul-

HOT DOG DECEMBER

tant. It aims to help the town realize goals stated in the Comprehensive Town Plan of creating a pedestrian-friendly, densely developed neighborhood in the 1,000-acre area around the intersection of Routes 2 and 2A.

“The form-based code is one of the best options we have to manage growth in a sustainable way that has public benefit,” resident Kyle Sala said during public hearings.

REDISTRICTING CHANGES WILLISTON’S REPRESENTATION IN STATE GOVERNMENT

Williston’s single legislative district was split in two in a new statewide redistricting law based on the results of the 2020 census.

The split reflects the town’s population growth over the past decade: The town grew by roughly 2,000 residents since the 2010 census.

The majority of Williston residents remained grouped in the Chittenden 2 district and continued to be represented by two state legislators. But about 1,500 residents on the southwest side of town were grouped with about 2,700 South Burlington residents to form the new Chittenden 8 district.

The new districts were first used in the August primary then again in the November general election, when Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault were elected to represent Chittenden 2 and Noah Hyman of South Burlington was elected in Chittenden 8.

SELECTBOARD FUNDS ENERGY COORDINATOR POSITION

The selectboard backed a citizen-led initiative to reduce the town’s impact on global warming by adding an Energy Coordinator to the Fiscal Year 2023 budget. The position was filled in April with the hiring of Melinda Scott.

Scott began working with the newly empaneled town Energy Committee to imple-

Shelburne Road, S. Burlington Maple Tree Place, Williston GetBlissBee.com

Say it ain't so!

see 2022 page 2

ment the goals of the town’s Energy Plan, which the selectboard incorporated into the Comprehensive Town Plan in 2020.

Among its first initiatives is the promotion of electric vehicles and home weatherization.

SELECTBOARD MEMBER RESIGNS AFTER CRIMINAL CHARGES

Gordon St. Hilaire resigned his seat on the Williston Selectboard after pleading not guilty to charges of stalking and unlawful mischief. Since the December arraignment in Chittenden County Criminal Court, no other court

hearings have been set.

Williston police officers allegedly caught St. Hilaire looking for his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle and say he confessed to repeatedly deflating her car tire in an effort to get her to contact him. St. Hilaire had been on the board since 2019.

PLANNERS ENDORSE GLASER ‘SPECIFIC PLAN’

In a 4-2 vote, the planning commission moved forward with a review of a “Specific Plan” subdivision application for a 97-acre parcel at the corner of Mountain View and Old Stage roads, finding that a “substantial public benefit” could result from the expedited construction of roughly 100 new homes.

Under the plan, landowners

Jack and Caitlin Glaser would convey about 53 acres of open space to the town, preserving operations of the neighboring Windswept Farm. The planning commission also set up an advisory committee to create detailed plans for the subdivision to present for planning commission approval in the spring.

If the planning commission approves, the plan would then go to the selectboard and possibly the development review board for final permit approval.

REPORT PREDICTS CAPACITY PROBLEM AT ALLEN BROOK SCHOOL

A Champlain Valley School District demographic study confirmed concerns that many

residents have expressed in residential subdivision approval hearings: New home construction is on pace to overwhelm capacity at Allen Brook School over the next half-decade, likely requiring an addition to Williston’s K-2 building.

The CVSD study estimates ABS enrollment will jump by 55 students in the next five years. But the building is already at capacity, according to school officials, who had already hired an architect to study how to add learning space there.

“We already have a problem in that building,” the district’s chief operating officer, Jeanne Jensen, said. “There is no way it’s going to take another (55) kids.”

The study looked at subdivision applications and predicted

753 new homes in Williston in the next 10 years.

MEGAN NICK BRINGS HOME OLYMPIC MEDAL

After honing her gymnastics skills as a youth at Williston’s Green Mountain Training Center, Megan Nick, a native of Shelburne, traveled to the Beijing Winter Olympics and captured a bronze medal in the freestyle skiing discipline of aerials.

Fans attended a watch party of the event at the training center, where Nick would later bring the medal for a celebration.

“I was just trying to be extremely present and grateful that I was even there,” said Nick, 25, a graduate of Champlain Valley High School. “No expectations — only wanting to compete the way that I’ve been training.”

Nick’s father, Jeff Nick, one of Williston’s leading commercial land developers, was forced to stay home and watch on TV instead of traveling to China for the event due to pandemic travel restrictions.

“It was quite a thrill,” he said.

Megan Nick

TOWN TACKLES

VILLAGE REZONING

Williston town planners initiated a zoning rewrite for Williston’s village district.

The new rules are aimed at allowing denser residential development and lifting restrictions on the type and size of businesses allowed. Planners hope the rules will spur the redevelopment of existing buildings to bring new life to the historic district.

“We field calls from entrepreneurs all the time saying ‘Hey I want to put this use in this space,’ and it makes total sense, but it’s not allowed in the village. That’s why we’re working on the amendment,” said Town Planner Emily Heymann, who led a walking tour of the village in July to further explain the initiative.

ORTHODONTIST PRACTICE BUYS

VILLAGE LANDMARK

The 180-year-old brick house that was once a Williston Village

café was sold to Associates in Orthodontics.

It is the fifth location for the practice. Renovations of the building, which sits next to the Old Brick Church and across from Town Hall, continued throughout the year, including roof and chimney removal and window replacement.

“The outside will be essentially the same. The intent is not to make any major alterations, preserving the character of the property,” said orthodontist Jeff Blasius.

SCHOOL DISTRICT ABSORBS LEADERSHIP EXODUS

A total of ten Champlain Valley School District administrative leaders left their positions in a combination of retirements, resignations and career advancement opportunities. Some community members blamed Superintendent Rene Sanchez, who was in his first year leading the district in 2022, for the departures.

“This is unprecedented and serves as a red flag that something is wrong,” said Jodi Sanders, a music teacher and parent in the district.

School board chair Angela Arsenault said Sanchez “has the board’s full support” and the district acted quickly to fill the vacant positions, which included athletic director, chief operating officer, director of early education and two building principals.

MCCULLOUGH STEPS AWAY FROM LEGISLATURE

mittee working on environmental issues. McCullough said he welcomed “new blood and young approaches to things … There are too many old, white men in the Legislature.”

Angela Arsenault — a Democrat like McCullough — was elected in November to succeed McCullough.

EXIT 12-AREA CONSTRUCTION KICKS INTO HIGH GEAR

Crews working for the State of Vermont broke ground on a trio of projects around the Exit 12 interchange of Interstate 89.

Clearing began just south of the interstate for a 142-space park-and-ride co-located with a new Vermont State Police barracks. Across Route 2A, a rec path from Hurricane Drive into Taft Corners has taken shape.

L.L. BEAN, JERSEY MIKE’S OPEN; FRIENDLY’S CLOSES

Finney Crossing matures as a commercial hub with the opening of L.L. Bean and Jersey Mike’s in the plaza adjacent to Healthy Living. Along with the relocation of Men’s Warehouse and the opening of the new Railroad & Main restaurant and Turner Toys, the commercial space in the mixed-use neighborhood is nearly at capacity.

The L.L. Bean store is a relocation of the store that opened in Burlington nearly eight years prior.

Across Route 2, in another change to the commercial landscape of Taft Corners, Friendly’s restaurant closed its doors. The restaurant was one of the first national chains to invest in Williston, opening at the corner of Routes 2 and 2A in the mid-1980s.

Jim McCullough announced his retirement after 20 years representing Williston in the Vermont House of Representatives.

McCullough, 77, the founder of the Catamount Outdoor Family Center, spent the majority of his legislative career on the House Natural Resources Com-

The State Police barracks will replace the existing barracks on the north side of the interchange. It will operate 24/7 and will include an emergency command center, a 911 call center, two jail cells and a Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department office.

‘TIS THE SEASON TO ADD A LITTLE...

SARAH GEORGE HOLDS OFF TED KENNEY FOR STATE’S ATTORNEY

Williston resident and incumbent Chittenden County State’s Attorney beat Williston selectboard member Ted Kenney for the

Jim McCullough

Democratic nomination as the county’s top criminal prosecutor. With no Republican challenger, George went on to win the general election and reclaim her position.

Kenney’s campaign spoke to frustration from some in law enforcement and business owners who blame George’s efforts to dismantle inequities in the criminal justice system on increasing crime. But a majority of voters backed George, who pledged to continue with a restorative rather than punitive approach to criminal justice.

“Our campaign won in every single district in this county,” she said. “This, to me, is an incredibly resounding endorsement of the work we have been doing and the work that the community wants us to continue doing.”

Also in the Democratic primary, Williston’s Charity Clark won the nomination for attorney general then went on to win the position in the general election to become the first woman in Vermont history elected to the post.

VOTERS SUPPORT COUNTY INITIATIVES

Williston voters joined their counterparts in Essex, Essex Junction, Shelburne and South Burlington to become a founding member of the Chittenden County Communications Union District. The new government entity will work to build out high-speed internet infrastructure with a goal of connecting all addresses in the county.

Other municipalities can now join the district with a vote of their selectboard or city council.

Williston voters also overwhelmingly approved the Chittenden Solid Waste District’s plan to build a new recycling center on Redmond Road — joining voters countywide.

The new center will automate sorting and increase capacity. It is expected to come online in 2025.

REDHAWKS CAPTURE STATE FOOTBALL TITLE

Champlain Valley Union High School won its first-ever football state champion-

ship, defeating Middlebury with a last-second goal-line stand.

The win culminated a multi-year march to the top of Vermont’s Division I, led by coach Rahn Fleming. CVU missed the playoffs in 2018 and 2019, then advanced to the championship game in both 2020 and 2021. Last year, the Redhawks lost in the final seconds to Essex.

“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,” Fleming said after the win.

DOG RESCUE PERMIT DENIED

The development review board denied a permit for Vermont English Bulldog Rescue to continue operating at the home on Lamplite Lane where it has rescued and rehomed dogs for the past 12 years.

Lamplite Lane neighbors spoke out against the operation, saying it has grown too big, loud and traffic-inducing to continue as is. Owner Dawna Pederzani said she is looking for commercial property to relocate to, but is not sure the nonprofit can afford it. She also may modify operations and resubmit a permit application.

“We are hoping there is a solution,” she said. “I don’t know if there is.”

The CVU football team and its supporters celebrate its first-ever state title in Rutland in November.

COURTESY PHOTO BY PAUL LAMONTAGNE/VTSPORTSIMAGES.COM

College rankings do students a disservice

BY ALEX YIN AND WILLIAM FALLS

The recent announcement that some prominent universities will no longer contribute to US News Best Colleges has once again brought the issue of college rankings into the spotlight.

In the age of online ratings, it is natural for us as consumers to want to be informed about the quality of a good or service. Universities are no exception. US News rankings have assumed the role of ultimate authority regarding the quality of our nation’s colleges and universities, providing “expert advice, rankings, and data to help you navigate your education journey and find the best college for you.”

But now, some of those colleges and universities are questioning whether US News rankings are truly serving the best interests of their institutions and students.

Unlike online ratings, which reflect the opinions of purchasers and

users, the US News rankings are a set of measures that US News has determined quantify the best colleges and universities in America. These measures include 17 indicators, such as graduation rates, class size, faculty compensation, and SAT and ACT scores of entering students.

While we agree these measures are valuable, it is important to recognize that relying on a limited and common set of qualities to rank universities imagines that universities are monoliths striving to be the same, and that the students and communities they serve are also monolithic.

Moreover, it assumes that other qualities that are not part of the rankings — such as student learning, student participation in internships and research, student engagement in the community, the success of graduates in entering a career or graduate school, etc. — are unimportant. Thus, the rankings ignore the fact that colleges and universities are different for a purpose.

The beauty and strength of

American higher education is its diversity and ability to serve a broad range of learners. Each institution serves its students and community in unique ways.

For students and families, focusing on US News rankings does not allow for the appreciation or valuation of these differences. By focusing on the rankings, families may lose their focus on finding an institution that best meets their student’s needs, goals and aspirations.

For example, one student may be looking for an institution that integrates a liberal arts curriculum with a major in a professional field such as engineering, business or nursing. Another may prefer a school in a city that offers internship opportunities with Fortune 500 companies. These are the kinds of nuances that are lost in the rankings.

Which university to attend is

one of the most important decisions a student and family can make, and that decision must be a well-informed one. So, what is to be used in place of US News and World Report’s rankings?

Our advice to students and families is to consider the qualities of a university that are important to you, not those selected by US News. Are you concerned about the breadth of offerings (with well-defined learning outcomes)? Class size? A four-year graduation rate? Cost of attendance? Student participation in internships or research? Student engagement in the community? Postgraduation earnings?

Data for all of these are available from several sources, including the universities themselves. Two other useful sources of data are the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard and College Navigator,

which provide data about universities as a whole as well as specific fields of study within those universities.

As the world continues to move toward a knowledge economy in which jobs of the future are not yet defined, we need to remind ourselves that higher education is truly about developing lifelong learners to ensure a vibrant democracy. This is an outcome that should provide a return on investment not only from a financial point of view, but from a social good perspective as well. And this is something that rankings like those from US News and World Report can never capture.

Alex Yin is director of institutional research and assessment at the University of Vermont. William Falls is dean of the college of arts and sciences.

can verify the letter’s author.

Christmas tree pickup set for Jan. 7

The annual Williston Scout Troop 692 Christmas tree pickup will take place Saturday, Jan. 7. Below is a summary of areas and neighborhoods where Scouts plan to collect trees for recycling or composting. If you live elsewhere and would like a pickup, call Julia Nesbit at (802) 878-8520 or email jnesbit938@gmail.com.

Eastview Circle, Stirrup Circle, Bittersweet Circle, Hillside

Drive, Sharon Drive, Meadowrun Road, Lamplite Lane, Finney Crossing, Isham Circle, Brennan Woods, Ledgewood Drive, Southridge, Pleasant Acres, Wildflower Circle, Southfield Drive, Village Grove, Lefebvre Lane, Fairway Drive, Creek’s Edge Drive, Keystone Drive, Hillcrest Lane, Michael Lane and Sunrise Drive. Place your tree curbside (not in the road) by 8 a.m. on Jan. 7. At

least a $10 donation in an envelope tied to the tree is requested. Donated money funds troop activities and community service projects.

Checks made out to Williston Troop 692 are preferred. Or donate online at www.williston692. mytroop.us.

All trees are recycled for fuel and/or composted based on the needs of Chittenden Solid Waste District.

Giving the gift of cozy toes

Thanks to generous donors in our community, the eighth annual Socks for Seniors drive sponsored by the Williston Observer provided hundreds of new warm socks to area nursing homes and nonprofit organizations this year. The staff at these residences have said how meaningful this annual holiday gift is to the people they care for.

Appreciation is due to the Williston Coffee Shop and Willis ton Optometry for generously hosting drop-off locations. Thanks also to the Champlain Valley Roadrunners Club for its donations and to member Jim McMillan, who provided help with delivering socks to recipient organizations.

Happy New Year… happy new

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

Mini

Marvelous Pinball Machines

With flashing lights, loud dinging sounds and often a flurry of activity around them, pinball machines have been a form of entertainment for many years. Still celebrated through festivals, museums and even a world championship, pinball brings lots of people together in the name of fun.

The Mini Page takes a look at pinball machines this week.

What is pinball?

Pinball is an arcade game where players try to maneuver a metal ball to a specific target in a glass-covered case of a machine. Players try to score as many points as possible by getting bonuses and keeping their ball “live,” or on the playing field, as long as possible.

Pinball became quite popular during the Great Depression (1929-1939) for people looking for inexpensive entertainment.

However, playing pinball was not allowed in parts of the U.S. in the 1940s through the 1970s because it was considered a form of gambling, or a game of chance. People who agreed with the ban said that pinball didn’t require any skill.

A famous pinball player named Roger

Sharpe disagreed with that and showed the New York City Council that pinball was a game of skill. They agreed with him after he demonstrated his skills in front of them. The ban was lifted in New York City in 1976.

How it works

To play pinball, a player presses a button that engages a flipper to hit a ball in the machine. The ball rolls around the glassencased surface, hitting bumpers, targets, lights and even ramps, which all add to or subtract from the player’s score. The goal is to get the highest score possible.

Next Week: A 2023 calendar for kids

Pinball Hall of Fame

In Las Vegas, a 25,000-square-foot building called the Pinball Hall of Fame (PHoF) is home to lots of pinball machines, both new and old. This place also serves as a pinball museum. People are allowed to play pinball machines that have been restored. Older pinball machines have a cost of 25 cents to play, and newer ones sometimes cost 50 cents.

The Pinball Hall of Fame is dedicated to restoration and sharing the love of the games with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Many people believe that pinball brings families and generations closer because they enjoy the game together.

Today

Many large pinball manufacturers closed in the 1990s, so smaller independent manufacturers began popping up in the 2000s in an effort to keep pinball machines in restaurants and arcades.

Resources

On the Web:

At the library:

“Fun is mandatory at the Pinball Hall of Fame, and it’s something you’ll leave with,” the museum’s website says. “Look at people playing at the PHoF; they’re cheering, jumping up and down, laughing. They’re having fun.” Words that remind us of pinball machines are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

BUMPER, FAMILY, FLIPPER, FUN, GAMBLING, GAME, HALL OF FAME, HISTORY, LAS VEGAS, LIGHTS, MACHINE,

Founded by Betty Debnam

2022

photo by Trontnort

photo by Steve Jurvetson

This photo offers a look at the inside of a pinball machine, which includes a lot of wiring.

photo by Hollie Westring

photo by Debbie R.

or a game of chance. People who agreed with the ban said that pinball didn’t require any skill.

A famous pinball player named Roger

Try ’n’ Find

Words that remind us of pinball machines are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:

BUMPER, FAMILY, FLIPPER, FUN, GAMBLING, GAME, HALL OF FAME, HISTORY, LAS VEGAS, LIGHTS, MACHINE, MUSEUM, PINBALL, RAMP, SCORE, SKILL, SOUNDS, TARGET.

Cook’s Corner Energy Snack Mix

You’ll need:

• 1 cup chopped dates

• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped

• 1 cup dark chocolate yogurt raisins

• 1 cup sunflower seeds

What to do: 1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped

Mini Jokes

Paul: What do you say when you see someone on New Year’s Day? Peggy: I haven’t seen you since last year!

Eco Note

Increased activity at Ecuador’s Cotopaxi volcano prompted officials to issue a yellow alert and suspend access to the conical, snowcapped mountain’s slopes. Scientists say steam clouds rising above the summit have been the result of moisture from recent precipitation seeping into the hot interior of the mountain. The last major eruption of the volcano occurred on June 26, 1877. In 2015, Cotopaxi showed signs of renewed activity but did not erupt.

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

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

BY DAN THOMPSON

Rossignoli

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

Y V Y V S L G A P I R K S R D A R E P M U B P G Z L S L G E M A F F O L L A H J J Y T M

Savvy Senior

Simple home safety solutions for aging-in-place

Dear Savvy Senior, Falls and fires are the two things I worry most about for my elderly father who lives alone. Do you have any suggestions on what we can do to help keep him safe, and keep an eye on him from afar?

Concerned Daughter

Dear Concerned,

Of course! There are a number of small adjustments and modifications you can make to your dad’s home to help protect him from falls and fires, both of which cause thousands of injuries and deaths each year. Here are some tips to get you started.

Eliminate tripping hazards: Since falls are the leading cause of home injury among seniors, a good place to start is to pack away your dad’s throw rugs, which are common tripping hazards, or use carpet tacks or double-sided tape to secure them. You may also need to adjust your dad’s furniture so there are clear pathways to walk through, and position any electrical or phone cords along walls and out of the way.

For hardwood steps, consider attaching a nonslip tread to each

one to provide traction and help him see the edge. And for added protection in the bathroom, buy some nonskid rugs for the floors and use adhesive nonslip treads or a mat with rubber suction inside his tub or shower stall.

Improve his lighting: Good lighting is essential for safe agingin-place, so check the wattage ratings on your dad’s lamps and light fixtures, and install the brightest bulbs allowed, and add supplementary lighting if necessary.

You should also purchase some dusk to dawn nightlights for the bathroom and in the hallways that light up when the sun goes down. And mount some motion sensor lights outside the front and back doors and in the driveway that automatically come on when he comes and goes after dark.

Get grab bars: These can significantly reduce his risk of bathroom falls. Install them where he enters the shower or tub and on a wall inside the stall, but don’t use grab bars that attach with suction. Instead, have wall-mounted bars put in by someone who can affix them to the wall studs. It’s also best to choose bars whose surfaces are slightly textured and easier to grip.

We understand that the loss of a loved one is often keenly felt around the holidays.

If you, or someone you know is struggling, please give us a call. We’ll gladly send you a pamphlet which offers encouragement and various coping methods.

By Jim Miller

Ensure railings are stable: Wherever he has steps — stairways, entryways or basements — he needs sturdy railings. Ideally, they should be on both sides of the steps.

Prevent cooking fires: There are several affordable

products you can purchase to help your dad prevent home cooking fires, like BurnerAlert discs that attach to a stove’s knob and will continuously blink or beep after the stove has been in use for a pre-set amount of time, and Ome smart knobs that can control a stove’s heating settings from an app. Or you can invest in a more expensive iGuardStove sensor that shuts the stove off when it doesn’t detect motion for five minutes.

Install smoke alarms: Install a smart smoke alarm in your dad’s house (buy one for each floor) that will alert him when smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. These smart devices will also send alerts to your phone to let you know when a problem is detected. Google Nest and First Alert both make smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Add fire extinguishers: Get portable multipurpose fire extin-

guishers for each level of your dad’s house and in the garage.

Consider a medical alert: To ensure your dad’s safety and provide you some peace of mind, consider getting him a medical alert device that comes with a wearable SOS button that would allow him to call for help if he were to fall or need assistance.

For more tips, get a copy of AARP’s “HomeFit Guide” (see www.AARP.org/HomeFit), which has more than 100 aging-in-place suggestions that can help make your dad’s home safer and easier to live in.

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.

CROSSWORD

TODAY’S HISTORY

• In 1170, Thomas Becket, the archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered.

• In 1890, U.S. Army troops massacred an estimated 300 Lakota Indian men, women and children near Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota. In 1940, Germany dropped hundreds of incendiary bombs on London.

• In 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created.

TODAY’S FACT:

• OSHA imposed the largest fine in agency history on Oct. 30, 2009, assessing $87 million in penalties against oil company BP. A 2005 explosion at the company’s refinery in Texas killed 15 workers. and injured 170.

OBITUARIES

RENÉ P PROVENCHER

René P Provencher of Williston Vermont passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday December 8, 2022, at the McClure Miller Respite House. René was born in Burlington Vermont to Noé and Bertha Provencher on August 14, 1948.

René grew up relishing time spent outdoors and cultivating an appreciation for nature. He enjoyed exploring the banks of the Winooski River, fishing in Muddy Brook, camping, foraging, and playing with his siblings and close friends. He attended Rice Memorial High School and

enlisted in the Navy between junior and senior year of high school. After graduating from Rice, René was in the Navy, and then the Naval reserves, and traveled to the Caribbean during his tenure. He also apprenticed with his father, who was an upholsterer and learned the craft of upholstery, which he perfected over a 50-plus year career in a business run out of his own home.

He married Nancy Lavallee (d. 1996) in 1970 and moved to Williston where they built a home and raised a daughter. René and Nancy homesteaded for many years and raised much of the food they ate.

He also enjoyed wild crafting for mushrooms, wild leeks and herbs in the fields and woods.

He spent many hunting seasons with close friends at deer camp in Eden and enjoyed many deep-sea fishing adventures with close friends as well. In his later years René loved playing cards and watching birds at his feeder — always remembering suet for the woodpeckers all winter.

He leaves behind daughter Paula Rupp, brother Art Provencher, sister Theresa Menze, sister Laura Bousquet, granddaughter Noelani Rupp, best friend Eugene LaBounty, and 9 nieces and nephews, as well as numerous great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved feline companion, Miss Kitty.

He was predeceased by his

wife, Nancy and his brother John Provencher and son in law John Rupp.

The family expresses deep appreciation for the love, skill, compassion and care shown by the team at the McClure Miller Respite House where René spent his final days.

Per René’s request, his ashes will be spread along the banks of the Winooski River in the springtime following a Celebration of Life with close friends and family. Memorial contributions in René’s memory may be made to American Cancer Society or McClure Miller Respite House. The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.

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.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The department wishes everyone a Happy New Year. We hope that your holidays were filled with joy and happiness and the New Year brings you and your family all the best. We hope that you and your family will take advantage of the great recreation opportunities in Williston from programs, camps, events and community parks in the New Year.

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST WINNERS

Thank you to everyone in the community who went out to view and vote for this year’s Holiday Decorating Contest entrants. There were 40 responses on the voting form. Winners are: Tradi-

Williston Recreation & Parks

tional/Refined Category: 643 Metcalf Drive; Fun/Festive Category: 55 Southfield Drive; Multi-Family Category: 88 Holland Lane.

Thank you to all those who registered. And thanks to the great sponsors that provided prizes: the Williston Observer, Healthy Living Market, Adams Farm Market, Vermont Meat and Seafood, Williston Coffee Shop and Shaw’s.

ICE RINK

The Ice Rink at Village Community Park is up. We are waiting for the ice to freeze to open it up for use. Be sure to check the Recreation website and Recreation Facebook page for updates on when it is open and closed.

NEW ONLINE PROGRAMS

There are a series of new programs now available at www.willistonrec.org under the “Home Programs to Enjoy!” tab. There are programs on national park tours, Vermont State Parks, the Green Mountain Club, the Chittenden Solid Waste District

and other fun things. Enjoy the videos in each category from home.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

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.

LEARN TO SKI/RIDE Registration now for the Learn to Ski/ Ride Program for grades K-8. The program starts on Jan. 11 for grades 1-8 and Jan. 18 for Kindergarten. Deadline to register is Jan. 4.

ADULT PROGRAMS

DOG THERAPY TRAINING

The Therapy Dog Training program starting Jan. 9 still has spots available. Mondays, Jan. 9-Feb. 20, 7:30-8:30 a.m. Gold Star Training.

BOXING INTRO

An eight-week introduction to the fundamentals of boxing — for fun, fitness, and self-defense. We’ll focus on learning footwork, defense and proper punching mechanics through a variety of safe, fun drills. Tuesday, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 6:30-7:30 p.m. ONTA Studio

TAI CHI INTRO

Come strengthen your body, regulate and build physical energy, and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Thursdays, Jan. 12-March 2, 6-7 p.m. ONTA Studio

SANGHA STUDIO YOGA PASS

The five-class pass allows you to donate to the studio and receive five classes for $50 or $10 per class. At Sangha Studio, one of the core values is accessibility. We want everyone to practice yoga no matter what. Visit the Recreation website for link to purchase the pass.

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/

https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

Champlain Community Services, Inc.

Why not have a job you love?

OBITUARIES

LAURENT R. LANEUVILLE

Laurent R. Laneuville passed away in Essex Junction, Vermont on December 18, 2022.

Larry was born July 15, 1938 in St. Elie d’Orford, Sherbrooke,

Quebec, Canada, to the late Elphege and Sara (Deschamps) Laneuville.

In 1956 he moved to Vermont and worked on dairy farms for several years before working for Agro Automation installing International Harvestore silos. Eventually Larry went into business for himself. On September 5, 1959 he married Helena Boutin and moved to Williston where they raised their family. As a general con-

tractor, Master Plumber and Journeyman Electrician Larry built a number of homes, barns and a sugar house in Vermont. He was a member of the Vermont Licensed Plumbers Association, Inc.

For many years Larry was active in his church, the Knights of Columbus Council 2946 in Essex, and Alcoholics Anonymous, serving on various boards and in leadership positions. He was an active volunteer of the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association and enjoyed working at the maple products booth at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Jct., at the Big E in Springfield, MA and The Vermont Maple Festival in St Albans. Larry had a penchant for Hawaiian and colorful shirts, and was well-known for his vast array of ties. On August 12, 2000, Larry married Christiane Lassonde and moved to Essex; he and Chris became snowbirds, spending their winters in Haines City, FL.

husband, Jean-Eudes Fleurant; and Cecile and Doris Laneuville; and his brothers Raymond, Leo, and Andre Laneuville; and sisters-in-law Therese Laneuville, Françoise Turner and her husband, Gary; Louise Schwabe and her husband, Don; Denyse Labrie; Janine Bilodeau and her husband, Denis; and Roxanne Shull and her husband, David; and brother-in-law Serge Lassonde and his partner, Kate Sherwood, and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves many cherished members of the Boutin family.

Larry was predeceased by his first wife, Helena (Boutin)

Laneuville, in 1999; his sisters, Roseanne Laneuville and Rachel Lebrun; and his brothers Benoit and Real Laneuville. He was also predeceased by his motherin-law, Angeline Lassonde; his brother-in-law, Jean-Paul Lebrun; and sister-in-law, Lucille Laneuville.

Many thanks to the team from Bayada for the amazing hospice care Larry received in his final months. Their nurturing care helped us all tremendously during his final days.

Services will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

Jeweler’s Tools, Morrisville, VT

- Online Mon., Jan. 9 @ 10AM

Antiques & Household, Hardwick, VT

- Online Tues., Jan. 10 @ 10AM

Foreclosure: Comm. Condos, Woodstock, VT - Jan. 10 @ 11AM

Contractors Tools, Richmond, VTOnline Mon., Jan. 16 @ 10AM

Farm Equip. & Tools, Morrisville, VT

- Simulcast Wed., Jan. 18 @ 10AM

Recording Studio Equip., Bath, NH - Online Tues., Jan. 24 @ 10AM

Larry is survived by his wife, Chris; his daughters, Susan Gill and her partner, Jake Jacobson; Mae Mayville and her husband, Bill; Lynne Moon and her husband, Steve; and Kara Cleaver. He also leaves six grandchildren: Luke Mayville and his wife, Darby; Aubrey Moon and her fiancé, Eli Conwell; Elizabeth Gill; Hayley Wood and her husband, Nick; Nicholas Cleaver; and Nolan Cleaver; and two great-grandchildren: Alec and Leah Mayville. He is also survived by his sisters Jeanne and her husband, Real Beaulieu; Yvette and her

CLASSIFIEDS

A remote option to participate using the online platform zoom is available using the following web address: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81716692120.

The zoom meeting can also be accessed by calling 1-646-558-8656 and entering the meeting ID 817-1669-2120.

The proposed operating budget provides for expenses of $14,005,454.

This represents a 6.5% increase over the current fiscal year. The funds are used to provide municipal services including, but not limited to: Police, Fire, Highway, Library, Recreation & Parks, Planning & Zoning and General Administration.

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

building, park, and road improvements and equipment purchase and replacement. Potential revenue sources include property taxes, impact fees, and grants. For next fiscal year, the total proposed expenditure for capital projects and equipment funded from property taxes, fund balance, and other revenue sources is $838,103.

Copies of the proposed operating and capital budgets are available for review at the Town Hall. Summaries are also available for review on the Town’s website https://www.town.williston.vt.us/budget.

Dated at the Town of Williston, Vermont this 12th day of December 2022.

-Erik Wells, Town Manager

Contact Brian Bittner 802-272-7527 bittnerantiques@gmail.com www.bittnerantiques.com

802-489-5210 info@bittnerantiques.com

From

This home on Southfield Drive was the winning entry in this year’s Holiday Decorating Contest, organized by the Williston Recreation and Parks Department. The home won in the Fun/Festive category in online judging by Williston residents. The home at 643 Metcalf Drive won the Traditional/Refined category and the home at 88 Holland Lane won the Multi-Family category.

OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO