Brandon Benedict started this summer as the new Chittenden County Forester, succeeding Ethan Tapper, who left the position in June.
Benedict, a native of Rome, N.Y. who went to college in nearby Syracuse, moved into the position from South Carolina, where he worked on a federal forest census program that inventories forests nationwide. He moved to Vermont in March to first take the vacant Addison County Forester position, but just three months later transferred to Chittenden County.
County foresters in Vermont work under the Agency of Natural Resources’ Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
see FORESTER page 4
Unleashing smiles at the library
Therapy dogs attract an after-school crowd
BY INDIRA BUSH Special to the Observer
After the first day of school at Williston Central School, a group of eager students headed straight next door to the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library where an exciting friend was waiting. Rocko, the therapy dog, is a well-mannered golden retriever and a monthly feature at the library, with whom visitors have the option to read or just spend some quality time.
Bonnie Lord, the assistant library director and youth services librarian, says adults are welcome, but it does tend to be children who gravitate toward spending time with the dogs. According to Lord, the program started in 2005 as an opportunity to read to therapy
dogs, with the thought that it could “help with struggling and reluctant readers.”
Later on, librarians opened
it up to just hanging out with the dogs. Lord says, especially for older kids, reading around peers can be scary, but just hanging out
with dogs allows them to have a safe and judgment-free mental health break.
Each day after school, students come into a welcoming library space where they can read, listen to music, talk to friends and chat with Lord about books, games and whatever’s on their minds. Lord says that many of the students have been returning year after year.
A visit with Rocko, or fellow therapy dog Lola (who also visits the library once a month) has become another fun part of the day. The kids take turns with the dogs that amount to approximately ten-minute shifts. Each one waits patiently for their turn, and Lord gives the kid with the dog a “two-minute warning” so they know when to start getting ready to say goodbye to the furry friend.
CVSD launches superintendent search
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
With the start of the new school year comes the start of a search for a superintendent at the Champlain Valley School District.
The school board on Tuesday voted to charge its Human Resources and Labor Relations subcommittee with finding candidates for the district’s top leadership position. The committee has a Sept. 10 meeting planned to begin the search.
“The process will be thorough and involve all of our constituencies,” said committee chair Keith Roberts of Hinesburg.
Adam Bunting is filling the role
“The process will be thorough and involve all of our constituencies.”
Keith Roberts CVSD School Board
this school year as interim superintendent. He moved into the role when Rene Sanchez left the position in June. Bunting was previously the principal at CVU High School.
In preparation for taking on the task, the subcommittee updated its charter to include “the hiring, retention and evaluation of
the superintendent, with input and approval from the (school) board.”
The board approved the updated charter Tuesday, and dissolved a Superintendent Evaluation Committee that had previously conducted annual superintendent performance reviews.
Over the summer, the Human Resources and Labor Relations subcommittee solicited proposals from consultants for help conducting the superintendent search. Two bids were received — one from a firm founded by two retired Vermont school superintendents and another from a company out of Omaha, Neb.
The committee discussed the proposals at an August meeting but came to no decision whether to hire
one of the firms, at a cost of up to $20,000. On Tuesday, the board decided to pass on the proposals and keep the superintendent search inhouse with guidance from the district’s director of human resources, Laura Rice.
“She has done this kind of search before in prior roles and feels very confident doing it here as well,” said Roberts.
Rice allayed board member concerns about the potential for a conflict of interest as she leads a hiring process for which Bunting — her direct superior this year — will presumably be a candidate. She will be merely facilitating the search, she said, and “not be on the committee that’s making a decision.”
Therapy dog Rocko is an after-school attraction at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library for kids getting out of nearby Williston Central School. OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTO
Brandon Benedict was hired in June as the new Chittenden County Forester.
Around Town
VT Pride Parade and Festival Sept. 8
Vermont Pride Week, Sept. 1-8, culminates in the Burlington Pride Parade on Main Street Sunday, Sept. 8 at noon followed by the Pride Festival from 1-5 p.m. at Burlington’s Waterfront Park, featuring vendors, drag, burlesque, dance and musical performances and more.
To learn about all the week’s events, visit www.pridecentervt. org/pride.
Conference promotes student financial literacy
Registration has opened for the Vermont Jump$tart Coalition’s 16th annual Financial Ed -
ucation Conference taking place on Friday, Oct. 25 at the Capital Plaza Hotel and Conference Center in Montpelier.
The professional development and networking event targets those who teach or are planning to teach personal finance, business/entrepreneurship, math or social studies in middle or high school. Others interested in financial education in schools are also encouraged to join.
Learn more about the Vermont Jump$tart Coalition and how to register for this event at www.vermontjumpstart.com/.
Suicide prevention resources offered
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in
September, the Howard Center is drawing attention to a variety of services it offers, including free firearm cable locks to reduce access to lethal means, educational materials to help individuals recognize and respond to suicidal behavior and Suicide SafeCare educational videos for professionals on best practice strategies for screening and care coordination. To learn more about the available resources, visit howardcenter.org/ suicide-prevention.
Rotary announces September speaker calendar
The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club invites community members to join its Thursday breakfast meetings in September, when the group will host the following speakers:
• Sept. 5: Kelly Drew, Rotary district governor see AROUND TOWN page 3
Around Town
continued from page 2
• Sept. 12: Caitlin Bombardier of UVM Home Health & Hospice
• Sept. 19: Jennifer Vaughan and Stella Richards, handlers from New England K9 Search and Rescue
• Sept. 26: Deborah New of Vermont Community Thermal Networks
Optional breakfast is served at 7:15 a.m. and meetings commence at 7:30. If interested in joining in person or via Zoom, RSVP to RotaryClubofWillistonVT@gmail.com.
To learn more about the club visit www.portal.clubrunner. ca/1453/.
CVU Class of ’74 reunion planned
The CVU Class of 1974 is looking for class members for
its upcoming 50th high school reunion. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Eagles Club, 1233 Shelburne Rd. in South Burlington. Food and music are planned. If you are a member of the class, contact Kirk Smith at cvu74reunion@ gmail.com or (802) 578-5964.
Red Cross urges blood donations
The American Red Cross reports that it is experiencing a national blood supply emergency as severe weather events across the country have complicated efforts to rebuild the national blood supply. Those in unaffected areas are urged to make an appointment to give.
In Vermont, there are ample blood donation time slots available. To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-7332767).
All who come to give through Aug. 31 will get a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Those who come to give Sept. 1-15 will receive a Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.
Opportunity to honor a veteran
The Williston-Richmond Rotary Club is offering the opportunity to honor a beloved veteran with a custom-inscribed brick to be installed by the Town of Williston in the patio at the town’s War Memorial. The memorial, beside Town Hall, is the site of a special public observance each year to recognize veterans who
have served our country.
Two brick sizes are offered for purchase: 4-by-8 inches and 8-by-8 inches. Typical content includes the name, branch of service and dates for each veteran. Larger bricks may feature multiple veterans. Bricks may also include an optional emblem of the branch of service.
Place your brick order by
Sept. 6, and your brick will be installed at the War Memorial prior to Veterans Day, Nov. 11. An observance will be held that morning to dedicate the bricks and recognize veterans.
For more information and to receive order forms, call or email Phil Stevens at (802) 7347477 or philipsstevens@gmail. com.
Dogs
continued from page 1
Visitors can call and register for a time slot ahead of time, but Lord says that “in the school year, kids just come in and ask to look even if they weren’t signed up.” After a busy first day of school, it was hard for the kids to resist Rocko.
“The dogs are cute and relaxing. They ease the nerves,” says Oliver, who’s in eighth grade and has been visiting with the therapy dogs for about two and a half years. Hannah, who’s in fifth grade, has also been coming to hang out with the dogs for about two years. When asked why she loves them, she said: “ ‘Cause I love dogs and they’re really calm.”
Rocko sits or lies down patiently next to each visitor, allowing them to pet him.
“The dog has more patience than a person,” says sixth grader Lucy, who enjoys reading to the dogs.
Debbie Page, Rocko’s owner and handler, started getting involved with therapy dogs in retirement looking for a way to volunteer her time. Her husband suggested it due to Rocko’s calm temperament. As a retired elementary school teacher, Page says about the kids, “they need to relax and smile,” and she thinks that when hanging out with dogs, there is “something magical about the touch.”
“I think they get a kick out of him listening to them,” she said,
adding that she thinks Rocko likes their voices.
Page also takes Rocko to the Allen Brook School and a summer camp. Additionally, he goes to the hospital where he spends time with ICU staff. When talking about working with Rocko, Page smiles and says, “This is the best thing I’ve done in a while.”
“We’re very lucky,” says Lord, expressing her gratitude for the volunteer’s commitment.
When one dog retires, there always seems to be another willing to come in to see the kids. There’s something that keeps the kids and dogs coming back year after year.
Rocko wears a bandana that reads, “Unleash a smile.” It’s clear that he’s doing just that.
Forester
continued from page 1
Benedict was familiar with Vermont from childhood trips to visit with his grandmother, who lived in Bennington.
“I spent a lot of summers and vacations here and just kind of fell in love with it,” he said. “I was looking to come back to the Northeast, and when I saw the county forester position open up in Vermont, I got really excited.”
County foresters administer the state’s current use tax program, reviewing landowners’ forest management plans and conducting on-the-ground inspections to ensure compliance with state management practices. Landowners receive a tax break for forests that are in compliance.
Foresters also are a point of public contact for land management questions and a resource for promoting proper stewardship. While Tapper accomplished that aspect of the job through an active social media presence and articles in local newspapers (including the Observer), Benedict has no plans to create content.
He does, however, plan to follow Tapper’s work at Williston’s town-owned Catamount Community Forest. Last week, Benedict toured the property with members of the McCullough family, which sold the land to the town for conservation. Tapper was known to host educational walks of the property and last year set up a forestry research project in conjunction with the UVM forestry department.
“Ethan did a lot of great work
with the town forest. I’m very interested in picking up where he left off,” Benedict said.
The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation is taking the opportunity of the staff turnover to reassign some state forestry responsibilities. Benedict said he will be covering some parcels in Addison and Washington counties as well as in Chittenden. The goal is to spread the coverage more evenly over the state’s forestland, instead of being bound by county lines. There is more forest in the eastern part of the state than the western part, Benedict noted.
“Long term (the state is) looking to make things more equitable with coverage,” he said. “The goal is to make everyone have an equal amount of coverage, so we can all deliver the same level of attention to the public.”
Advocates raise concern about PFAS from GlobalFoundries
BY EMMA COTTON VTDigger
A coalition of environmental groups is raising concerns about the presence of PFAS chemicals in effluent from GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Essex Junction. The plant routinely discharges into the Winooski River.
The organization Chips Communities United issued a statement Tuesday morning calling attention to the levels of PFAS, shown in data collected by the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation, using the numbers to back a call for further investigation of other semiconductor plants elsewhere in the country. PFAS are also called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally in the environment.
“We don’t know of any safe level, so we don’t think that companies should be dumping very toxic forever chemicals into waterways,” said Judith Barish, a coalition director with Chips Communities United. “They should be cleaning it up at the point of use.”
The organization, based in Washington D.C., was founded to ensure that federal investments funneled toward semiconductor manufacturers are implemented in a way that is “equitable and sustainable,” Barish said.
Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation began collecting data about PFAS from GlobalFoundries’ effluent in 2021 then expanded the data collection by including more types of PFAS in October 2023.
GlobalFoundries spokesperson Gina DeRossi said in a written statement that the company’s initial analysis suggests that
some claims within the Chips Communities United statement “are misleading.”
“As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce or eliminate the use and discharge of PFAS in our semiconductor manufacturing processes, we have already replaced the most concerning materials, and we have ongoing projects to reduce the wastewater discharge concentrations at our Essex Junction facility.” DeRossi wrote in the statement.
“GF remains committed to our continuing environmental efforts and finding ways to reduce or eliminate the use and discharge of PFAS,” she wrote.
Matt Chapman, director of the department’s Waste Management and Prevention Division, said GlobalFoundries reached out to the department in mid-May after seeing the results and has developed a response plan. The department does not see the effluent levels as an immediate safety concern, he said.
The company is looking to replace PFAS in one part of its manufacturing process, Chapman said. In addition, it plans to build a “PFAS waste-specific disposal line that will go to a storage tank where they’ll manage that waste stream outside of their industrial waste discharge stream” and find an appropriate way to dispose of it, he said.
The second part of GlobalFoundries’ plan is included in a permit modification that the department recently granted.
There are no state or federal limits for the amount of PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, that industries can discharge into local waterways, though drinking water limits are in place. Vermont is one of the only states that requires semiconductor manufacturers to report the PFAS they send into the environment.
Broadband’s role in solving climate change
Place your order online or email afrey202@gmail.com
BY CHRISTINE HALQUIST AND TEE THOMAS
Vermonters are suffering from damage caused by catastrophic flooding for the second summer in a row. There is no denying that climate change is a problem that needs to be addressed. Broadband is part of the solution.
While the connection between broadband investments and climate change may not be immediately apparent, a closer look reveals a powerful connection between the two areas. Without substantial investments in broadband infrastructure, every single dollar the U.S. is investing in renewable energy, transportation and “smartgrid” infrastructure is limited to connected urban and suburban areas, and missing an opportunity for nationwide impact. Investments in broadband are critical to the development of
smart infrastructure and expanded energy efficiency. Smart grids, enabled by broadband connectivity, allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy consumption. This enables utilities to optimize energy distribution, reduce waste and integrate renewable energy sources more effectively.
By promoting energy efficiency, broadband investments directly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This has immediate implications for energy utilities and the water sector, specifically relative to the further embrace of smart technology, the ability to address staffing shortages and conservation practices.
Without fiber optic broadband
Halquist/Thomas
connections, it is not possible to decarbonize the energy sector. We must increase renewable energy at least sevenfold to fully transition our entire energy portfolio from fossil fuels. The problem is the sun does not shine constantly, and the wind does not blow constantly. Usually, renewable generation from wind and solar does not match the load. We cannot tie our energy usage directly to supply.
Therefore, we need to add energy storage to the grid. Energy storage is still quite expensive and has its own set of environmental challenges. Energy storage alone should not be viewed as the “magic bullet.” It is just part of the solution.
We need to couple renewable energy with storage and manage the relationship between supply and demand with an extremely responsive, highly reliable telecommunications network. That network requires fiber-optic communications between the electric grid and the plug load (i.e., electric vehicles, heating, air conditioning and other high-demand electrical consumers). This is what is defined as the smart grid.
In short, a greener, more sustainable future is a combination of more renewables, enhanced energy storage and fiber optic broadband that seamlessly stitches together renewables and energy storage.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND THE SMART GRID
Fast-charging electric vehicles strain electrical networks, requiring rapid grid response. This responsiveness can only be achieved through fiber-optic networks. Expansive fiber-optic broadband cable networks also can result in more efficient use of the electric grid to manage supply and demand in real time, allowing for a more reliable system. An extremely responsive and highly reliable telecommunications network is based on reliable fiber-optic communications between electric grid and high-demand electrical consumers like electric vehicles.
The smart grid is an electricity network that uses digital technologies, sensors and software to better match the supply and demand of electricity in real time while minimizing costs and maintaining the stability and reliability of the grid. The nationwide push for more electric vehicles and investment in electric vehicle infrastructure must be coupled with broadband investments to ensure the infrastructure is reliable, responsive and eases consumer adoption.
PRECISION AGRICULTURE AND SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
In the agricultural sector, broadband
connectivity is a game-changer. Precision agriculture, facilitated by high-speed internet access, enables farmers to deploy technology driven solutions for optimal resource management. This includes precision irrigation, crop monitoring and data driven decision making. By embracing sustainable farming practices made possible by broadband, the agricultural sector can reduce its environmental footprint, conserve water and contribute to climate resilience.
REMOTE WORK AND TELECOMMUTING
The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, highlighting the importance of robust broadband infrastructure. As more people work from home, the demand for high-speed internet has surged. By facilitating remote work and reducing the need for daily commutes, broadband helps decrease carbon emissions associated with transportation. A well-established broadband network empowers individuals and businesses to contribute to climate change mitigation by embracing flexible work arrangements.
E-LEARNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
As education becomes increasingly digital, broadband plays a crucial role in providing access to educational resources. Through e-learning platforms, individuals can access environmental education and awareness programs. A well-informed populace is more likely to support and engage in sustainable practices, leading to a collective effort toward reducing carbon emissions. Broadband investments thus become a catalyst for environmental education and awareness.
A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The connection between broadband investments and climate change is multifaceted. By promoting remote work, enabling smart infrastructure, fostering sustainable agriculture, supporting environmental education and facilitating vehicle and appliance electrification, broadband is a crucial tool in our collective efforts to solve climate change.
As we invest in building resilient and high-speed broadband networks, we are not just connecting people, we are building a foundation for a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Christine Hallquist is executive director of the Vermont Community Broadband Board and former CEO of Vermont Electric Cooperative. Tee Thomas is CEO of Washington D.C.-based Quantified Ventures and former water finance director for the State of Vermont.
Working Together to Address Vermont’s Health Care Challenges
As Vermont’s population ages and in many places declines, we’re seeing the impact in all aspects of our daily lives—whether it’s housing, education or health care.
What’s the core problem in Vermont’s health care system? At its most simple, the number of people paying for care through commercial insurance is going down (and getting older and sicker), while nationally and locally the demand for care and the cost to provide care is going up.
This trend is unsustainable and to address it, care providers, insurers and government will need to avoid the divisive brinkmanship we see on the national stage and embrace Vermont values of community and collaboration to find the solutions that increase access to care and lower costs overall.
At University of Vermont Medical Center, we know controlling costs is a key part of the above equation and a part of our nonprofit mission. Multiple sets of independent data show that when it comes to administrative costs, we’re one of the financially leanest academic medical centers in the Northeast. This isn’t by accident—as part of UVM Health Network, we’ve put a lot of work into reducing costs through efficiency—sharing administrative staff and as we become unified, even sharing providers. This improves care for patients across our region while controlling costs.
To support our vital work, on August 28, we presented to our regulator, the Green Mountain Care Board, our commercial rate increase request of 7.91% for FY25, which begins on October 1. Our proposed budget for the next fiscal year includes a number of significant initiatives supporting our patients and communities, including:
• Strengthening access to care: We’ve significantly reduced the number of patients waiting for necessary surgeries this year by performing a record number of procedures month after month. We’ve expanded capacity for imaging, added mental health services into primary care offices, and increased the availability of virtual consults. In the coming months, primary care will see significant changes and expansion in terms of access.
• Investing to meet patient needs: As our population ages and grows, demand for more complex services will only continue to increase. We’re working hard to be ready for the needs of our communities. One example of this is increasing available imaging equipment to drive down wait times.
• Investing in our employees: We recently ratified a nursing contract, increasing wages by 23% over the next three years, and we are also investing in nationally recognized workforce development programs to recruit and retain the talented people we need to deliver the highestquality care. The minimum wage at UVMMC is now $20/hour. We have also made investments in childcare and housing to attract and retain our workforce.
• Controlling our costs and addressing affordability: We’ve expanded financial assistance programs to ensure no one is denied care due to financial constraints. Last fiscal year, across our health system, these programs covered more than $22 million in the cost of care and nearly $6 million in prescription drugs for patients in Vermont. We are very focused on doing our best to make sure we are responsible stewards of Vermonter’s health care dollars—including tight cost control and finding alternative sources of revenue to ultimately reduce premiums. This work reduced our FY25 rate increase ask by $31 million.
These efforts are crucial, but they are not enough on their own. We need help from every part of our society to make Vermonters healthier. We need to find new ways to fund health care and we need a stronger continuum of care—especially when we discuss caring for the most vulnerable among us.
We look forward to a continued conversation with our partners throughout the system to leverage every opportunity to take pressure off commercial insurance premiums in Vermont. None of it will be easy, but it can be done. It will take collaboration from our state government, regulator, insurers and the hospital system to make progress on affordability while preserving access to trusted local care.
To learn more about the impact of our work across UVM Health Network, please visit UVMHealthImpact.org. We’re in this together, and by working collaboratively, we can overcome the challenges ahead.
Dorothy Alling Memorial Library hours:
• Monday and Wednesday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Summer Saturday hours, Aug, 31: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Regular Saturday hours start Sept. 7: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.damlvt.org to apply for a library card and to register for programs requiring registration. Need help? Call 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org. Please note the library will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2 in observance of Labor Day.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age.
SATURDAY MUSIC
Saturday, Aug. 31, 10:30-11:00 a.m. Sing with Linda on the Town Green.
STORYTIME
Tuesdays, Sept. 3 and 10, 10:30-11 a.m. Drop in for stories and fun on the Town Green.
BABY TIME
Wednesday, Sept. 4, 10:30-11 a.m. Come together for gentle bonding and social activities with your baby.
AFTER SCHOOL GAMES
Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2-3 p.m. Have fun with different board games after school.
MUSIC AND PLAYTIME
Thursdays, Sept. 5 & 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Sing with Linda then stay to play! On the Town Green.
TEENS DUNGEONS & DRAGONS
Friday, Sept. 6, 4:30-6 p.m. Ages 12-plus. Join our campaign. All experience levels welcome. If you’re new to playing and would like help creating a character, stop in early to get helpful resources.
SATURDAY STORYTIME
Saturday, Sept. 7, 10:30-11 a.m. Start see LIBRARY page 14
Stephen M. Leffler, MD, President and Chief Operating Officer, University of Vermont Medical Center
SAVVY SENIOR
Does Medicare cover cataract surgery?
Dear Savvy Senior, How does Medicare cover cataract surgery? My eye doctor recently told me I’ve developed cataracts and should consider making plans for surgery in the next year or so.
Almost 67
Dear Almost,
Like gray hair and wrinkles, cataracts are an inevitable part of the aging process. Eventually, everyone (usually in their 60s) will develop cataracts, a condition that causes cloudy or blurry vision. The only way to correct this is through cataract surgery.
Fortunately, Medicare does cover medically necessary cataract surgery, which includes removing the cataract and implanting a standard intraocular lens (IOL). This is a small, lightweight, clear disk that replaces the focusing power of the eye’s natural crystalline lens to restore clear vision. This procedure is performed using traditional surgical techniques or lasers.
This coverage can be a substantial savings, since cataract surgery often costs about $1,800 to $2,800 per eye.
Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure, covered under Medicare Part B. Once you pay the annual Part B deductible, which is $240 in 2024, you’re responsible for the Part B coinsurance.
That means you’ll pay 20 percent of the cost for covered services yourself. If you have a Medicare supplemental policy, also known as Medigap, you’ll have full or partial coverage for the 20 percent Part B coinsurance.
If you happen to be enrolled in a private Medicare Advantage plan, rather than original Medicare, you’ll also have coverage for cataract surgery. However, you may have to pay different deductibles or copayments and need to use an in-network provider. You’ll need to call your plan to find out its coverage details before you schedule surgery.
WHAT’S NOT COVERED
Be aware that Medicare only covers cataract surgery with stan-
dard (monofocal) intraocular lenses, which improves vision at just one distance so you may still need glasses for close-up vision. Medicare will not cover premium (multifocal) intraocular lenses that can correct vision far away, up close and in between, so you can go glasses-free after surgery.
Premium interocular lenses are expensive, costing approximately $1,500 to $4,000 per eye, which you would be responsible for if you choose to upgrade. Talk with your doctor about your options and costs before your surgery.
ARE EYEGLASSES COVERED?
Even though Medicare usually doesn’t cover eyeglasses or contact lenses, it will pay 80 percent for one set of corrective glasses or contacts after cataract surgery. Medicare, however, limits its coverage to standard eyeglass frames and lenses. If you want to get deluxe frames, progressive or tinted lenses or scratch-resistant coating for glasses, you’ll need to pay those costs yourself. Medicare also requires that
By Jim Miller
you purchase the glasses or contacts from a Medicare-approved supplier. Also, if you have any post-surgery complications or problems that are deemed medically necessary to address by a doctor, Medicare covers those expenses too. Any drops, antibiotics or other medication prescribed after your surgery would be covered by Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.
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.
Don't Miss Mississippi
Mini Fact: The Mississippi River borders or flows through 10 states.
Next Week: $ Money $
Working for change
Many historical figures in the civil rights movement got their start in Mississippi. They include:
Mississippi became our 20th state when it entered the Union in 1817. The state in the Deep South was the second to secede, or separate, from the Union before the Civil War. Early history
Several American Indian tribes lived in the area before Europeans arrived, including the Choctaw, Chickasaw and Natchez. The Natchez Indians were almost completely wiped out by the French and never recovered. Today, most Natchez people are found in Oklahoma.
Hernando de Soto was the first European to explore the area, in 1540, claiming it for Spain. More than 100 years later, the French claimed the region.
After the French and Indian War in the mid1700s, the British gained control of the area. Mississippi today
About 3 million people live in the Magnolia State. The largest city and capital is Jackson, with a metro area of about 600,000 people.
Although cotton was a huge crop for Mississippi before the Civil War, the state fell behind afterward because its leaders would not invest in infrastructure (like roads and railroads), public education and development of industries.
As a result, the state still ranks last in income and 49th in education.
Today, automobile plants in Mississippi make Toyota and Nissan cars. Other products made there include processed meats, grain and dairy products and beverages. People also work in furniture-making.
Living in Mississippi
Mississippi is thought to be the birthplace of the blues, a type of music that sprang from the songs of slaves as they worked in the fields. Elvis Presley, known as the king of rock ‘n’ roll, was born in Tupelo; his music was inspired by the blues.
Mississipians are no strangers to hurricanes. Not only does the state border the Gulf of Mexico, but almost all of its territory is considered lowlands, on average only 90 meters above sea level. The most recent damaging hurricane was Katrina in 2005, with wind gusts of 134 mph.
Mississippi’s Petrified Forest in Flora is thought to have formed 36 million years ago when a flooding river snatched trees out of the ground. The sections of trunk were buried in debris from the flood. Over time, they decayed and then petrified into stone logs.
• Ida B. Wells was born into slavery in Holly Springs in 1862. She was one of the founders of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People); she was also a journalist and teacher. Wells fought for women's rights, including the right to vote. She died in Chicago in 1931.
• Medgar Evers was the NAACP’s first field secretary in Mississippi. He was born in Decatur in 1925. Evers worked to integrate the University of Mississippi Law School. He was assassinated, or killed, at his home in Jackson in 1963.
Try ’n’ Find
• Ruby Bridges was born in Tylertown in 1954. You may have seen pictures of her as a 6-yearold as she integrated an elementary school in New Orleans. Today, Bridges is the chair of the Ruby Bridges Foundation, which promotes "the values of tolerance, respect and appreciation of all differences." Words that remind us of Mississippi are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
Founded by Betty Debnam Issue 35, 2024
photo by Christopher Barnette Ida B. Wells
Ruby Bridges
Elvis Presley
Medgar Evers
railroads), public education and development of industries.
As a result, the state still ranks last in income and 49th in education.
of the ground. The sections of trunk were buried in debris from the flood. Over time, they decayed and then petrified into stone logs.
Try ’n’ Find
Words that remind us of Mississippi are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
BRIDGES, CIVIL WAR, EDUCATION, ELVIS, EVERS, GULF, HURRICANE, INFRASTRUCTURE, LOWLANDS, MAGNOLIA, MEXICO, MISSISSIPPI, NATCHEZ, PETRIFIED, RIVER, SECEDE, UNION, WELLS.
Cook’s Corner
Easy Cheesy Cake
You’ll need:
• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1 (2-pound) carton ricotta cheese
• 4 eggs
What to do:
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
1. Prepare lemon cake mix according to directions on box, but do not bake.
2. Pour batter into a greased 9-by-13-inch pan.
3. Combine remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well.
4. Pour cheese mixture evenly over batter.
5. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. When cool, cut into squares. Serves 8.
You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.
River" by Colleen Sexton
Mini Jokes
Malcolm: What has four eyes but cannot see? Margaret: Mississippi!
Eco Note
Israeli scientists say a marine pandemic that has violently wiped out the Red Sea’s sea urchin population in just a matter of months is now spreading rapidly. The deaths were first noticed in the Gulf of Aqaba and have quickly spread southward into the Indian Ocean and eastward toward Southeast Asia. The same parasite responsible for the deaths also killed 95% of the urchins in the Caribbean two years ago. The urchins are known as the “gardeners” of the sea because they trim algae off coral reefs that otherwise block sunlight, allowing the coral to thrive.
For later:
Look in your newspaper for articles that mention Mississippi.
Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!
Brevity by dan Thompson
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1949, the Soviet Union conducted its first atomic bomb test.
• In 1957, Democratic Sen. Strom Thurmond of South Carolina concluded his over 24-hour-long filibuster against the Civil Rights Act of 1957.
In 1991, the parliament of the Soviet Union suspended all Communist Party activities.
• In 2005, Category 3 storm Hurricane Katrina made landfall near New Orleans.
TODAY’S FACT:
• Strom Thurmond’s 1957 civil rights filibuster remains the longest one-man filibuster in history. It lasted 24 hours, 18 minutes and opened with Thurmond reading the voting laws of all 48 states.
1 give 2 weeks’ notice (4)
2 it has a “rule of 3” (6)
3 “5 o’clock” facial growth (6)
4 the 7 dwarfs’ workplace (4)
5 claiming chapter 11 (8)
6 “Apollo 13” director Ron (6)
7 its atomic number is 17 (8)
July 21 at 1:32 a.m. — Burglary reported at Simon’s. No suspects yet found.
July 21 at 4:35 p.m. — Assisted Williston Rescue with male who overdosed. Male refused services.
July 22 at 1:34 a.m. — Assisted Essex Police Department with an officer assault. Suspects fled and have not been located.
July 22 at 10:52 a.m. — Report of a male threatening employees at Walmart. Male was moved along.
July 22 at 2:16 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Two females were issued citations to appear in court for retail theft.
July 22 at 4:05 p.m. — Assisted Williston Rescue with an unresponsive juvenile. Juvenile regained consciousness and was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
July 23 at 2:22 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Female suspect has not been
located.
July 23 at 3:47 p.m. — Report of a wallet that was stolen out of a car on Holland Lane.
July 23 at 5:15 p.m. — Death investigation conducted. Nothing suspicious.
July 23 at 7:00 p.m. — Report of an intoxicated male on Zephyr Road causing a disturbance. Male was transported to the correctional facility for detox.
July 24 at 3:48 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Style Encore. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
July 24 at 7:56 p.m. — Assisted with locating missing dogs. Dogs were located and returned to owner.
July 25 at 5:10 a.m. — Damaged ATV located on the side of the road. ATV was stolen from Roadside Motorsports. Case is still under investigation.
July 25 at 8:30 a.m. — Report
of a female going through vehicles on Seymour Street. Female was gone upon arrival.
July 25 at 4:13 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Hannaford. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
July 25 at 11:12 p.m. — Following a traffic stop, male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 26 at 3:11 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Home Depot. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
July 26 at 6:52 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Walmart. Female suspect had an active arrest warrant and was also issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
July 27 at 5:49 p.m. — Assisted Vermont State Police with locating stolen vehicle at Shaw’s.
July 27 at 5:56 p.m. — Located stolen vehicle at Shaw’s. Vehicle was returned to owner.
Officers also conducted 35 traffic stops and responded to 11 alarm activations and eight motor vehicle crashes during this time frame.
The Town of Hinesburg, Vermont seeks qualified applicants for the following positions:
Highway Foreperson
This is a supervisory position that is responsible for overseeing and participating in the maintenance of the town’s highway infrastructure. A valid VT issued CDL Class B license is required. Required skills include proficient operation of a road grader, excavator, front-end loader, backhoe, and tandem plow truck. Starting pay is $34.00 - $40.00 an hour depending upon qualifications.
Highway Maintainer
This is a semi-skilled position of moderate complexity in highway maintenance and equipment operation. A Highway Maintainer 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 $25.00 - $28.00 an hour depending upon qualifications.
Both positions provide health, dental, vision and disability insurance; paid time off; pension plan; and 13 paid holidays. Detailed information and an application form can be found at www.hinesburg.org under the employment tab. Applications can be mailed or delivered to Todd Odit, Town Manager, 10632 Route 116 or emailed to todit@hinesburg.org.
The Town of Hinesburg offers a comprehensive benefits package and very competitive pay. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Applications will be reviewed as received and accepted until the position is filled.
South Burlington School District
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS
Interventionist: Provides educational and personal support to PK-12 students. Associate’s degree or 60 college credits preferred. Training provided.
Bus Drivers: Transports students over established routes and special trips. Commercial Drivers license (CDL) class B, Senior Vermont Operator’s license with Vermont School Bus Endorsement required. CDL training provided to otherwise qualifying candidates.
Substitutes: Bus Drivers, Van Drivers (no CDL required), Teacher and support positions also available.
Please apply through SchoolSpring.com (Keyword: South Burlington School District) or contact Elissa Galvez, HR Employment Specialist, (802) 652-7247 or egalvez@sbschools.net.
We’re proud to be Community Bankers!
Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is honored to be one of the largest local banks in Vermont We are committed to providing a work environment where all individuals feel welcomed and appreciated. You belong at NSB!
Join the Commercial Banking team in our Chittenden County Region as a Commercial Banking Administrator ! For the BUILDERS | MAKERS | DOERS® out there –make your final career move to NSB!
On average, NSB employees have over nine years of service! When you join the NSB Team, you become part of an energetic and talented group that strives to strengthen the communities we serve every day.
Summary & Requirements
Support the lending teams by performing a variety of administrative functions. Build strong customer relationships and support the execution of commercial loans.
High School Diploma, General Education Degree (GED) or equivalent and one to two years’ related experience is required.
Why NSB?
We provide a supportive and diverse work environment where employee contributions are recognized and valued. Compensation packages are competitive based on experience. We provide a well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing! Excellent retirement 401(k) & ROTH employer match program. Volunteerism, Community Events, and Employee Engagement! Apply today!
NSB is actively seeking to create a more diversified workforce because we believe our team is stronger with different perspectives and experiences. We welcome and encourage applications from a wide range of candidates.
Send an NSB Application & Resume in confidence to: careers@NSBVT.com
your weekend off with Cindy’s Storytime.
AFTER SCHOOL MOVIE
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2-4 p.m.
PG. What would you do if saving the world meant you had to find the last dragon?
LEGO TIME
Thursday, Sept. 12, 3-4 p.m. Create something fun with the library’s LEGO collection.
ADULT PROGRAMS
For online programs or to join a book club, email daml@damlvt.
org.
MONTHLY SPICE CLUB: LOVAGE
Stop by to pick up this month’s featured spice Lovage, information about tasting notes, suggestions for use and a few recipes to try. Send us a picture of your culinary creation. (While supplies last.)
ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)
Friday, Aug. 30, 12-12:30 p.m. Get in touch with your peaceful body and breath.
TECH TUTOR
Tuesday, Sept. 3, 1-4 p.m. Call to book a one-hour appointment for help with your tech.
SPANISH (ONLINE)
Wednesday Sept. 4, 5-6 p.m.
Spanish is back after a summer break. All levels are welcome to join.
ADULT RPG: WHITE BOX
Thursday, Sept. 4, 5:30-8 p.m.
Join our two-hour fantasy role playing game for adults. Register online for details.
ADULT CRAFTERNOON: BEESWAX WRAP
Thursday Sept. 5, 2-3 p.m. Make your own Beeswax wrap. Register online.
MEDITATION (SPECIAL IN-PERSON SESSION)
Friday, Sept. 6, 12-1 p.m. Join us at the library for reminiscing, meditation and light refreshments as we introduce books curated in
honor of our beloved volunteer meditation leader Maryellen Crangle.
MAH JONGG
Friday Sept. 6, 1:30-3 p.m.
Join other community members in playing this fun tile game. All levels are welcome. (Note delayed start time for this session.)
MYSTERY MAKING WITH SISTERS IN CRIME NEW ENGLAND
Saturday, Sept. 7, 1-3 p.m.
Three New England mystery writers take suggestions from the audience to create a brand new mystery on the fly. Join the improv fun with writers DonnaRae Menard, Martha “Max” Folsom and Karen
Lakis (aka Kara Lacey).
CURRENT EVENTS
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Drop in to discuss timely topics with other community members.
LIFE STORIES (ONLINE)
Wednesday Sept. 4, 2 p.m. Tune in online to hear and share stories from our lives.
BOARD AT THE LIBRARY (NEW!)
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 6-7:30 p.m. Drop in to play a board game with us. This month’s game is Codenames — a fun group game where teams work together to contact their agents before the other team.
However, treatment with the rabies vaccine is nearly 100 percent effective when given soon after a person is bitten by a rabid animal.
So far this year, 23 animals in Vermont have tested positive for rabies, and 14 of those have been raccoons.
is a deadly viral disease of the brain that infects mammals. It is most often seen in raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, but unvaccinated pets and livestock can also get rabies.
According to wildlife officials, rabid animals often show a change in their normal behavior, but you cannot tell whether an animal has rabies simply by looking at it. People should not touch or pick up wild animals or strays – even baby animals.
Tackling 2024
CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s John Saladino reaches for a Fair Haven running back during the Redhawks’ preseason round robin football jamboree in Hinesburg on Saturday. Ryan Wood wraps up a Fair Haven running back. Alex Jovell makes a spectacular leaping catch for a touchdown. Orion Yates takes the snap.
Providing Peace of Mind for Families and Loved Ones
New field goals
CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Chloe Tomasi drives the ball up field during the Redhawks’ preseason scrimmage vs. the Essex Hornets in Hinesburg on Friday. Cordelia Thomas gets the ball past an Essex defender. Mackenzie Love defends the ball. Alex Wemple takes a shot on a penalty corner.
