parking to move north of building, facing WCS, plans show
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
An expanded Dorothy Alling Memorial Library means a shrunken Williston Town Green.
But volunteers working with a local architect on remodeling the library have broadened the scope of the project to incorporate improvements to what is Williston Village’s primary community space.
“It’s a very important place in Williston so we’re trying to be sensitive to how much of that green won’t exist for public use anymore and how we might be able to enhance the use of what’s left,” said John Hemmelgarn, an architect with Black River Design and longtime Williston resident who is designing the library expansion for the town. “We’re looking to create some more engaging spaces on the green, even though we know there will be less space there.”
A portion of the green will be chewed up by the planned expansion of the library, construction that will add a two-story addition to the north side of the building, according to preliminary plans. Another chunk of green space will be paved to create a 20-space parking lot. The parking and front entrance will move to the two-story addition side, facing Williston Central School.
The latest architectural plans are set to be reviewed by the Library Board of Trustees at a Sept. 16 meeting and by the Williston Selectboard the following evening, Sept. 17, at Town Hall.
Karla Karstens, a library trustee who is working with Hem-
The parking and main entrance to the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library will move to the north side of the building facing WCS under expansion plans being considered by the library trustees. Plans also include improvements to the Town Green, where a gazebo provides event space.
melgarn on the design, updated the trustees at an August meeting.
“We are making some exciting progress,” she said. “It’s not just expanding the library, it’s re-envisioning the green, making it a vibrant area.”
The Town Green is the site of July Fourth festivities, town band concerts, library events and an annual town fair. In addition to the library, it is home to a gazebo, historic schoolhouse and a statue of Vermont’s first governor, Thomas Chittenden.
Some enhancements under consideration include new paths and seating areas.
“There are a lot of things there that can be improved,” Hemmelgarn said, noting that some of the trees on the green will be removed.
The library’s interior will also be redesigned with the added floor space. Library Director Jane Kearns said she has so far seen three versions of potential floor plans; they all include a larger lobby at the new main entrance.
The town already put federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds into an initial feasibility study of the project, and administrators are now considering how to fund the multi-million dollar construction. A vote of residents, as soon as Town Meeting Day 2025, on borrowing funds is one likely strategy. The town is also working with Burlington consultant CPG Fundraising on studying whether and how to launch a fundraising campaign focusing on major philanthropists.
“Having the scope opened up to the green might engage a different donor base,” Town Manager Erik Wells told the library trustees at their Aug. 19 meeting.
He expects to have a refined cost estimate by the end of the year.
Library director to step down in December
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
Jane Kearns, the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library’s director for the past five years, has announced her retirement at the end of December.
Kearns, 65, started in November, 2019, and a few months later was forced into wholesale operational changes brought on by the pandemic.
Library staff learned how to conduct programs online, hold virtual staff meetings and circulate materials via drop-offs in the lobby.
She leaves with the library on the cusp of a major expansion (see related story, above), having helped guide designs for the layout of a planned two-story addition to the building. She also helped the Library Board of Trustees formulate a new strategic plan, which is expected to be finalized in November.
“The time felt right. It felt like the end of a few milestones in these long processes,” she said.
Town Manager Erik Wells plans to begin advertising for a new director next week and work with the library trustees to make a selection for a new
director to start in early 2025.
“I want to congratulate Jane on her retirement and thank her for her five years of dedicated service as director of the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library,” Wells said. “Jane saw the library through the challenges of Covid-19 and has been instrumental in the planning for the future of the space and overall strategic planning. Jane leads by empowering her staff to be their best. She has made a lasting impact on our Williston community.”
A native of Montreal, Kearns has lived in the U.S. since 1993. She cur-
rently resides in Charlotte and has no immediate plans to leave the area. Her husband has been retired for six years.
“They say don’t do anything for a year, so I think that’s what we’ll do,” she said. “We love Vermont so we’ll probably just stay put for a while.”
Kearns came to the job with a background in academic libraries. It was her first time working in a public library. She expressed gratitude for the support of the trustees, patrons, staff and volunteers.
“It’s bittersweet leaving,” she said. “It has been really interesting and fun.”
Jane Kearns
Around Town
Williston Energy Fair upcoming
The Williston Energy Committee will be hosting an Energy Fair at Williston Central School on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 1-4 p.m. The event offers a chance to see a wide range of electric vehicles, talk to owners about their buying and ownership experience, and find out how an electric vehicle can fit your life and budget.
Also, speak with energy committee members and representatives
from Green Mountain Power, Vermont Gas Systems, a variety of solar companies and weatherization and heat pump contractors.
There will be raffle prizes and free ice cream. For more information, email energy@willistonvt.org.
Church hosts corn roast and sundaes
Williston Federated Church will host its annual corn roast and sundae event on Sept. 15 — a farewell to summer and return of its senior choir. The ceremony begins at 9:30
a.m. with a worship service followed by a gathering on the church lawn. Corn on the cob, burgers, hot dogs, watermelon and ice cream sundaes will be served. Following the corn roast, families with children are invited to a youth choir informational meeting. This is a free event, and all are welcome.
Richmond Congregational Church hosts rummage sale
Richmond Congregational Church at 20 Church St., in Richmond, will host a rummage sale Oct. 4-5. Times are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Oct. 4 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Oct. 5. Call (802) 434-2053 for more information.
F-35 Airmen depart for Austria
al Guard’s third partner country through the State Partnership Program, which links state national guards with a partner nation’s military, security forces and disaster response organizations in a cooperative relationship.
Town of St. George seeks volunteers
The Town of St. George has a number of vacancies on town boards and commissions. Serving is a way to get involved, ask questions, give input, help make decisions and support the community. Current opportunities include, selectboard member (includes stipend), planning commission member and development review board member.
Contact Justin Mason at boards@stgeorgevt.com with interest.
No Garbage” at a Sept. 24 event at Faith United Methodist Church, 899 Dorset St., in South Burlington. Schaub spent a year attempting to live in the modern world without creating any trash. In her book, she argues that modern recycling is broken and single stream recycling is a lie, that flushable wipes aren’t flushable and compostables aren’t compostable, and that plastic drives climate change, fosters racism and is poisoning the environment and our bodies.
The event begins at 1 p.m.
Financial assistance available for childcare
Synergy Legal Service, PLLC focuses on preparing Vermonters’ Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Advance Directives for reasonable rates.
Synergy Legal Service, PLLC Johanna Laba, Esq. Contact us at: 802-556-4266, Email: jlaba@synergylegalservice.com PO Box 3126, 1127 North Ave., Burlington, VT 05408-3126
Vermont Air National Guard pilots departed in F-35s for Austria on Wednesday morning to participate in an air show and multinational training exercises.
Austria is the Vermont Nation-
Burlington Garden Club presents ‘All About Plastics’
Author and speaker Eva Schaub will discuss her 2023 book “Year of
The Vermont Department for Children and Families is offering to help cover the cost of regulated childcare, preschool, afterschool or summer programs. More families now qualify for tuition assistance based on family size and income. To learn more and find out if your family qualifies, visit dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/ccfap.
Mosquito-based virus comes to Vermont
What you need to know about eastern equine encephalitis
BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger
A blood-sucking creature that comes at dusk is frightening Vermonters this summer.
No, it’s not a vampire. It’s Culiseta melanura — one mosquito species responsible for spreading the eastern equine encephalitis virus, a rare and sometimes fatal disease.
A man in New Hampshire died of the disease in August, and a person in Chittenden County has recently tested positive for the virus. That case and an uptick in mosquitoes turning up with the virus led the Vermont Department of Health to issue an advisory last week recommending that Vermonters in several northwestern Vermont communities stay inside from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Those high-risk areas include Alburgh, Colchester, Swanton and Burlington, the state’s largest city. Several Burlington events, including Oktoberfest and the Intervale Center’s Summervale, have been canceled over EEE concerns.
Other events, like Burlington’s Twilight series, are scrambling to find indoor locations, according to mayor’s office spokesperson Joe Magee. Schools in high-risk areas are moving around sports practices and back-to-school events to protect against the virus, Vermont Public reported.
VTDigger spoke with Patsy Kelso, the state epidemiologist, to learn more about EEE and its spread in Vermont.
Eastern equine encephalitis is a severe disease caused by a virus found in several species of animals and spread through two different species of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes pick up the virus from biting and feeding on birds, then pass along the virus to humans and horses, Kelso said.
EEE is not new to the region. It is
more common in eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but Vermont has had waves of outbreaks in humans and animals, Kelso said. The last fatalities were in 2012, when two people died in Rutland County.
Vermont did not detect the virus in mosquitoes or humans from 2016 to 2022. Then in 2023, 14 mosquito pools tested positive and one horse died of the virus.
One important distinction when discussing EEE is that not everyone who gets the virus shows symptoms, and not everyone who shows symptoms gets encephalitis, the most severe complication of the disease, Kelso said.
In fact, most people with the virus do not develop symptoms. If they do, the incubation period is typically around four to 10 days, when they typically start to see indicators like a fever, chills and joint pain. Kelso recommended that people with these symptoms contact their doctor to rule out other causes and keep an eye on the course of the illness.
Only 5 percent of symptomatic patients get encephalitis, which
includes a more severe fever, stiff neck, a really bad headache, seizures and vomiting, Kelso said. People who develop these symptoms should seek medical care immediately. Of the patients who develop encephalitis, about one-third die. There is no current cure for EEE.
There is limited data on who EEE affects most because the sample size each year is so small, but the evidence suggests people under the age of 15 or over the age of 50 are most susceptible to the most severe complications of the disease, she said.
Asked exactly how dangerous it was to spend time outdoors in highrisk areas, Kelso emphasized that only 66 of the more than 2,200 pools tested — about 3 percent — actually came back positive for the virus.
Still, “it’s an individual decision that people need to make based on how concerned they are,” she said.
“Being one of those unfortunate five percenters,” or people who get encephalitis, “a third of whom will die, it really comes down to that,” she said. “So the health department’s message is we strongly recommend that people avoid being outside as
much as possible in those evening and early morning hours.”
The health department has other recommendations for protecting yourself against mosquito bites. Among its recommendations are to wear long tops and bottoms, use
mosquito netting, fix holes in your home’s window screens, and get rid of standing water outside your home.
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NATURE & ANIMALS • NUTRITION, BEAUTY & WELLNESS MUSIC & LANGUAGE • COMMUNITY PRESENTERS COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY • FUN & GAMES • AND MORE! (802) 482-7194 • access@cvsdvt.org • cvsdvt.ce.eleyo.com 369 CVU Road • Hinesburg, VT 05461
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Don’t let frost end your garden season
BY MELINDA MYERS Special to the Observer
No matter where you garden, there never seems to be enough time to grow and enjoy all your favorite vegetables.Start preparing now to extend your growing season and continue enjoying garden fresh vegetables even after the first frost.
Some fruits and vegetables — like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale and Brussels sprouts — tolerate frost and even taste better after a slight chill. Most of these can tolerate temperatures as low as 24-28 degrees.
Leeks are another vegetable that thrives in cooler temperatures. Many tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees. Just mound some protective mulch around the plants and continue harvesting.
Take advantage of the chilly winter temperatures to store some of your carrots, turnips and parsnips in the ground for winter. Just cover the soil with straw or evergreen boughs after it lightly freezes.Dig as needed, or during a winter thaw, and enjoy their wonderfully sweet flavor.
Those first few fall frosts are often followed by a week or more of mild temperatures. Protecting frost sensitive plants from the first few fall frosts is one way of extending your season. Cover the plants with old bed sheets, mattress pads or similar items in late afternoon and remove them as soon as the temperatures climb above freezing. Keep these handy and be ready to cover whenever frost is in the forecast.
Make it easier by using floating row covers. The spun mate -
rial allows air, light and water through while protecting the plants from frost. You will find different weights of row covers that provide different levels of temperature protection. Just loosely cover the plants and anchor the edges with stones, boards or garden pins. You only need to remove the fabric to harvest ripe vegetables. Otherwise, it can stay in place until the vegetables stop producing or you decide it is time to end the season.
Create a high tunnel over garden beds filled with large plants. Use hoops and row covers to allow easy access for harvesting while protecting the plants.
Cloches have long been used to jump-start the season or extend it beyond the first fall frost. You’ll find a variety of shapes and sizes available. Select one
Floating row covers protect plants from frost while allowing light, air and water through. COURTESY PHOTO BY MELINDA MYERS
large enough to cover your plants and protect them as needed. Look for those with vents to prevent plants from overheating and those that allow water through while trapping heat.
Don’t let unripe tomatoes go to waste if you are unable or unwilling to protect them from frost. Harvest any that are starting to show color before the killing frost and finish ripening them indoors. The bottom of the tomato should be greenish white or starting to color up. Store your green tomatoes in a cool (6065 degrees) location to extend their storage life.
Spread out the tomatoes on heavy paper or wrap them individually in newspaper so the fruit do not touch each other. They’ll ripen over the next few weeks. Speed up the process by moving a few tomatoes to a warm, bright location a few days before they’re needed. Enjoy green tomatoes fried, in relish, salsa, pies or in
many other ways.
And when your season ends, begin planning for next year. Enlist some of these strategies to jump-start the season for an earlier harvest.
Melinda Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
Some fruits and vegetables tolerate frost and even taste better after a slight chill.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Green Mountain Transit proposes sweeping service cuts
BY SHAUN ROBINSON VTDigger
Vermont’s largest public transit provider has proposed cutting at least a quarter of its
local and regional bus services over the next year in order to save up to $3 million that the agency said would fill a projected gap in its operating budget.
The reductions, which Green Mountain Transit leaders announced at a press conference in Burlington last Wednesday, are not yet final. The agency is
scheduling five public hearings to take feedback on its plans over the next two months.
But Clayton Clark, the agency’s general manager, said the proposals reflect the reality of the agency’s finances, which were buoyed over the past several years by an influx of pandemic-era federal funding. Now, though, he said that funding is slated to run dry at some point next year.
“This plan that we’re putting together is one out of necessity — not because we’re looking to increase profits, not because we’re looking to do anything other than stay financially viable,” Clark told reporters.
The proposed cuts would take place in three stages and range from reducing bus frequencies and limiting weekend services to the complete elimination of three bus routes throughout Chittenden County by next summer. Clark said he
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Clayton Clark, general manager for Green Mountain Transit, discusses proposed cuts to services to deal with a $3 million budgetary shortfall during a press conference in Burlington last Wednesday.
PHOTO BY GLENN RUSSELL/VTDIGGER
hopes the last phase won’t be necessary, though, calling it a “worst case scenario.”
The agency tried to propose reductions, where possible, on bus trips that had both relatively low ridership and relatively high operating costs, the general manager said.
The first phase, slated to go into effect in November and December of this year if the plan is approved, would reduce the frequency of weekend service on routes serving Burlington, Shelburne and Winooski and would eliminate Saturday service on the No. 10 bus between Williston and Essex. A commuter route that runs between Jeffersonville and Burlington would also be shut down.
Then, in February and March 2025, the agency would do away with a little-used commuter route from Essex Junction to Burlington and would cut one midday trip on a commuter bus between Milton and Burlington. It would also reroute an existing commuter route between Burlington and St. Albans through Milton to reduce the number of buses operating north of the Queen City.
The final phase, in June 2025, would put in place the most drastic reductions — and so, if necessary, save Green Mountain Transit the most money, Clark
said. It includes the complete elimination of three local bus routes: the No. 8 City Loop, which serves Burlington’s downtown and Old North End; the No. 10 Williston-Essex route, and the No. 11 Airport route, which runs between Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport and downtown Burlington.
That phase would also completely eliminate weekend service on the No. 5 Pine Street route in Burlington, and reduce weekend service on Burlington’s No. 7 North Ave. route as well as the No. 6 Shelburne, No. 2 Essex and No. 1 Williston routes.
Clark said he was especially concerned by the prospect of eliminating the No. 10 route in Williston and Essex because that would leave many Essex Town residents without any nearby public transportation options. He said Green Mountain Transit plans to meet with Essex Town officials to discuss alternative local transit options.
Combined, the three bus routes that could be cut in the third phase saw more than 200,000 total trips in the 2023 fiscal year, which spanned July 2022 to June 2023, agency data shows. The agency’s most-used routes — the No. 1 Williston and No. 2 Essex Junction, which would see reduced weekend service — served about 475,000 and 420,000 total trips, respectively, in the same time period.
Clark said that as the agency has eyed
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lesser-used routes for cuts next year, it’s aware of the impact eliminating public transit, at any level, can have on people’s lives. The agency is anticipating strong public opposition to some of its proposals, he said.
“They’re going to have an emotional response, because this means that their life
“This plan that we’re putting together is one out of necessity — not because we’re looking to increase profits, not because we’re looking to do anything other than stay financially viable.”
Clayton Clark Green Mountain Transit general manager
may become harder — they may not be able to live in the place that they’re currently living, because they may not have transportation,” Clark said, referring to bus riders.
“And so that’s why we’re going to do every-
thing we can to limit these cuts.”
Clark said that right now, the agency is projecting a budget hole closer to $2 million than $3 million when accounting for staff vacancies and additional federal money beyond pandemic-era relief funds secured with help from the state.
But there are other sources of uncertainty — including from some of the municipalities that pay to support Green Mountain Transit’s service. Hinesburg recently decided to pull out of the transit system, he noted. Meanwhile, Clark said two other municipalities — which he declined to name — have expressed concerns at the amount Green Mountain Transit is charging them.
The agency relies on a mix of local, state and federal funding to support its service. It also started charging fares earlier this year for the first time since before the Covid-19 pandemic, though Clark told reporters that revenue won’t be nearly enough to fill the gaps.
“We will only implement the reductions that are necessary based on our financial situation,” he said. “So, if our funding gap is $2 million, then you know that we won’t be cutting more than $2 million worth of service.”
Ages 50-plus. Join this fitness program just for seniors. The program will concentrate on developing upper and lower body strength, improving balance and strengthening your core. In this dementia-friendly class, participants are encouraged to work within their abilities. Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:45-10:45 a.m., $5 per visit. The R.E.C. Zone, 94 Harvest Lane.
Ages 50-plus. Programs are low impact with different levels of intensity. Instructors will show you how to take it high or low. Class passes of 1, 5 and 10 visits available to purchase. Cardio Sculpt Low is Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. and Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Cardio Sculpt Low/ High is Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4:45-5:45 p.m. and Sundays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. The R.E.C. Zone, 94 Harvest Lane.
Ages 50-plus. The ancient art of Tai Chi has become increasingly popular as people find that it improves balance, increases mindfulness and relaxes the mind and body. This class will present sequences of movements derived from the Sun style, which is slow, smooth and upright in posture. Wednesdays, 12:151:15 p.m. Free. The R.E.C. Zone, 94 Harvest Lane.
SELF DEFENSE INTRO
Age 18-plus. This class mixes training techniques from multiple martial arts, including Filipino stick fighting, kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu to create a fun, non-competitive environment where students can learn practical self-defense skills. Perfect for both complete beginners and those with a prior martial arts background. Tuesdays, Sept. 17- Oct. 18, $95. Instructor: ONTA Studio staff
TAI CHI FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS
This program focuses on learning Yang Style Tai Chi, as well as a
variety of Chi Kung sets and postures, primarily those from Grandmaster Mantak Chia’s Healing Tao system. Come strengthen your body, regulate and build physical energy, and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Thursdays, Sept. 19-Nov. 7, 6-7 p.m. $140. Instructor: ONTA Studio staff
PICKLEBALL 101
Drills will include serving, return of serve, third shot drop, the soft game, volleying, basic strategies and actual playing time. Bring your paddle or borrow a loaner. This clinic is intended for players who already know the rules. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 1618, 4-6 p.m. $75. Instructor: Corey Gottfried.
YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS
YOUTH TENNIS
Grades K-2 and 3-5. Tennis programs are taught by certified tennis professionals who are trained to in-
struct kids of all ages. Players learn basic stroke techniques. Instructors: The Edge tennis staff KNITTING
Grades 3-8. Does your child love to knit or do they want to learn? If so, this program will teach them how to improve their knitting skills. The program offers the basics for first-timers, as well as provides early and intermediate knitters with specific how-to and help with projects. All materials are provided. Instructor: Christine Heavner, owner of Knitting Circle
HORSEBACK RIDING INTRO
Ages 8-14. The Livery Horse Farm in Hinesburg is offering introductory riding programs. The focus is on English riding. Horses provide a variety of skill levels for children to learn. Instructor: Kim Johansen, owner of Livery Farm DRIVERS EDUCATION
Ages 15-17. Orientation night and all group classes are in person. Attendance in all scheduled
see RES & PARKS page 13
How to find legal help when you can’t afford a lawyer
Dear Savvy Senior,
Can you recommend any programs or organizations that provide free or low-cost legal services to seniors? I believe I need some professional legal help but have limited income and very little savings.
Almost 70
Dear Almost,
Whether you need help drawing up a will or a contract, or you’re facing some sort of legal jeopardy or dilemma, hiring an attorney can be expensive. Most lawyers today charge anywhere between $100 and $300 an hour. Fortunately, there are a number of different programs and organizations that offer free legal advice and may help you find a free or low-cost attorney. Here’s where to look for help in your area.
Legal Aid: Directed by the Legal Services Corporation, legal aid provides free legal assistance to low-income people of all ages.
Each community program will differ slightly in the services they offer and income qualifications. Visit LSC.gov/find-legal-aid to locate a program near you.
LawHelp: Powered by Pro Bono Net, a national nonprofit organization, LawHelp.org is a terrific resource that will help you locate free legal aid near you, get answers to your legal questions and even fill out legal documents. These free services are for people with low to moderate incomes.
Free Legal Answers: This is an online program created by the American Bar Association that matches low-income clients with volunteer lawyers who agree to provide brief answers online for free. This service will not answer criminal law questions, and it’s not available in every state. See ABAfreelegalanswers.org to look for a program in your state.
Senior Legal Hotlines: There are around 30 states that offer senior legal hotlines, where all seniors over age 60 have access
By Jim Miller
to free legal advice over the telephone. To find out if this service is available in your state, go to ProSeniors.org and click on “Resources,” followed by “U.S. Senior Legal Hotline Directory.”
Senior Legal Services: Coordinated by the Administration on Aging, this service may offer free or low-cost legal advice, legal assistance or access to legal
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IN CONVERSATION
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representation to people over the age of 60. Your Area Agency on Aging can tell you what’s available in your community. Call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 to get your local number.
Local Law Schools: More than 200 university law schools across the country have pro bono programs that offer free legal assistance provided by law students, supervised by their professors.
See AmericanBar.org/groups/center-pro-bono — scroll down and click on “Directory of Law School Public Interest and Pro Bono Programs” to locate a program near you.
Pension Rights Center: This is a nonprofit consumer organization that provides free legal assistance for problems with pension, 401(k) or other retirement plans. Go to PensionRights.org/find-help to search for help in your state. Stateside Legal: For military members, veterans and their families, StatesideLegal.org provides access to free legal information
and legal assistance in your area. National Disability Rights Network: This is a nonprofit membership organization that provides legal assistance to people with disabilities through their Protection and Advocacy System and Client Assistance Program. If you are disabled, visit NDRN.org to find help in your state.
Other Options: If you can’t get help from one of these programs, or find that you aren’t eligible, another option is to contact your state or local bar association to see if there are any volunteer lawyer projects in your area, or if they can refer you to a low-fee lawyer. To contact your state or local bar association, go to FindLegalHelp.org.
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.
Money Matters
Do you receive an allowance or payment for chores done around the house? Maybe you get gifts of money at birthday time. This week, The Mini Page learns about money and good money habits.
The three $’s
The things we must have to survive, such as food, shelter and clothing, are called needs. Extra things that would be nice to have, but that we could do without, are called wants
Most people try to budget, or plan, what to do with the money they make or receive. That way they can be sure there is enough for spending, saving and sharing. You can make a plan for money you receive as gifts or for doing chores. These three categories will help you decide how you want to use your money.
$pending
Spending is using money to buy goods and services. These can be needs or wants. You may hear your parents talk about “paying the bills.” Each month, most households get notices about how much money they owe for different products and services, such as:
$aving
Mini Fact: Ancient Egyptians used a counting device called an abacus (AB-uh-kuhss) to add large numbers quickly.
People save money for different reasons. They may save for short-term and long-term goals. You might save money to buy a video game. That would be a short-term goal. You might also save to go to college. That would be a long-term goal.
Experts suggest that younger kids save money at home, for instance in a piggy bank. Older kids may want to open a savings account at a bank.
You might try to save at least 10%, or one-tenth, of the money you get. For instance, if you get $5 for allowance, you would save 50 cents. But even if you don’t save quite that much, putting some money into savings is a great habit to start now.
Protecting money
Because money is valuable, we need to keep it safe. We can do this by:
• putting it in a bank or credit union where deposits are insured, or protected, by the government.
• never giving out credit card numbers to people who ask for them by phone or on the internet.
Words that remind us of money are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
$haring
For many people, sharing with others who have less has become an important part of their budget. We call this charitable giving.
If you have ever dropped coins into a red kettle during the holidays or placed money in a collection plate at church, you have shared your money. If you plan to share your money regularly, you need to budget for that.
A kid’s budget
Some kids do it this way: Whenever they get money, they spend one-third of it, save one-third of it and share one-third of it. You may already have an idea of a group or cause that you want to help with your money. If not, your family can help you decide how to use your sharing money.
Money nicknames
Some funny nicknames for money are:
Marco: What did the dollar say to the nickel? Magritte: “You don’t make much sense!”
Founded by Betty Debnam
Try ’n’ Find
Words that remind us of money are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward or diagonally, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
British animal experts say they have discovered that hippos can trot so fast that they actually “glide through the air,” however briefly, when at full speed. A report by the Royal Veterinary College says the massive mammals, weighing up to 2 tons, can propel themselves with all four feet off the ground for up to 0.3 seconds at a time. The researchers also found that hippos are more athletic than elephants but less than rhinos. Hippos are dangerous animals and are usually active at night, which makes them difficult to study.
For later:
Look in your newspaper for articles about managing money.
Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!
by Dan Thompson
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1774, the First Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia.
• In 1836, Sam Houston was elected the first president of the Republic of Texas.
• In 1882, the first U.S. Labor Day celebration was held in New York City.
• In 1975, President Gerald Ford survived an attempt on his life when a Secret Service agent tackled would-be assassin Lynette Fromme.
• In 1986, Pan Am Flight 73 was hijacked at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan.
TODAY’S FACT:
• In 1957, Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road,” a defining novel of the postwar generation, was published by Viking Press.
Rec & Parks
continued from page 8
class sessions is required for successful course completion. Do not register if there are dates you cannot attend. Behind-thewheel lessons will be scheduled individually. Must have a valid Vermont learners permit. Instructor: Epic Driving LLC
NINJA KIDS INTRO
Ages 4-8 and 7-11. This play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio
NINJA TEENS INTRO
Ages 9-15. This play-based curriculum increases strength and self-confidence while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff DANGEROUS GIRLS
Age 12-plus. A practical self-defense class designed for teens and young women, with a combination of kickboxing and grappling. It’s fun, it’s social, and before you know it, you’ll be able to kick butt. Wednesdays, Sept. 18- Oct. 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. $95. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff.
July 28 at 12:14 a.m. — Motor vehicle crash. Operator of vehicle was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 28 at 1:49 a.m. — Following a traffic stop, operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 28 at 5:26 a.m. — Assisted Essex Police Department with suspicious vehicle. Male operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 28 at 11:03 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Male suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
July 29 at 1:37 p.m. — Motor vehicle crash. Female operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 29 at 4:45 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Hannaford. Female suspect has not been located.
July 29 at 7:43 p.m. — Following a traffic stop, operator was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
July 30 at 10:39 a.m. — Assisted with a flat tire. July 30 at 9:42 p.m. — Report of kids throwing rocks at cars.
July 31 at 9:02 a.m. — Male at Walmart causing a disturbance and refusing to leave. Male was moved along.
July 31 at 3:24 p.m. — Assisted with trespassing a male from Home Depot per their request.
July 31 at 6:20 p.m. — Recovered a stolen vehicle at Walmart. Vehicle was returned to owner.
Aug. 1 at 9:49 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Male suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
Aug. 1 at 10:16 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Male suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft. Aug. 1 at 10:29 a.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Female suspect was issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft and violation of conditions of release.
Aug. 1 at 6:39 p.m. — Assisted Williston Fire Department with overdose. Female refused all services.
Aug. 2 at 5:17 p.m. — Report of a suspicious male on Retail Way. Male was issued a citation to appear in court for violation of conditions of release.
Aug. 2 at 11:12 p.m. — Suspicious male and female in Walmart. Both parties were gone before officer’s arrival.
Aug. 3 at 6:26 p.m. — Suspicious male and female on Retail Way. Male and female were gone before officer’s arrival.
Aug. 3 at 7:34 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Petsmart. Female was located and had an active arrest warrant. She was also issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
Officers also conducted 14 traffic stops and responded to seven motor vehicle crashes and 13 alarm activations during this time frame.
(1601) Bob’s Boat Repair & Inventory
AUCTION CLOSES MON., SEPT. 16 @ 10AM
Over 250 lots of boating and boat service repair equipment and inventory. Items include: tractor, boat wrapping system, steel and plywood sheds, test tanks, motor lifts,
and more!
PREVIEW THIS AUCTION
MONDAY, SEPT. 9 FROM 11AM-1PM EMAIL: helpdesk@thcauction.com
GARAGE SALE
BALSAM CIRCLE —Sept. 7, 9a.m.-4 p.m., 36 Balsam Circle, Williston: bedding, woman’s clothing, holiday items, dishes, furniture and a men’s miscellaneous table.
WILLISTON WOODS — Moving! We have 50+ years of tools, hunting/fishing, and household misc. Everything must go! Fri., Sept. 6 to Sun,. Sept. 8; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 635 Meadowbend Road.
FOR SALE
The Town of Hinesburg, Vermont seeks qualified applicants for the following positions:
EMAILED ADVERTISEMENT
Highway Foreperson
ADVERTISING INSERTION ORDER Thomas Hirchak Company FROM: Cathy Morneault Phone: 802-888-4662 Email: Advertising2@THCAuction.com
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.
To: Rick & Susan Cote Paper: Williston Observer Max Length 12.5
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.
TODAY’S DATE: 8/30/2024
NAME OF FILE: 09052024_WO
DATE(S) TO RUN: 9/05/2024
SIZE OF AD: 1/16 page (2” x 5”)
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.
EMAILED TO: Rick@Willistonobserver.com
Publishes in Williston Observer
SECTION: Auctions PO# 1601
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.
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
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 – 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 21-18.1. The Snyder Williston Properties, LLC & Rieley Properties, LLC c/o Andy Rowe request amendment to final plans for DP 21-18, (approved 10-24-2023), seeking to modify footprint and architecture of the Lot 2A multi-family apartment building at 92 Alpine Dr in the Taft Corners Zoning District (TCZD).
DP 25-01 Pre app. River Cove Animal Hospital c/o Scott Homsted requests preapplication review of 2,443 SF addition to existing animal hospital building and reconfiguration of parking lot at 7 River Cove Rd in the Residential Zoning District (RZD). APP 25-01 Christian Chorba, Esq. on behalf of appellant, Dawna Pederzani, files an appeal of Zoning Notice of Violation issued 07-24-2024, as related to AP 230121, issued to Dawna Pederzani for a dog rescue home business (Vermont English Bulldog Rescue) at 170 Lamplite Ln in the Residential Zoning District (RZD).
Project details and site plans are available at www.town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, “Agendas & Minutes”, “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning at 802-8786704 or planning@willistonvt.org
from page 2
The week-long bait drop is a cooperative effort between Vermont and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to stop the spread of the potentially fatal disease.
Rabies 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. The virus is spread through the bite of an infected animal or contact with its
saliva. If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal in humans and animals. 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.
Rabies
and
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.
bite of an infected animal or contact with its
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.
SHELBURNE DAY continued from page 4 face Towards burne-Hinesburg head the Golf depending land.
Shelburne Historical Society will have a display and president Dorothea Penar will lead a cemetery tour at 1 p.m. Food vendors round out the event with everything from coffee and lemonade to burgers and creemees. Kids will enjoy meeting animals from Shelburne Farms, craft projects, and
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.
Rotary’s
lead dors from creemees. from
Shelburne display
JOIN US AND EXPLORE THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF AVAITION
VERMONT’S LARGEST AVIATION EVENT
• 5 BANDS PLAYING THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND VERMONT’S
• 50 AIRCRAFT ON DISPLAY RANGING FROM A 1936 WAKO, A USAF KC-46, TO BETA’S ALL ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT ALIA
• AN ENTIRE HANGER DEDICATED TO STEM HIGHLIGHTING ALL THE WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE IN VERMONT
