BY JASON STARR Observer staff
The Williston Planning Commission is ready to hold a public hearing on land use regulation changes specific to the 97-acre Glaser parcel at the corner of Old Stage and Mountain View roads that would enable a 109-home subdivision.
Landowners Jack and Caitlin Glaser applied for the subdivision under the town’s rarely used “specific plan” process that requires a
multi-tiered review by a subcommittee of the planning commission, the full planning commission, the selectboard and finally the development review board. An approval would create site-specific zoning rules and accelerate the pace of construction beyond the constraints of the growth management caps the town currently has in place. In return, the Glasers pledge to give 53 acres to the town, including about 15 acres fronting Mountain View Road, that preserves views of the mountains to the east.
The planning commission voted 4-2 on Tuesday to move the application along for a public hearing, which is planned for mid-July. The
see GLASER page 5
A pool received the most requests in a survey of Williston residents that asked what recreational elements they would like to have in a future community center.
COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF WILLISTON
It comes as no surprise that a community pool tops the list of recreational elements Williston residents would like included in a future community center.
That goal, long envisioned by community leaders, was evident in the Community Center Scoping and Library Assessment Steering Committee’s initial survey of res-
idents this spring. The committee conducted surveys and interviews in March and April and summarized its findings in a report delivered to town staff in May.
Of the roughly 270 respondents, about half requested a community pool. Other elements — such as fitness space, an ice rink, a walking track, turf and tennis courts — received less than 25 requests each. In addition to recreational elements, the committee organized responses in other categories, including “gathering spaces” where a kitchen was the top request; “centers” where a senior center was the top request; “art and technolo-
gy” where a makerspace was the top request; and “library” where more library space was the top request.
Community center prioritization survey available online at www.willistoncommunity.com.
Paper copies available at Town Hall, the library and the REC Zone.
“People want an inter-generational community space where residents can meet and gather … as well as an expanded library,” the report states.
Simultaneous to the committee’s survey, the Montpelier-based architectural company Black River Design created preliminary plans for a library expansion on the Town Green.
“The desire for a community center and recreation space has been a longtime goal of the town,” Town Manager Erik Wells said. “Our library is a tremendous asset and serves as a community hub that is facing space challenges for the future. The goal of this project is to determine a pathway forward for these community spaces.”
The committee’s report
see COMMUNITY page 24
THE MONEY YOU NEED, WHENEVER YOU NEED IT.
• Alexander Waskow bought a home on Mountain View Road from Nguyen Nguyen for $785,000.
• Abdullah Nassiri bought a condominium on Madison Drive from Arthur Limacher for $360,000.
• Benjamin Pratt bought a home on 1.3 acres on Ledgewood Drive from Mark Harvie for $1.76 million.
• Brian Dykstra bought a condominium on Kadence Circle from NorthridgeWilliston LLC for $749,900.
• William Lestage bought a home on Jakes Way from Shawn Tkach for $375,000.
• Alexander Tower bought a condominium on Bittersweet Circle from Randall Bickford for $447,500.
• Cynthia Breton bought a condominium on Commons Road from the Douglas L. White Trust for $425,000.
• Cyrus Dudgeon bought a home on Morgan Parkway from Pierre Desjardins for $470,000.
• Alexandra Lenes bought a home on 22
acres on Van Sicklen Road from Jessica Pinnell for $338,353.
• Joerg Bernhard bought a condominium on Stillwater Lane from Rae Bunce for $420,000.
• Richard Farnham bought a condominium on Whitewater Circle from Charles Lord for $595,000.
• Joseph Yandow bought a mobile home on Middlewood Road from the Williston Woods Homeowners Association for $10,000.
• Benjamin Chater bought a condominium on Bittersweet Circle from Scott Benoit for $475,000.
• The Jeffrey Martin Trust bought a third of an acre of open land on Caroline Court from Adams Real Properties LLC for $179,000.
Transfers sponsored by
Affordable housing means just that, housing that almost anyone can afford. And yet, despite a growing community, Williston is failing to provide for some of its residents.
On Wednesday, May 24, the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library held a timely event to discuss affordable housing in Williston. The event was led by Cristalee McSweeney, the executive director of the Williston Community Justice Center. The discussion was based around the New York Times best selling book “Evicted” by Matthew Desmond.
While not required for the discussion itself, it was suggested reading and is currently available at the library.
To start the event, McSweeney read a letter she had received from a Williston community member. The woman who wrote it asked to remain anonymous, citing fear of the stigma surrounding homelessness.
She shared that she is a full-time nurse at the age of 52, making over $70,000 a
year, and she has been homeless for the last seven and a half months. She was forced to leave the rental she had lived in for years because her landlord decided to capitalize on the market and sell. She was given 60 days to vacate, and she has yet to find a new apartment, despite numerous applications.
She has been forced to couch surf, sleep in her car and shower at a gym.
Most landlords in the area require at least a 720 credit score or proof that applicants make at least three times the renting price in their monthly income.
Vladi Moore, another panel speaker, shared his own experience with trying to find housing in Williston in the past few years. Despite hoping to buy a house in the area for him and his family, he was forced to start renting due to high asking prices. He then had to to find new hous -
Once the Civil War was over, mothers and wives began tending to the graves of those they had lost, leading to the first official Decoration Day in May of 1868. They decorated the graves with flowers and care, to show respect to those who had died. What once was Decoration Day has now become Memorial Day, a day to honor all fallen American troops, not just those from the Civil War.
The Rotary Club of Williston-Richmond led an event last Monday in the small park between the Williston Town Hall and the
Town Hall Annex to commemorate this day.
Rotary President Sally Stockwell-Metro said the club started Memorial Day and Veterans Day events two years ago after noticing that the town had not had public observances of the holidays “in many years.”
The goal was also to recognize the park itself, which houses bricks with dedications to service members and a star with the names of those from Williston who died serving in foreign wars.
The event began with piobaireachd (the playing of pipes) from Hazen Metro of the Sergeant Catamount Pipe Band, before moving into the welcome and invocation from Stockwell-Metro and Reverend Katelyn B. Macrae of the Richmond Congregational Church.
Longtime Vermont resident (but
new to Williston) Major Patrick “Gene” Enriquez with the Vermont National Guard was the next to speak.
“Service and sacrifice are intertwined,” he said. “You can’t have one without the other.”
He is a first-generation American and has served multiple tours in different countries. He shared that since World War I, almost 300 men and women from Chittenden County, some from Williston, have died or gone missing during their service.
“Recognize that our fellow Americans owe so much to those who will never come home,” he said.
His speech continued with the general theme of the world being divided, but united in our love and debt to the fallen.
Next to speak was Phil Stevens, the secretary of the Williston-Rich-
mond Rotary Club, who read the names of those who had bricks dedicated to them.
“They have given and we must have gratitude,” Stevens said.
To wrap up the event, there was
a reading of the names of deceased veterans and first-responders before another playing of pipes from Metro and “Taps” by Luke Buehler, a ninth-grade student from CVU.
On Saturday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Gardener’s Supply will host a “Plastic Pot Take Back Day” at its Williston and other garden center locations.
Black plastic pots cannot currently be recycled through the Chittenden Solid Waste District. These and any other color pots labelled No. 2 and No. 5 can be dropped off for recycling at Gardener’s Supply.
Audubon Vermont, the Catamount Community Forest Management Committee and the Green Mountain Audubon Society collaborated on a bird banding demonstration and bird walk at the Catamount Community Forest on Saturday.
During the event, about 30 participants observed Audubon biologist Mark LaBarr retrieving birds from nets he had set up just after sunrise. LaBarr then weighed, took measurements and banded each bird, explaining how the data collected is used to track bird movements and to support efforts to preserve avian species and their habitats.
Participants then proceeded on a walk along Catamount trails, observing and listening to a diversity of bird species.
Another Catamount birding event is set for June 22, from 6-8 p.m.
Pots must be separated into groups: No. 2 plastics in one group and No. 5 plastics in another. Pots should be empty with any tags or staples removed.
Do you have a child car seat in your car? Do you have a smartphone? Come be a part of a study sponsored by Safe Kids Vermont.
Safe Kids is looking for participants to see if virtual car seat technicians are as effective as in-person technicians. Sign up for a car seat check and fill out surveys to receive a $50 Amazon gift card. Participants will be asked to complete a short follow-up appointment four months later for another $50 Amazon Gift Card.
The event is Tuesday, June 13 from 9 a.m.-noon at Richmond Rescue, 216 Railroad St., in Richmond. Sign up at https://www. signupgenius.com/go/4090945ADAC2BA3F94-richmond1.
E-mail VTSafeKids@UVMHealth.org with any questions.
Firefighters respond to a camper fire on Fay Lane last Monday.
Two Williston firefighters were injured while extinguishing a vehicle fire last Monday afternoon, May 29. The vehicle, located on Fay Lane, was a camper that was being used as a residence, according to Williston Fire Department spokesman Prescott Nadeau.
“The home experienced significant damage rendering it unlivable,” Nadeau wrote in a news release. “The American Red Cross is assisting the occupants as they deal with the loss of their home and belongings.”
The firefighters received non-life-threatening injuries and did not require transport to the hospital, according to the news release. When searching for potential victims, they were injured when they fell through the floor of the camper, temporarily becoming trapped. They were able to extricate themselves.
No other injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation but is not considered suspicious, according to Nadeau.
Williston elementary school students have a lesson on flowers last week presented by the volunteer-led Four Winds Nature Program.
The volunteer-led Four Winds Nature Program at Williston’s public schools wrapped up its year last week with a lesson on flowers. The program is for children in kindergarten through fourth grade, with adult volunteers leading hands-on lessons about the natural world.
Adults looking to volunteer to be part of the program can email wsdfourwinds@cvsdvt.org or visit https://sites.google.com/cvsdvt. org/willistonfourwinds/home.
This spring, with the help of Williston parent and photographer Andy Duback, fourth-graders on Williston Central School’s Mosaic team took part in a project that explored Williston’s past and present.
First, students conducted and filmed interviews with eight longtime residents of Williston. Then, Duback and the students observed
see AROUND TOWN page 5
Adding to the fun of the annual Deb Beckett Memorial 5K on Saturday, July 1, will be a Kids Run for children ages 4-12 on an approximately half-mile course.
“I have been one of the Williston Mini Milers coaches for the past two years, and that program has seen a large increase in the number of kids participating from one year to the next,” said organizer Lauren Miles. “We are hoping to continue the momentum the program has generated around health and fitness in our community by adding a kids run to the race lineup for this year. We are excited about the event and hope to have a good turnout of kids.”
Children should arrive for free registration at Williston Village Community Park by 7:30 a.m. for the 8 a.m. start time. An adult may, but is not required to, accompany a child in the race.
continued from page 4
and re-photographed scenes from historic images and wrote about how Williston has changed.
The students will showcase their photos and video in a final presentation — “Williston Then and Now” — for family members on June 12 from 1-2:30 p.m. The presentation will include a photo gallery walk of the historic images and students’ written and photographic comparisons, as well as a viewing of the documentary showcasing the oral histories collected from the interviews.
Comedic magician Alyx Hilshey will perform at 2 p.m. on June 10 at the Isham Family Farm, part of the farm’s First: Earth summer series.
Hilshey has performed her one-woman show at theaters in Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Boston. She will also present her “magic philosophy” lecture.
Tickets for the Saturday show are $12 available online at https:// tinyurl.com/Alyx-Isham-Show. For more information, email ishamfamilyfarm@yahoo.com or call (802) 872-1525.
continued from page 1
vote followed a unanimous recommendation of approval from the subcommittee that has worked for the past six months to revise the plan for the neighborhood.
“This is a decision to take another step forward. There are several of these yet to come if this is to go over the finish line,” Planning Director Matt Boulanger said.
The plan was revised over the course of several subcommittee meetings from the original submission the Glasers proposed last year. Current plans show two distinct neighborhoods connected by a rec path. One of the neighborhoods, with a cul-de-sac road, would be accessed through a new intersection with Mountain View Road and the other, with a semi-circular road, would have two new intersection points with Old Stage Road.
Eleven of the 109 homes are proposed to be deed restricted as affordable. Development would occur at a pace of no more than 18 homes per year.
“The way things actually buildout in real life, it tends not to be steady,” said Ken Belliveau, the former Williston planning director who is advising the Glasers on the application. “There is a certain amount of variability. It’s not 18 units per year, it’s no more than 18 units per year, understanding that the town has concerns about everything coming online at once.”
In addition to the 15 acres along Mountain View Road that would come under town ownership, the plan also proposes granting to the town about 38 acres off Old Stage Road. This is acreage the Glasers currently allow their neighbors, Windswept Farm, to use for equestrian activities. The subcommittee envisions a future lease between the
farm and the town to allow for its continued operations.
“People value (Windswept Farm) as an important community asset,” Belliveau said.
Windswept Farm owners Mike and Tina Mauss have sent the town an operations plan and letter “that summarizes their ideal lease terms that can be used as a starting point for discussion,” the subcommittee states in a memo to the planning commission.
“The town has several leases on town owned conserved land, including simple agreements with farmers at the Mahon parcel and the Catamount fields. We anticipate the town would use a similar format for any lease with Windswept Farm,” Town Planner Simon Myles wrote in the memo.
Planning commission member Chapin Kaynor voted against the proposal Tuesday. He said his suggestion of a rec path connection from the parcel to Williston Village through the adjacent Northridge parcel was not sufficiently explored. Commission members Cate Lamar, Shayla Livingston and Jill Pardini said they had hoped for more affordable housing, including a suggestion the commission made encouraging the Glasers to reach out to nonprofits like the Chittenden County Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity to consider the needs of adults with developmental disabilities.
“I’m just not sure if the view is enough of a substantial benefit for the town,” Lamar said.
“People value (Windswept Farm) as an important community asset.”
Ken Belliveau
“SUNDAE MAN” has been making treats for anxious families for decades, though his reason has remained a mystery. This children’s storybook illustrates lifelong family bonds and offers reassurance concerning time spent apart from loved ones.
Paperback and eBook available online at Barnes & Noble and Amazon kellysargent.com SUPPORT VERMONT AUTHORS!
One of the proven ways to tackle the climate change crisis is to electrify everything. From the cars we drive to how we heat our homes, we are moving away from polluting fossil fuels to electricity. And it’s crucial that this electricity comes from clean, stably priced renewable sources.
After all, it makes little climate sense to buy an electric car and power it with electricity generated by burning dirty oil or natural gas, as is often the case now in Vermont.
Fortunately, House Speaker Jill Krowinski recognized this. Despite a legislative session dominated for months by the fossil fuel industry’s campaign opposing progress on climate solutions, she championed passage of legislation to update Vermont’s Renewable Energy Standard, setting us on a path toward a cleaner 100 percent renewable energy future.
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zations committed to a 100 percent renewable energy future — VPIRG, 350Vermont, Rights & Democracy, the Vermont Chapter of the Sierra Club, Vermont Natural Resources Council, Renewable Energy Vermont, Vermont Conservation Voters and the Conservation Law Foundation — supported the bill.
There are many reasons why Vermont needs to update its law governing renewable energy.
Vermonters make the transition off of fossil fuels and to renewables — an amount of money that was unthinkable back in 2015. We cannot afford to leave this federal money unspent.
Due to the interconnected nature of New England’s electric grid, every time we in Vermont bring new wind or solar power online, at some point it will displace dirtier electricity generated elsewhere in New England.
Vermont has no baseload natural gas plants. Instead we rely on 81 such plants located in largely lower income communities in Massachusetts and Connecticut. In addition, when we need more power during energy “peaks” from heat waves or cold snaps, we rely on dozens of the most costly and dirty fossil fuel “peaker plants” spread throughout New England.
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This legislation brings together a broad working group of stakeholders and legislators to figure out how to get Vermont to a 100 percent renewable energy future and how these changes might impact our electric grid’s reliability and resiliency, the impact on electric rates and, importantly, how any decisions might impact both positively and negatively those in low- and moderate-income households.
A broad coalition of organi-
The current law is outdated. Written in 2015, it calls for just 75 percent of Vermont’s power to come from renewables by 2032 with just 10 percent of that generated from new sources, the lowest new renewable energy requirement in New England. It’s way past time to bring Vermont in line with the rest of our region’s commitment to renewable generation — the only way to truly decrease the amount of carbon pollution emitted by New England’s electric generation.
The Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law by President Biden last year, has given Vermont a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring in upwards of half a billion dollars in federal money to help
It’s way past time for Vermont to end its environmentally unjust reliance on these power plants in marginalized communities for so much of our energy needs. Bringing more new renewables online here in Vermont and throughout New England will help curtail the need for these and future heavily polluting facilities and begin the process of alleviating the environmental and health burdens placed on these communities.
Peter Sterling is the executive director of Renewable Energy Vermont, a trade association.
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 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
We cannot afford to leave this federal money unspent.
In response to Angela Arsenault’s column in the April 27 issue of the Observer (“Why I voted ‘yes’ on the Affordable Heat Act”), punitive taxes do not make heat cleaner or more affordable. To the contrary, they rob citizens of their ability to freely choose the most cost-effective heating sources themselves and adds onerous financial burdens.
I dispute that we need to make changes in this vital area. Why is my family responsible for deciding which heating sources are more efficient or price stable for other households? Isn’t that what the market now provides?
The only way to provide heat in the winter with more expensive means such as electrically powered heat pumps and/or weatherization (there is a point of diminishing returns with weatherization; think of standing in a bucket and trying to pick yourself up), is to seek taxpayer funding to render cheaper means more finan-
cially attractive by subsidizing.
Using an administrative agency (the Public Utilities Commission) to enforce a clean heat standard removes lawmakers from taking the full responsibility for the decisions they have made. They can cast the blame for Vermont becoming even less affordable on the agency enforcing the “rules” that were mandated by our elected representatives. A clever tactic.
Details on this “Affordable Heat Act” are almost non-existent. Are things going to become more affordable for some to purchase heating by making it less affordable to purchase heating by others? Robbing Peter to pay Paul does always require robbing.
How will a spike in electric demand from both heating and transportation be fulfilled? Will the additional power needed be generated locally or will we pay market rates (really not price-stable)?
Shelley Palmer Williston
continued from page 2
Thanks to everyone who made generous purchases at our epic yard sale to benefit the Williston Community Food Shelf. We are very proud to announce that we raised over $5,000 to support the great work done by this all-volunteer organization.
We would like to give special shout outs to our dear friend, Danny Beaton, who deftly twisted arms to increase donations, and to Kyle Stewart and Olivia Stewart, who helped us prep for the event and assisted with the parking.
We are also very appreciative of the support from our neighbors, Ginger and Ken Morton, Kathy and Denny Lewis, and Ally and Rob Stewart. The raffle drawing for the $2,500 camping gear package was held Sunday, with Kyle and Olivia doing the honors.
Our congratulations to the winner, Dean Melen.
ing again after the first rental he lived in jumped 20 percent in price one year. He shared that, despite his wanting to continue living in Williston, he will need to move to a more stable environment if he can’t find something more long-term soon.
McSweeney detailed during the discussion why housing can be difficult to attain. Most landlords in the area require at least a 720 credit score, she said, or proof that applicants make at least three times the renting price in their monthly income. With the tight market, landlords have no motivation to make themselves accessible to a wider pool of applicants.
Next to speak was Matt Boulanger, the planning director and zoning administrator for the Town of Williston. He said his office is looking for long-term solutions, such as trying to accommodate more high-density
housing like Finney Crossing. He said that his job is “making sure what is needed is allowed.” His office negotiates with developers like Snyder homes, which co-owns Finney Crossing, to include affordable housing in their projects. While the town offers incentives, they are not often taken, Boulanger said.
For those who are already homeless, solutions are in short order. Angela Arsenault, a state representative for Williston, was able to speak on the motel voucher program that had been set up due to Covid. She revealed that, despite a recent vote on budgeting ending the program, there is no transition plan in place for those who were using it.
“There is nowhere for people to go,” Arsenault said.
All the speakers shared the hope that those who came to the event will continue to have an interest in affordable housing and bolster the community’s will do improve the situation.
Send
The Burlington City Council confirmed Jon Murad as police chief Monday night, ending a more-thanthree-year period in which the city had only acting chiefs leading the department.
Eight councilors voted in favor of Murad’s confirmation late Monday, while four voted against it.
Each member of the body, except Council President Karen Paul, D-Ward 6, shared their feelings about Murad prior to the vote. Following the vote, Paul took a step back and recognized the occasion.
“As a body, we all recognize that public safety, meaning keeping everyone in our community safe, is a solemn commitment,” said Paul, who backed Murad’s confirmation. She went on to tell Murad that no matter how councilors voted, she felt that each of them was “eager to work with you in good faith.”
Progressive members of the council continued to oppose Murad’s confirmation on Monday, citing many of the same reasons they
had brought up at his failed confirmation vote in 2022. They took exception to Murad’s view that racial bias isn’t a problem within the police department and expressed discomfort with Murad’s demeanor, particularly with a recently reported incident with a University of Vermont Medical Center emergency department doctor.
But after councilors’ views and commitments to how they would vote gradually came out on Monday night, some of those Progressives predicted how the vote would go.
“Anybody who’s listening and looking can read the tea leaves,” Councilor Gene Bergman, P-Ward 2, said. “I believe you will be appointed tonight. I want to thank you for your hard work.”
However, Bergman voted no, along with Progressives Melo Grant, Central District; Joe Magee, Ward 3; and Zoraya Hightower, Ward 1.
On May 25, Weinberger announced his intention to bring Murad forward during a press conference on the steps of City Hall. Weinberger was joined by over 40 others who supported the appoint-
ment.
Monday’s vote was the mayor’s second try at a Murad appointment. With Progressive opposition, the council denied Murad the position in February 2022. Progressives who remain on the council still oppose Murad’s appointment, but the council makeup has changed, with Dem-
ocrats now controlling a plurality of seats.
Police chiefs in the city have worked on an acting basis only since December 2019, when then-Chief Brandon Del Pozo stepped down.
During a lengthy public comment period earlier in the meeting, 13 people spoke in favor of Murad
while six spoke against. Some of those comments included former city councilors.
Former Council President Max Tracy, who voted against Murad last year, said there hadn’t been enough progress on oversight and pointed to reports of Murad acting aggressively toward people, including women of color. He said that before the controversy surrounding former chief Del Pozo, there were other red flags.
“In this case, there are plenty of warning signs, but if you choose to ignore them, that will be on you,” Tracy said.
Former New North End councilor Dave Hartnett also chimed in, speaking in favor of Murad. He said that Murad had made mistakes and was not perfect, but “nobody said that” and his term as acting chief had amounted to a “three-year job interview.”
“The only way we’re going to turn this department around is to have true leadership,” Hartnett said. “And until we have that, we’re going to be in the same situation over and over again.”
Sitting on a curb behind the Colchester Quality Inn last Thursday and surrounded by all of her belongings packed into grocery bags, Rebecca Bussard was crying.
Her phone in her hand, she said she had been on hold for an hour and 20 minutes, waiting for someone from the state to answer with the hope that she could line up another motel room to live in. When someone finally picked up, they told her she was ineligible.
As an eleventh-hour attempt to block the eviction of roughly 800 unhoused people like Bussard from a state-funded shelter program played out in court, individuals who have been staying at motels around Vermont packed up their belongings, and, in some cases, were still trying to figure out where they would sleep.
Thursday marked the first of several waves of evictions planned for this spring and summer, as the state winds down pandemic-era programs that have sheltered an estimated 80 percent of Vermont’s unhoused population in motels. In total, about 2,800 people are due to lose shelter.
In an attempt to buy more time for people being pushed out of motels, Vermont Legal Aid filed a class-action suit last week. But a Vermont Superior Court judge denied the temporary restraining order sought by the nonprofit legal group for low-income Vermonters.
Even before the court decision came down, unhoused Vermonters had begun to move out of their motel rooms.
Bussard said she had accidentally slept past the 11 a.m. checkout time, and hotel management entered her room about 45 minutes later to tell her it was time to leave. One employee was kind, she said, telling her she had enough time to get her things together. Then another employee came back into the room. “She was like, ‘You got one minute,’” Bussard recalled.
After moving out her belongings, Bussard sat outside and waited for friends to call her. She didn’t have a plan on where to go.
Employees at the inn declined to comment.
At the nearby Motel 6, a resident named Paul, who declined to give his last name, had
also lost his housing Thursday morning. His belongings packed and in the motel lobby, he stood on the sidewalk, waiting for a ride. He was heading to Bristol for work.
Paul said he had been living at the motel for two months. Asked where he would stay, he responded, “I don’t know. Live in a tent I guess?”
Brenda Siegel, a housing advocate and former gubernatorial candidate, was also at the Motel 6 speaking with those who were being evicted. She described what she had seen Thursday as “dystopian.”
“I’m getting a lot of calls of people that have severe medical conditions or have been miscategorized by the state,” Siegel said. “I have not talked to a single person who’s like — ‘Oh, yeah, I have a friend to go to,’ or ‘I have an apartment to go to.’ Everyone’s going outside, across the entire state. People don’t have transportation. They have all their stuff with them.”
“This is a humanitarian crisis,” Siegel continued. “And we caused it.”
Service providers in Chittenden County are bracing for the impact.
“There are a significant number of people exiting the motels around the state today,” said Paul Dragon, executive director of the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity.
“We’re going to see this most obviously in Chittenden County and in Burlington. And, as you know, many people don’t have another option,
so they don’t have a home to go to.”
The organization has been passing out sleeping bags and tents and directing people toward camping areas because “there are no safe parking or safe camping sites around the state or in the city that have been designated for this,” he said.
“People will be staying outside in all sorts of weather,” Dragon said, as temperatures soared to the low 90s in several parts of the state. “The weather’s going to break this weekend, but today is very, very hot, and the summer months will continue to get hot.”
Dragon said the organization operates a cooling shelter at Feeding Chittenden on North Winooski Avenue that has been busy over the last several weeks. Earlier this week, staff saw 160 people come through the shelter in one day.
“I think the problem is, we’re getting overwhelmed at some of these sites,” he said.
Jonathan Farrell, director of the Committee on Temporary Shelter in Burlington, said Thursday that the organization has been working with local motel residents to try to find them places to stay.
Residents reported a mix of plans, according to Farrell — renting rooms, staying in shelters, moving in with friends or family, camping or living out of their car.
Others still had no plan. “I think a lot of folks really hoped or expected that program would be extended once again,” he said.
All of COTS’ single-person shelter beds, family beds and affordable housing units are full, he noted — a trend reported by shelter providers throughout the state.
Farrell said he’d like to see the state intervene with a broad, centralized system to coordinate housing and services for people exiting the motel system. “(It) would be far more efficient than trying to track people down as they bounce around in motel rooms,” he said.
— Emma Cotton, Erin Petenko and Ethan Weinstein contributed reporting.
While awaiting the arrival of Sen. Bernie Sanders in Winooski, people’s eyes were cast down scrolling on their phones. When he arrived, heads turned in undivided attention as he took strides to the front of the room.
On Friday, April 28, the Community College of Vermont held a town meeting on its Winooski campus with Sanders. Community members eagerly gathered to voice an array of concerns to the senator, including student debt, substance abuse/addiction and healthcare. Almost every chair in the room was filled. This meeting was an open discussion to voice and listen to each other’s personal experiences for the senator to bring back to Washington.
Opening the meeting, Sanders said, “What is going on in your lives economically … What would you like to see the govern-
ment do?”
A Community College of Vermont student spoke about her debt and the setbacks she has experienced while trying to obtain her education. Some of her setbacks included having a heart attack, homelessness and her parents passing away.
The student said, “I want to keep going. I have dreams, I have passion and I have a gift to give to the world. And I believe that my mission is to share. But now I have to decide, do I want to go to school with $50,000 in debt or do (I) want to take care of my health?”
Sanders responded, “Other countries have made the decision that free public education should not just be your high school, but it should be college and graduate school. Well, I agree with that. One of the things that we are fighting for.”
For a large portion of the meeting, many community members expressed their anger about the American healthcare system, and
their personal struggles navigating the excessive costs.
A young man brought up needing to spend most of his savings, $5,000, on an MRI out of pocket even with health insurance through his job.
A Community College of Vermont custodian said, “I’m disabled and a lot of my medical bills, like tape and ice packs and overhead payments and stuff like that, doesn’t even go to insurance. That comes out of pocket and I can’t afford that.”
Another disabled community member said, “There have been several employers that have exhausted me until I can’t walk.”
Many people in the room commented on how they do not seek out medical help unless in extreme need because of the high price of care, with or without medical insurance. Sanders noted that 60,000 people a year die because of not going to the doctor. The general consensus in the room was that universal healthcare is essential.
Sanders said: “We are the only major country on earth that primarily ties healthcare to your job.”
He spoke about other countries viewing healthcare as a human right and how it is funded in the same way as public education.
Mental health was another hot topic.
“We have today, a major, major mental health crisis in this country. It impacts everybody,” Sanders said. “We have nowhere, nowhere near the number of mental health practitioners that we need. We don’t have enough counselors, psychologists or psychiatrists.”
The topic of mental health was a gateway into a discussion relating to people’s struggles during the pandemic.
Many of the attendees shared their feelings of isolation and disconnect from other people. Many found themselves relying on social media and computers for connection
but overall felt dissatisfied with online interactions instead of face-to-face interactions.
A young woman said, “I was in high school when the pandemic started, so I did a lot of my schooling online and I graduated on time and that made it harder for me to socialize with other people and like, unite with other people because I’ve been alone for so long just doing work and not socializing.”
Many community members noted that there is a decline in community and a noticeable change in the way people interact today, in the years after 2020.
A young man said, “how many noncommercial meeting spaces are there? I want to go meet with my friends. Where am I going to go? A library or a public park? Anywhere else? I’m going to be expected to spend money.”
As the meeting approached its close, Sanders made a point to touch on the topic of drug addiction in the United States. He mentioned that 245 people died of an overdose in Vermont last year and 100,000 people overall in the United States. Attendees shared different thoughts on why they think there is a drug problem in the United States.
A common theme in answers was the feeling that a lot of people have lost hope for their futures, coupled with little community. Drug use is an easy escape to turn to.
A community member also pointed out, “People that work in manual labor are more likely to sustain injuries. They are also more likely to not have health care to cover the cost of pain medication or pain treatment. These folks end up using opioids that are not legal or, you know, pharmaceuticals because of that.”
As the meeting came to an end, Sanders received a warm round of applause and gratitude from the attendees. There was immediately a line for selfies that followed.
Wildfire smoke from Quebec caused a haze and a red sun effect through the Lake Champlain area and was reported as far as the Northeast Kingdom and Brattleboro on Tuesday morning.
The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation issued an air quality advisory on Monday afternoon warning the poor air quality could be dangerous for atrisk groups.
Widespread fires in Alberta, Nova Scotia, Quebec and eastern Ontario have caused “unhealthy” air quality across much of the United States, but this is the first time this year it affected Vermont so heavily, according to Bennett Leon, planning section chief of the department’s air quality and climate division.
Since the wildfires are ongoing, there could be “off and on” impacts to Vermont in the near future, meteorologist Rebecca Duell said.
Williston Central School held physical education classes indoors for its thirdthrough eighth-graders, according to Bonnie Birdsall, the district’s director of digital learning and communications.
Leon said the current level of pollutants in the air is considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” including people with respiratory conditions, young children, older adults and people who work outside. The department recommends at-risk groups stay indoors with the windows closed, and everyone should keep an eye out for symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, school activities with short outdoor periods such as recess should be safe, but for longer activities like athletics, kids may need more breaks and less intense activities.
Leon said Vermonters could use the agency’s www.AirNow.gov website to check the air quality in their area, along with more detailed recommendations for different categories of air pollution.
The Burlington Waterfront, though, appeared business as usual. School groups crowded around the Echo Leahy Center, blowing bubbles and running around the green amid a cool breeze.
“We’re just being mindful about checking in with students who have asthma or things like that, but there haven’t been any issues,” said Shaye McHatten, a teacher at Swanton Elementary School. “It is weird
page 24
CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Avery Murray just clears the high jump bar during the Vermont State D1 Track and Field Championships on Saturday at Burlington High School. Amelia Novak focuses on sticking the landing in the girls long jump. Matthew Servin crosses the finish line first in the 1500 meter run. Alice Kredell (l) and Estella Laird finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in the girls 1500 meter run. The CVU girls relay team finished second in the 4x800 meter relay. Anders Johnson stretches over the bar in the pole vault.
OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
Hey Woodski!
I’m rarely sore from playing sports because I play almost every day. Is stretching before and after practice and games really that important?
Stretch Curious, age 16 (soccer and basketball)
Dear Stretch Curious, Not sore after all that activity? What’s your secret? Many athletes would love to know!
Muscle soreness can be uncomfortable, but it’s something most of us go through while building stronger muscles. Everyone’s body reacts differently to exercise though, so enjoy it.
Stretching IS important, and not for the reason you may think.
Stretching does not reduce soreness. Stretching helps keep your muscles and tendons flexible, which reduces the risk of injury. When muscles and tendons are tight, injury is more likely.
Want to keep playing the sports you love? Here are a few things you can do to keep your muscles and tendons flexible.
Pre-exercise — an active warmup is best. Gently move your body through the motions you’ll be doing later at higher intensity. For example, light squats replicate jumping, arm circles replicate shooting or throwins. Ask your coaches for more active warm-ups for your sports.
After your practice or game, static stretches are your best friend. Stretch until you feel a slight pull and then hold that position for 20-
90 seconds. Pay attention to how you feel. Stretching should never cause pain. Repeat the stretch several times while breathing softly and relaxing.
Lastly, plan a stretch session after your ride home. After traveling, repeat your active warm up followed by gentle static stretches. This relieves tight muscles after a long car or bus ride and might even energize you for homework!
Most of all, these tips will help you feel better and keep you in the game.
Steve Fuchs is a health coach at Steve Fuchs Health Coaching. Go to www.vermonthealthcoach.com to anonymously ask a question about things that affect your athletic performance, such as performance anxiety, workload balance, nutrition, willpower and procrastination. The advice offered in this column is not intended to replace professional medical advice. It is advised that you talk to your doctor before making any changes in your diet, exercise or lifestyle choices.
Green Mountain Transit (GMT) will resume fare collection on Jan. 2, 2024, on Chittenden County and LINK Express routes, the organization announced this week.
GMT stopped collecting fares in March 2020 as a Covid infection control measure. By offering free service, riders were able to enter buses through rear doors, greatly reducing contact between drivers and riders.
Prior to the pandemic, GMT earned about $2.5 million a year in fare revenue. GMT used federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to replace fare revenue through June 2022. Since July 2022, fare revenue replacement has been provided by the State of Vermont, and additional state support to GMT is allowing fare free service to be extended until January.
“We sincerely appreciate the financial support that allowed us to offer our service free of charge to the communities we service,” said GMT General Manager Clayton Clark. “With pandemic relief funds running out, we need to return to our longstanding practice of having a portion of our operat-
ing expenses paid for by our riders.”
GMT requested the fare free service extension into January so it can improve its fare collection system. Previously, GMT had used fare boxes from multiple providers, which limited more advanced payment options, such as onboard credit card payments.
When fare service restarts it will be with a single fare box system that will provide improved payment options, both in terms of
how riders pay and how fast riders can pay when entering the bus.
“We want our riders to have better options,” said Clark.
GMT will begin receiving public comment on fare service in June, with the anticipation that fare plans will be finalized this fall. As a condition of receiving additional state funds, GMT must assess its fare system to find ways to protect economically vulnerable riders while also ensuring that fare revenue covers at least 10 percent of the operating costs. GMT must report back to the Legislature on its fare plans in December.
Moving from an analog system that relied on cash and paper tickets to one that accepts cash, digital payments and smart passes will take time to implement. GMT anticipates that some features will be ready when fare collection restarts, and others may be rolled out at a later time. The service will continue to be honed based on rider feedback and experience in managing the new system.
For more information, visit www.ridegmt.com/fare-resumption.
The University of Vermont will host the inaugural “Research, Innovation, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship” (RISE) Summit on its campus June 21-22. The event is free and open to the public and will bring together researchers, business leaders and alumni to highlight the opportunities and challenges of economic development in Vermont.
Speakers, including Sen. Patrick Leahy and Beta Technologies founder Kyle Clark, will discuss solutions to clean water, sustainable energy, affordable housing, food production and more — and demonstrate the potential for university-community-business partnerships in these areas.
Along with speakers, the summit will convene research, policy and practitioner panels to discuss a variety of related challenges like housing, infrastructure and talent attraction to help broaden economic development outside of large coastal cities.
“The RISE Summit and the UVM institutes, researchers, students and community advocates that it will bring together are fulfilling a broad expansion of the university’s traditional land-grant mission,” said UVM President Suresh Garimella. “The main focus of this work will be the 14 counties of Vermont, but UVM
and the new Institute for Rural Partnerships will serve as a model and leader for university-community-business engagement across the country and help revitalize the land-grant spirit so central to higher education.”
The RISE Summit is partly sponsored by the newly established Institute for Rural Partnerships (IFRP), which will be housed in UVM’s Office of Research. The IFRP was made possible by a $9.3 million award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Other sponsors include UVM’s Office of Research, UVM Innovations, the Vermont EPSCOR Program, the Vermont Technology Council, and a wide range of community and business supporters.
The RISE Summit will take place at UVM’s Davis Center. Students, prospective students, community and business leaders, industry experts and community members interested in innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship are invited to attend. Registration is free and open to the public. Participants can engage with the event in person or virtually via livestream. For more details about the summit and to register, visit uvm.edu/ rise.
“With pandemic relief funds running out, we need to return to our longstanding practice of having a portion of our operating expenses paid for by our riders.”
Clayton Clark GMT general manager
May 19 at 4:45 p.m. — Suspicious male on the side of Old Navy. The male, age 43, was issued a citation to appear in court for violating conditions of release.
May 19 at 6:29 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Case is still under investigation.
May 19 at 9:15 p.m. — Suspicious male reported at Marshalls. The male, age 34, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft, possession of cocaine, violating conditions of release and unlawful trespass.
May 20 at 1:07 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. A female, age 32, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 21 at 3:52 a.m. — Officer conducted a traffic stop on Williston Road. Car took off on the officer, and a small pursuit took place. Male then took off on foot. Officer was unable to locate the male. Case is still under investigation.
May 21 at 2:39 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Case is still
under investigation.
May 21 at 3:32 p.m. — Retail theft reported at LL Bean. Case is still under investigation.
May 22 at 3:43 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. A female, age 35, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 22 at 4:48 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Home Depot. A male, age 44, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 23 at 1:06 p.m. — Report of a runaway juvenile from Day Lane. Juvenile was located on May 25 by Colchester Police Department.
May 23 at 7:30 p.m. — Suspicious male reported on East Hill Road. Male was gone upon arrival.
May 24 at 1:12 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. A male, age 34, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 24 at 3:51 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Lenny’s. A male, age
47, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 24 at 4:41 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Plato’s Closet. Case is still under investigation.
May 25 at 11:06 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Good. A male, age 33, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 25 at 11:39 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. A female, age 30, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 25 at 12:51 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. A male, age 32, had an outstanding arrest warrant. The male was also issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
May 26 at 9:22 a.m. — Officers responded to a crash on St. George Road. A male, age 39, was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
May 26 at 9:53 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. Officer was able to identify the female and requested a warrant for her arrest.
May 26 at 12:24 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. Case is still under investigation.
May 26 at 7:37 p.m. — Retail theft
reported at Staples. A female, age 35, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 26 at 8:09 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Home Depot. A male, age 44, was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft and unlawful mischief. Another male, age 46, had an outstanding arrest warrant. He was transported to the correctional facility. The second male was also issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft, resisting arrest and driving with a criminally suspended license.
May 27 at 11:44 a.m. — Marshalls reported a male in the store concealing merchandise. Male was trespassed from the store.
May 27 at 3:11 p.m. — Suspicious male at Dick’s. Male was trespassed.
May 27 at 8:32 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. A male, age 53, was issued a citation to appear in court.
May 28 at 12:19 a.m. — Report of a minor motor vehicle accident on North Williston Road. A juvenile male was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
May 28 at 11:48 a.m. — Retail theft reported at LL Bean. Case is still under investigation.
May 28 at 2:41 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Plato’s Closet. Case is still under investigation.
May 28 at 7:28 p.m. — Retail theft at Home Depot. Case is still under investigation.
May 29 at 12:56 a.m. — Traffic stop conducted. A male, age 35, was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
May 29 at 9:32 p.m. — Report of a suspicious vehicle on Chelsea Place. A male, age 53, was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
May 30 at 4:39 p.m. — Report of a male and female behind Marshalls pulling tags off stolen merchandise. Merchandise was recovered and brought back to the store.
June 1 at 6:42 p.m. — Retail theft at Staples. A male, age 27, was issued a citation to appear in court.
June 1 at 7:02 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. A male, age 48, was issued a citation to appear in court.
Officers from the Williston Police Department also conducted 58 traffic stops and responded to 17 alarms and 14 motor vehicle crashes during this time frame.
Next Week: What’s up with gravity?
Let’s celebrate Father’s Day, June 18, with stories about some fascinating dads from the animal world.
A sea horse is a most unusual dad. Why? He’s the one who carries the babies! The male has a pouch in his lower belly, or abdomen. The female lays her eggs in his pouch. The male then carries as many as 2,000 eggs in his pouch until they are ready to be born. This may take two to seven weeks.
A gorilla dad can be up to 6 feet tall and weigh 500 pounds. The gorilla dad helps clean and hold young gorillas. He breaks up fights among the young and protects them.
Many primates make good fathers. Primates are mammals that usually have hands and feet they can use to grasp things. Gorillas, humans and monkeys are types of primates.
Father wolves defend their cubs. They bring food to the cubs and to their mom if she can’t hunt.
Words
ABDOMEN, ANIMAL, CUBS, DAD, DODD, EGGS, FAMILY, FATHER, GORILLA, JUNE, MARMOSET, MONKEY, OSTRICH, POUCH, PRIMATE, PROTECT, SEA HORSE,
Gross-out alert! Adult wolves chew and swallow the meat. Then they throw up the partly digested food and feed this to their cubs. Wolves are the largest members of the dog family. They usually live in packs of about three to 20 members.
Father ostrich is a real babysitter. Mom sits on the eggs during the day, and Dad has the night duty.
When the chicks are in danger, the dad lets out a loud cry to scare away enemies. If this doesn’t work, both the mom and dad might kick or chase away the enemies.
The mother marmoset doesn’t have to worry about day care because dad takes over. Baby pygmy marmosets spend most of the day with him.
They grab onto his back as he moves from branch to branch. He takes them back to mom at mealtime. After they’ve eaten, they go back to dad.
Pygmy marmosets are the smallest true monkeys in the world. They weigh less than half a pound and are only about 6 inches to 8 inches long (15 inches with their tails).
Here’s your chance to tell your dad and others about what he does for you! Write a few lines about dear old Dad and draw a picture, then cut out this section and give it to him on Father’s Day!
Father’s Day is always held on the third Sunday in June. The first one was celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, Washington. It was started by Sonora Smart Dodd. Her mother died when Sonora was a child, and she was raised by her father. Mrs. Dodd thought there should be a special day to honor fathers.
On the Web:
• bit.ly/MPfathers
At the library:
• “The Dad Break” by Poe Avondet
• “Dad Jokes for Kids” by Jimmy Niro
• “How To Train Your Dad” by Gary Paulsen
Devin: What did the baby otter say about his dad?
Delta: “He is a dad like no otter!”
of ultrasonic clicks when they are stressed
More than 1.6 million kids have a parent who serves in the military.
that remind us of animal dads are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
their cubs. They bring food to the cubs and to their mom if she can’t hunt.
monkeys in the world. They weigh less than half a pound and are only about 6 inches to 8 inches long (15 inches with their tails).
Words that remind us of animal dads are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
ABDOMEN, ANIMAL, CUBS, DAD, DODD, EGGS, FAMILY, FATHER, GORILLA, JUNE, MARMOSET, MONKEY, OSTRICH, POUCH, PRIMATE, PROTECT, SEA HORSE, YOUNG.
You’ll need:
• 1 honeydew melon, seeded and cut into pieces
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup sour cream
What to do:
1. Place cut-up honeydew in a medium bowl.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
2. Combine the remaining ingredients in a separate bowl to make the dressing. Stir well.
3. Place both bowls in refrigerator for at least an hour.
4. Spoon dressing over honeydew and serve to Dad on Father’s Day morning. Makes 2 servings.
• “The Dad Break” by Poe Avondet
• “Dad Jokes for Kids” by Jimmy Niro
• “How To Train Your Dad” by Gary Paulsen
Devin: What did the baby otter say about his dad?
Delta: “He is a dad like no otter!”
Researchers have discovered that some plants emit a barrage of ultrasonic clicks when they are stressed by lack of water or when their stems are cut. This “exciting and thought-provoking” discovery by researchers at Tel Aviv University was made by recording sounds from cactus, wheat, corn and other plants. “We found that each plant and each type of stress is associated with a specific identifiable sound,” they said. “The sounds emitted by plants can probably be heard by various animals, such as bats, mice and insects.”
For later: Look in your newspaper for items about fathers in your community.
Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1789, James Madison, then a member of the House of Representatives, proposed the Bill of Rights to Congress.
• In 1949, George Orwell’s “Nineteen Eighty-Four” was published.
• In 1968, James Earl Ray, who was suspected of assassinating Martin Luther King Jr., was arrested in London.
• In 1982, President Ronald Reagan became the first U.S. president to address a joint session of the British Parliament.
TODAY’S FACT:
• George Orwell died just seven months after “Nineteen EightyFour” was published, due to complications from tuberculosis.
SOLUTION
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proud of our smiles!
Dear Savvy Senior, Is it possible to collect Social Security benefits from my ex-spouse? We were married for 12 years but have been divorced for almost 20 years now.
Never Remarried
Dear Never, Yes, depending on your specific circumstances, you may very well be eligible for divorced spouses Social Security benefits. Here’s what you should know.
WHO’S ELIGIBLE?
A divorced spouse can collect a Social Security retirement benefit on the earnings record of their ex-husband (or ex-wife) if they are at least age 62, were married for at least 10 years, are unmarried and are not eligible for a higher benefit based on your own earnings record.
In order to collect, your former spouse must also be at least 62 and eligible for Social Security benefits. But he doesn’t have to be receiving them in order for you to collect divorced spouse’s benefits, as long as you’ve been divorced for at least two years.
Even if your ex is remarried, it won’t affect your right to divorcee benefits, nor will it affect your ex’s retirement benefits or his current spouse’s benefits.
BENEFIT AMOUNT
A divorced spouse can receive up to 50 percent of their ex’s full Social Security benefit, or less if they take benefits before their full retirement age, which is 66 for people born in
1945-1954 but is gradually increased to age 67 for people born in 1960 or later. To find out your full retirement age and see how much your benefits will be reduced by taking them early, see SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/ planner/agereduction.html.
Keep in mind, though, that if you qualify for benefits based on your own work history, you’ll receive the larger of the two benefits. You cannot receive benefits on both your record, and your ex’s work record too.
To find out how much your retirement benefits will be, see your Social Security statement at www.SSA.gov/myaccount.
To get an estimate of your ex’s benefits, call Social Security at 800-772-1213. You’ll need to show your marriage certificate and divorce decree to prove your marriage lasted at least 10 years, along with his Social Security number, to get the estimate.
You also need to be aware that working can affect your divorced spouse’s benefits. If you start taking benefits while work-
ing, and are younger than full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced $1 for every $2 you earn above the annual limit, which is $21,240 in 2023. In the year you reach full retirement age, however, the annual limit increases to $56,520 and the reduction lowers to $1 for every $3 above that limit. See www.SSA. gov/pubs/EN-05-10069.pdf for more details.
Another factor that can reduce your divorced spouse’s benefits is receiving a pension from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes (like a government). This is a rule know as Government Pension Offset (see www.SSA.gov/ benefits/retirement/planner/ gpo-calc.html). It can reduce your benefits by two-thirds of the amount of your pension.
DIVORCED SURVIVOR’S BENEFITS
You also need to know that when your ex-spouse dies (and if you were married for 10 or more years), you become eligible for divorced survivor benefits, which is worth up to 100 percent
of what your ex-spouse was due.
Survivor benefits are available to divorced spouses as early as age 60 (50 if you’re disabled). But if you remarry before 60, you become ineligible unless the marriage ends. Remarrying after age 60 will not affect your eligibility.
Also note that if you are receiving divorced spouses benefits when your ex-spouse dies, you will automatically be switched over to the higher pay-
ing survivor benefit.
For more information, visitwww.SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/applying7.html and click on “Benefits for Your Divorced Spouse.”
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.
Elizabeth Anne Bouchard (née Lacktis) (Betty) died peacefully on May 30, 2023, surrounded by family members.
Elizabeth (Betty) was born on April 19, 1935, in Atlantic City, NJ to Anthony and Anna Lacktis. She grew up on her parents’ poultry farm in Mullica Township, NJ, and graduated from Egg Harbor City High School in 1953. While her first job was waiting on customers at the family’s White-Way Farm Market, after graduation she worked for New Jersey Bell Telephone. She met Joe and they married in 1958.
They moved to Egg Harbor City where they raised their 6 children in a house that they bought and renovated room by room. No one ever went hungry with Betty, who could whip up a meal out of anything in the refrigerator. And, there was always something for dessert.
In 1977, Joe was transferred by IBM and temporarily moved to Vermont ahead of the family. Betty intrepidly took on the challenge of moving the children, the dog and the household to Vermont and then continued raising her family with Joe in the log home they built on Snipe Island Road in Richmond. She returned to the workforce after her youngest entered school, working for the University of Vermont’s Art History, Textile and Design departments and Consumer Assistance Program.
Raymond Jesse Brown, a devoted father, talented musician and beloved member of the community, passed away on May 29, 2023 after a brief illness at the age of 84. He was born in Randolph to Harold and Dorothy (Spaulding) Brown and was a proud sixth-generation Vermonter.
After serving his country in US Air Force bands in Kansas City and New York, Ray returned to Vermont where he married Roberta “Bobbi” Spooner in 1963.
She later worked for the Vermont Youth Orchestra.
Almost immediately upon moving to Vermont, she became intrigued with rug-hooking. She was a member of the Green Mountain Rug Hooking Guild. A true artist, she created over 60 masterpieces. Each child received one when they married and each
dren: Stephen (MaryLou) of Egg Harbor City, NJ; Kathleen (John) Elgert of Colchester, VT; Anne Marie Letourneau of Monkton, VT; Theresa (Dan) Gookin of Essex Junction, VT; Mary Bouchard (Will Ploof) of Wilder, VT and Patricia (Rand) Cayer of Candia, NH; her grandchildren; Lauren Bouchard (Isaac Braun) and Aimee Stravous (Nick); Peter and Rachel Elgert; Kristiana Letourneau (Peter Norton); Andre and Eliza Letourneau; Jacob and Mila Gookin; Mitchell and Clark Cayer; her great-granddaughter Vesper Braun; and her sisters Joan Ruppenthal, of Henderson KY and MaryLou Breitzman of Egg Harbor City, NJ. She was predeceased by her husband Joseph F. Bouchard, her parents, and her son-in-law Andrew J. Letourneau.
A committal service for Barbara LaPlant, who passed away March 12, 2023, has been scheduled for Friday, June 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. in Riverview Cemetery, Richmond. Arrangements are in care of Gifford Funeral Home, 22 Depot Street, Richmond, VT.
grandchild was gifted a unique rug at their birth. Many of her works were displayed across New England at rug shows, in Rug Hooking magazines, books and museums.
Her passion for hooking led her to start a rug hooking group in her home town of Richmond in 1981 that continues to meet every Tuesday.
Betty loved to watch birds at the kitchen feeder and she could identify many kinds. A voracious reader, she often researched birds and became an expert at identifying them. Betty and Joe spent many memorable weeks each summer at their camp in Alburg, on their own or hosting large family gatherings.
Betty is survived by her chil-
Ray worked as a manager for Baileys Music Room and later became a District Manager for RCA, overseeing dealers in Vermont and New York. During this time he founded the Burlington Chess Club and served as its president for many years. In 1972, Ray opened Village TV & Appliance in Essex, operating it until its sale in 1979. Following this, he enjoyed a successful career as an insurance agent, eventually retiring in 1995 after a triumphant battle with cancer.
Ray’s musical journey was extensive, spanning many decades. After serving with the Air Force bands, he spent 18 years with the 40th Army Band and 35 years with the Burlington
Betty has already been welcomed into heaven by Joe, her parents and other members of the extended Bouchard, Lacktis and Natale families. There will be many games of Rummikub, Bananagrams, and Pinochle; and there will always be word and jigsaw puzzles in progress.
Visitation will be Monday, June 12, 2023, between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 64 West Main Street, Richmond followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will immediately follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery, Richmond.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Richmond Rescue, or the Community Senior Center of Bolton, Richmond and Huntington.
A memorial service for Tim Potvin, who passed away on March 15, will be celebrated on Sunday June 25 at 2 p.m. at the Garden Barn at Lang Farm, 45 Upper Main St #101, Essex, VT 05452. Please visit https://www.minorfh.com to read Tim’s full obituary.
Betsy Lou Roach, 91, of Williston passed away in San Antonio, TX on May 16, 2023.
Betsy was born to Lewis and Gladys Oakley on June 27, 1931 in Hartford, CT. Betsy worked as a State of Connecticut employee, retiring in 1986 when she married John Roach and moved to Burlington.
Betsy is survived by her husband, John, and his children, their spouses, and their children: Linda and Corey Gottfried, Tom and Barbara Roach,
Karen and Kris Peckham, Jim and Lisa Roach, and Nancy Smith and Tom Labarge. Betsy also leaves behind two nieces, Beth and Lynn Poindexter, and Susan Leahy. Visiting hours were on Friday, June 2, at the Ready Funeral and Cremation Service South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington followed by a funeral Mass at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Williston. Burial was Saturday, June 3, at Fairview Cemetery in West Hartford, CT.
To send online condolences to her family, please visit www.readyfuneral.com.
tion for his family history and spent time tracing his family tree through more than ten generations in New England. In his leisure time he enjoyed boating and fishing on Lake Champlain. Ray was also fascinated by computers and digital photography, feeling fortunate to witness the technological revolution of his time. Ray shared his photography on the web at www.pbase. com/xray.
Concert Band, twelve as president. Ray also played in several musical groups at UVM, including the Vermont Wind Ensemble, UVM Brass Ensemble, and UVM Orchestra.
Ray had a deep apprecia -
Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Bobbi, son Aaron, daughter-in-law Katie, cherished grandchildren, John and Miles, brother Richard of Braintree, and several nieces and nephews.
Raymond will be remem -
bered as a talented musician, a loving family man, and a dedicated member of his community. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories of his music, his passions, and his kind spirit will live on in our hearts. A graveside service was held on June 8, 2023 at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph where full military honors were accorded. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the UVM Cancer Center online at the Donate to Cancer Center Donation Form (www.uvmhealth. org). Please visit www.awrfh. com to share your memories and condolences.
Dorothy Alling Memorial
Library hours:
• Monday and Wednesday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Visit www.damlvt.org to apply for a library card, renew materials, access digital offerings and register for programs. Need help? Call 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org.
BOOK SALE
Support the Friends of the Library annual Fourth of July book sale by donating books during the month of June. We’re also looking for volunteers to help with setup on the morning of July 2 and to help during the sale on July 3-4. Call to sign up for a timeslot to help.
Donation drop-off times are:
• Monday and Wednesday: 12-2 p.m., 5-7 p.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 12-2 p.m.
• Saturday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Please do not drop off materials when the library is closed or place items in the book drops. Limit three boxes per day. We accept youth and adult books, foreign language books, DVDs, audiobooks on CD and travel books less than 5 years old. We do not accept anything damaged, old, moldy or dirty; magazines, puzzles, music CDs, games, condensed books, VHS or cassette tapes; computer software or manuals; maps; sheet music; textbooks; dictionaries or encyclopedias.
Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age.
FRENCH STORYTIME
Saturday, June 10, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Drop in for French story time with a native French speaker.
STORYTIME
Tuesdays, June 13 and 20, 10:3011 a.m. Join Danielle for stories and fun. On the Town Green.
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY
Wednesday, June 14, 2-3 p.m. Enjoy games and outdoor activities.
PRESCHOOL MUSIC AND PLAYTIME
Thursdays, June 15 and 22, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy music on the Town Green, then stay to play on the patio.
BIG BLUE TRUNK SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY
Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Kickoff your summer reading and enjoy the twirly-whirly ride, outdoor games and cotton candy! On the Town Green, rain or shine.
JUNETEENTH WEEK
STORIES AND CRAFT
June 19-24. Read one of the Juneteenth picture books at the library and make a Juneteenth flag to take home.
BABY TIME
Wednesday, June 21, 10:30-11:00 a.m. Socialize and bond with gentle activities.
ALL TOGETHER NOW SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
The Summer Reading Challenge runs from June 17 to Aug. 4. Registration for youth and adults begins on June 16 at www.damlvt.org. Keep an eye out for summer reading events, challenges, reward opportunities and more.
To join a book club or for a Zoom link, email programs@damlvt.org.
ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)
Fridays, June 9 and 16, 12-12:30
p.m. Reconnect with your peaceful body and breath in this online meditation led by Maryellen Crangle.
MAH JONGG
Fridays, June 9 and 16, 1-3 p.m. Drop in to play this tile game.
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Saturday, June 10, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Join native speaker Romain Feuillette in group conversation.
CURRENT EVENTS
Wednesday, June 14, 10:30 a.m.12 p.m. Join community members to discuss news and events.
LIFE STORIES WE LOVE TO TELL (ONLINE)
Wednesday, June 14, 2-3:30 p.m. Have a story to tell? Maryellen Crangle gives prompts to help you focus your story and share with the group.
AFTER HOURS BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, June 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m. “Things We Do In the Dark” by Jennifer Hillier.
TECH TUTOR
Thursday, June 15, 4-6 p.m. Call the library to schedule a half-hour appointment for help with technology.
BOOK CLUB BUFFET (ONLINE)
Tuesday, June 20, 12:30-1:30 p.m. “Across Many Mountains” by Yangzom Brauen.
COOK THE BOOK
Wednesday, 12-1 p.m. Pick up a travel cookbook at the library and share your favorite recipe at our potluck.
SPANISH (ONLINE)
Wednesday, June 21, 5-6 p.m. Brush up on your Spanish conversation.
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.
JOB POSTINGS
Day camp counselors are wanted for REC camp and OUR camp. For job details and to apply, visit www.willistonrec.org.
INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENT
The July Fourth Parade theme is “Growing Community.” Registration for the parade is open at www.willistonrec.org. Parade Grand Marshal information is coming soon. Activities will be offered on the Village Green from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. after the parade.
There will also be activities from 6-9 p.m. at Village Community Park. The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m. at Village Community Park. For event information and ongoing updates, visit
www.willistonrec.org.
GET FIT W/JAZZY
Age 18-plus. Wednesdays, 6-6:45 p.m., $10 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck
RETRO DANCE CARDIO & CORE
Age 50-plus. Mondays, 4:30-
5:30 p.m., $5 per class. Instructor: Jazmin Averbuck
JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT
Age 50-plus. Mondays and/or Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Instructor: Kit Sayers
SENIOR FITNESS
Age 50-plus. Tuesdays, 10:3011:30 a.m. Instructor: Toni Kunker
TAI CHI- BEGINNER SUN STYLE
Age 50-plus. Thursdays, 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Instructor: Chris Curtis
HEALTHY LIVING FOR YOUR BRAIN & BODY
Age 50-plus. Last Monday of each month, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Instructor: The Alzheimer’s Associ-
FELDENKRAIS
Age 18-plus. Most people haven’t heard of the Feldenkrais method, but when they experience it, people tend to say it’s like magic. They feel more grounded, lighter and more connected. Instructor: Gillian Franks
SUMMER CAMPS
Registration is now open for all summer camps. Be sure to check out the rec website (www. willistonrec.org) for offerings and to register. Early registration is encouraged as some camps fill fast. A camp grid is available to help plan your children’s summer fun. New camps added this year include Culinary Mashup Camp (Age 10-14, 1-4:30 p.m., June 2630); Creative Engineering Camp (Age 6-11, 1-4:30 p.m. July 2428); and Kids Kitchen Camp (Age 6-12, 1-4:30 p.m., Aug. 7-11).
TRACK & FIELD
Ages 6-14. Participants will learn the basics of running, jumping, throwing and relays. There will be meets with other area rec departments and a state meet.
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 – 7:00 PM
Town Hall 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 23-16 CVSD c/o Jeffrey Kershner requests a discretionary permit for the proposed 1904 sq. ft. modular building and associated site work to serve as temp. classrooms at the Allen Brook School at 497 Talcott Rd. in the RZD.
Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
Tuesday, June 27, 2023 – 7:00 PM
Town Hall 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 09-01.26 Rieley Properties, LLC & The Snyder FC Commercial Properties, LLC request a discretionary permit to subdivide Finney Crossing Lot C-3 an approx. 2.74-ac lot at 281 Holland Ln in the TCZD.
DP 20-20.1 Pidgeon Farm Properties c/o Jesse Carswell requests a discretionary permit for a 3,000 sf commercial addition and Master Sign Plan at 375 Engineers Dr in the IZDW.
APP 23-02 Appellants Peter and Abigail
Highway Positions Available
Highway Foreperson
This is a supervisory position that is responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the town’s highway infrastructure. A valid VT issued CDL Class A license is required. Required skills include proficient operation of a road grader, excavator, front-end loader, backhoe, and tandem plow truck. Starting pay is $32.00 - $38.00 an hour depending upon qualifications.
Highway Maintainer
This is a semi-skilled position of moderate complexity in highway maintenance and equipment operation. The Highway Maintainer II performs a wide variety of manual and automotive equipment operation tasks involved in municipal road maintenance. Work extends to responsibility for maintenance and servicing of assigned automotive equipment, requiring strong mechanical and trouble shooting skills. A valid Vermont issued Class B CDL is required. Starting pay is $22.00 - $25.00 an hour depending upon qualifications.
Both positions provide health, dental, vision and disability insurance; paid time off; pension plan; and 13 paid holidays.
A highway application can be found on the town’s website www. hinesburg.org under “employement.” Applications can be emailed to Todd Odit, Town Manager at todit@hinesburg.org.
Mead file an appeal of AP 23-0181, an administrative permit issued to James Becker for his home business, Tumbleweed Sugar Company at 177 Brook Hollow Rd in the ARZD.
Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org
SCHIP is seeking two candidates to join our dynamic team:
• Part Time Warehouse/ Merchandise Associate start 8/1/23
• Part Time Sales Associate start 8/1/23
For full job details and to learn more about our mission visit TheSchip.org
A Having a Garage Sale? Place a free classified. Call 802-373-2136. 50 word maximum. Deadline for submission: MONDAY. There is no guarantee of placement.
continued from page 1
represents a midway point in its work. This week, it launches a second phase of surveying residents with the goal of prioritizing potential community center elements. The new survey will be available online at www.willistoncommunity.com. Paper copies will be available at Town Hall, the REC Zone space and at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library. The survey will remain open through July 2.
“It’s critical that we hear from many voices as part of the conversation to understand what the people of Williston want to see,” Wells said. “We had great participation in the community conversations, and we are looking forward to receiving additional feedback with this survey.”
A final report is due to the selectboard and library board of trustees by the end of the year. The town is using money received through the federal American Rescue Plan Act to fund the study.
“Committee members have enjoyed talking to Williston residents and hearing their thoughts about community spaces, classes and events that will bring us together,” said Karla Karstens, steering committee chair and a member of the library board of trustees. “We hope a lot of people fill out the survey, which will help us determine the main priorities for community spaces and engagement in town.”
A water line failed under Industrial Avenue last Wednesday causing water to rise to the road surface, knocking out service to a swath of homes and businesses and closing the road for most of the day.
Another road closure is scheduled for Wednesday, June 14 to allow crews to complete the repair. The road is currently reopened with a temporary gravel crossing at the site of the break.
“The pipe deteriorated because rocks just ground holes through it,” Williston Public Works Director Bruce Hoar explained. “Rocks move and they move through mate-
continued from page 11
though to have a sunny, bright day with no blue sky.”
The only noticeable difference from any regular Tuesday was the haze coating the Adirondacks in the distance. But it wasn’t enough to alarm passersby.
“The haze over the lake looks unusual but not harmful. I haven’t coughed once,” Dean Lande, 76, said after finishing a walk along the Lake Champlain shore.
rial, especially on a road like Industrial Ave. There are a lot of heavy vehicles pounding up and down that road, so there is a lot of stuff going on under that pavement.”
The break was noticed in the early morning hours last Wednesday by a driver who happens to work for one of the town’s primary water main break contractors. He noticed water on the surface of the road and damage
Champlain Valley Union High School students Grace Thompson, Kaitlyn Jovell, Julie Pecor and Elise Berger even took the opportunity to picnic during the advisory.
As part of the school’s two-week learning experience at the end of the school year, they are working on a project focused on outdoor adventures — the perfect opportunity to assemble a board of cheese, salami, strawberries and crackers.
The group was aware of the warning, but they were not too worried about its potential consequences, noting that they hadn’t heard anything about it from their school.
to the pavement and knew there was a problem with the infrastructure below.
“Water came to the surface with enough force that it undermined and blew a big open hole into Industrial Avenue,” Hoar said. “On a road like that, someone is going to notice it pretty quickly. In this case it was a gentleman who works for the company who (fixes) most of our water breaks. He has our water supervisor’s phone number and called him directly.”
Water service was restored to homes and businesses in the area later that evening.
Next Wednesday’s road closure will begin at 6 a.m. Crews will dig up some of the gravel that was placed last Wednesday and repave the section of road. The road is expected to reopen by 8 p.m.
The only weather-related update they had received was about a baseball game being bumped up from 4:30 to 3:30 p.m. due to impending rain.
Though fears about Tuesday’s conditions remained low among the four students, the likelihood that these events would happen more regularly in the future concerned them. Thompson cited the smog caused by California wildfires in 2020 as a wake up call.
“It’s different that it’s close,” Thompson said. “I always thought Vermont was untouchable to that.”
“There is a lot of stuff going on under that pavement.”
Bruce Hoar Williston Public Works Director
