Williston voters had hyperlocal and national questions to answer Tuesday as 79 percent of eligible voters cast ballots in the General Election — either by mail or in-person at the polls.
Voter turnout nearly matched the record 82 percent of the last presidential election, in 2020.
On the most pressing national question — who should be president of the United States? — Williston voters favored Kamala Harris over Donald Trump by a vote margin of 4,603-1,501, according to unofficial results posted by the Vermont Secretary of State’s office. Support for Trump, who won the presidency on Tuesday, declined in Williston compared to 2020, when 1,699 voted for him.
Locally, voters rejected a request from town leaders to borrow up to $400,000 for expansion and improvements to drainage, lighting and electric vehicle infrastructure in the parking lot behind Town Hall.
A similar question was defeat-
ed in March at Town Meeting Day.
The town has since received a state grant contribution of $200,000, lowering the amount of borrowing the project would have required.
Still, voters rejected the idea by a vote margin of 3,339-2,922.
“I plan to reevaluate the project with staff and the selectboard,”
Town Manager Erik Wells said Wednesday after digesting the results. “The grant funds are available to the town for a couple more years. If they are not utilized, the town will have to decline the funding.”
Williston voters also chose their representation in the Vermont Legislature for the next two years on Tuesday. Republican Bruce Roy mounted a challenge to three incumbent Democrats for one of three seats in the Chittenden-Southeast Senate District, placing fourth.
His 16,080 votes across the 11-municipality district represented 12 percent of the vote, putting him behind incumbents Thomas Chittenden of South Burlington, Ginny Lyons of Williston and Kesha Ram Hinsdale of Shelburne.
The Democratic trio will return to the Senate for new two-year terms.
“Thank you for your consideration and your votes,” said Roy, a resident of Williston. “I am disappointed by the outcome, but I truly appreciate all the interactions I’ve
My thanks to everyone who voted.”
Williston’s representation in the Vermont House of Representatives was uncontested, with incumbent Democrats Erin Brady and Angela Arsenault winning new two-year terms.
“Thank you for the opportunity to continue representing our community in Montpelier,” Arsenault said. “Education, housing and health care will be three of our top priorities in the House, and I hope you’ll share your thoughts so that I can add them to the conversation.
“The disappointing result of the presidential election only furthers my resolve to protect our most vulnerable neighbors,” she continued. “Fear and anger have gotten us here. Courage and compassion will move us forward.”
“I care deeply about the future of our community and our state, and in my four years of legislative service now, I have certainly been struck by that common value among legislators even when we disagree,” Brady added. “I am honored to continue to represent Williston and committed to the hard work ahead.”
had with the good people of Williston and Chittenden County over the last months.
“My intent in running was to offer change and a new voice for Chittenden County residents,” he continued. “The most respectful, honorable and powerful voice is your vote. The district has spoken and I accept and respect the results.
In a statement Wednesday morning, Brady said she remains committed to confronting Vermont’s “complex, interrelated challenges … including growing pressures on education funding and property taxes, skyrocketing healthcare costs, shortage of affordable housing and the impact of climate change.”
In the Chittenden 8 District shared by portions of Williston and South Burlington, first-time Democratic candidate Bridget Burkhardt won an uncontested election for a House seat. She will replace Noah Hyman, who did not seek re-election.
In other statewide contests, Williston voters favored Bernie Sanders over Gerald Malloy for the U.S. Senate by a vote tally of 4,717 to 1,820, and Becca Balint over Mark Coester for U.S. Representative 4,575 to 1,532. Both Sanders and Balint won re-election.
Williston also voted for the re-election of Gov. Phil Scott by a vote tally of 5,326-1,305 over Democratic challenger Esther Charlestin. Scott won re-election with 72 percent of the vote statewide. $400K Town Hall parking lot bond
Voters arrive at the Vermont National Guard Armory in Williston on Tuesday to cast ballots in the General Election.
OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY
Veterans Day observance set for Nov. 11
Community members are invited to gather on Monday, Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. at Williston’s War Memorial Park (between Town Hall and the Town Hall Annex) for a Veterans Day observance.
Hosted by the Williston-Richmond Rotary Club, the event will honor veterans and their families, with reflections on their contributions and sacrifices for the country. A flag presentation will be conducted by Williston’s Scout Troop 692.
After the ceremony, light refreshments will be served.
Celebrate Vermont Festival Art/craft
Around Town
Food drive upcoming to assist families with school break
The Williston Federated Church is sponsoring a Communitywide Food Drive on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 9-11 a.m. in the church parking lot at 44 N. Williston Rd. Donated food will go to support families from the Williston schools during the November break and to the Williston Community Food Shelf. Requested items include peanut butter, sun butter, cereal, pasta, canned tuna and chicken, spaghetti sauce, canned soup, macaroni and cheese, granola bars, canned fruit and applesauce.
Gift cards to local grocery stores will also be welcome.
Hinesburg Community School to perform ‘High School Musical, Jr.’
Students at Hinesburg Community School will present “High School Musical, Jr.” on Friday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 23 at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The show is packed with high energy dance numbers and catchy songs.
Theater-goers will have a chance to
meet the actors after the Saturday matinee performance. Admission is $8 at the door, or $30 for groups of four or more.
Add your historic ‘sampler’ to Vermont’s collection
The Vermont Sampler Initiative is working to identify embroidered samplers made by schoolgirls in Vermont before 1900. Samplers used to be part of a girls’ education nationwide, and their designs give insight into their lives, families and communities.
The Vermont collection will be part of a national online database at samplerarchive.org. The Vermont Sampler Initiative is working to identify, photograph and document samplers in Vermont.
Share your sampler with members of the initiative at Holy Family St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Essex Junction on Nov. 15-16. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 15 (by appointment only) and 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Nov. 16 (by appointment or walkin).
Email samplersvt@gmail.com to make an appointment or for more information.
CORRECTION
A story on the front page of last week’s Observer headlined “School board sets $103 million budget target” mistakenly states that the Champlain Valley School Board’s $103 million budget target for the upcoming fiscal year would increase spending by $2.2 million over the current fiscal year. The actual increase is $1.2 million.
Lions club takes recycling challenge to
late town leader
BY JASON STARR Observer staff
Vermont put a ban on plastic carry-out bags in 2019, but there remains no shortage of thin plastic film flittering about.
Greg Paulman and the Williston Area Lions Club spent the last year collecting over 1,000 pounds of the stuff. Their reward — aside from diverting otherwise un-recyclable plastic from the waste stream is a commemorative bench on its way from the outdoor home decking manufacturer Trex. The Virginia-based company recycles plastic film into its wood-substitute material.
One of the ways Trex acquires its source material is through its “NexTrex Recycling Challenge,” which asks grassroots organizations to collect at least 1,000 pounds of plastic film in a year and rewards them with a free bench.
“There are probably a half dozen of us that were working on it,” said Paulman, a longtime member of the Williston Area Lions Club. “It was a way for us to do a service project and, in the end, get a nice bench.”
Club members would fill their cars with plastic collected from friends and businesses and drop it off at Hannaford’s grocery stores — one of Trex’s collection partners. With the bench on the way, the club now
Commemorative collection
seeks community input on where to place it. Club members have tossed around ideas like in front of the Williston Fire Station, outside the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library or along a local rec path — anywhere it could serve as a place to pause and enjoy the outdoors.
The bench will serve another purpose, too — memorializing founding Lions club member and longtime Williston public servant Herb Goodrich and his wife Rita.
The Goodrichs owned a farm on the property along Route 2 that is now the Southridge neighborhood. In addition to helping found the Lions club, Goodrich
also served on the selectboard and the board of civil authority, and was assistant chief of the Williston Fire Department.
Goodrich passed away in 2018 at the age of 88, four years after his wife.
“He wasn’t just a local farmer,” Paulman said. “He was involved in many aspects of the community.”
Community members who would like to share an idea for where the Goodrich memorial bench should be placed can call Paulman at (802) 777-7798 or email him at greg.paulman@yahoo.com.
Williston Lions Club members continue to collect plastic film and expect that
more benches will be awarded from Trex for their efforts.
“Once you start doing it, it’s like it starts to take a little bit of a life of its own,” said Paulman.
The club also hopes to recruit other non-profit organizations to join the program and get their own benches, or perhaps recruit some new Lions members who are interested in helping with the project.
“People are pulled in all different directions, so the idea of being part of a group that serves your local community and beyond has kind of become a foreign thought to many people,” Paulman said. “Sometimes people need a cause to get involved and it’s like ‘hey, I like the idea of getting a bench set up over here’ and maybe that’s what gets them involved.”
The Williston Area Lions Club was one of the first in the Burlington area. Founded in 1983, it covered several surrounding towns and had about 50 members in its heyday, according to Paulman. Later, some members broke off to form independent clubs in surrounding towns, some of which have since faded away. Lions clubs remain in Essex, Colchester and Jericho-Underhill, as well as in Williston — although membership is a fraction of what it once was.
The club’s primary focus is providing eyeglasses and hearing aids to people in need. It also gives out two $500 scholarships to local high school seniors each year.
“We could do a lot more for the community if we (had more members),” Paulman said.
An example of a Trex bench, above, that the Williston Area Lions Club is planning to place in a public location in honor of longtime locals Herb, inset, and Rita Goodrich.
OBSERVER COURTESY PHOTOS
Rodgers unseats Zuckerman as Lt. Gov. of Vermont
BY SHAUN ROBINSON VTDigger
John Rodgers, a Republican from Glover, was elected lieutenant governor of Vermont Tuesday, unseating Progressive/ Democrat Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman in a rare ouster of a statewide incumbent. The dramatic conclusion came at the end of a highly competitive — and at times highly personal — contest for the state’s second highest-ranking office.
The outcome became clear around 1:20 a.m. Wednesday, when the last of Vermont’s 247 towns and cities reported results. At that time, Rodgers led Zuckerman 46.2 percent to 44.6 percent, according to the Secretary of State’s Office — with just 5,959 votes separating them.
If those results were certified, the Vermont Legislature would still have to sign
off on the outcome in January, since no candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote — a requirement in the Vermont Constitution.
“We feel like we’ve got it,” Rodgers said earlier Wednesday morning, in a phone call around 12:30 a.m. “We couldn’t be happier with the results.”
About an hour before that, Zuckerman addressed reporters at the Vermont Democratic Party’s election night party in South Burlington, saying “there’s certainly a decent chance I’m going to lose” but declining to formally concede the race.
Reached at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Zuckerman said he needed more time to review the results.
“He’s clearly gotten more votes than me, and there’s a process and time to figure out what the next steps are as I just try to eval-
The Vermont Republican Party has dismantled Democrats’ supermajority in the Vermont Senate, unseating four incumbents and dominating races for open seats.
Republicans toppled Democratic incumbents in the Addison, Orange, Chittenden-North and Grand Isle districts, according to unofficial results provided by the Secretary of State’s Office, and they picked up another two open seats that are being vacated by long-serving Democrats in Orleans and Caledonia counties.
In total, the GOP has nearly doubled its representation in the upper chamber, from seven seats last session to 13. That means Democrats and Progressives, who held 23 seats, will now control 17 — and will no longer have the two-thirds majority needed to override gubernatorial vetoes. (A similar dynamic played out in the Vermont House, where Democrats also lost their supermajority.)
The Addison result proved the chamber’s biggest upset of the evening, with Sen. Chris Bray, chair of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Energy, losing to relative political newcomer Steven Heffernan in a district thought to be solidly Democratic.
In the Orange County race, Republican Larry Hart, a building supply store salesman, definitively took down Sen. Mark MacDonald, a Democrat who has served in the Legislature for a combined total of more than 30 years. Hart won 54 percent of the vote to MacDonald’s 42 percent, according to the preliminary results Tuesday night.
From Gov. Phil Scott’s election night party, Vermont Republican Party Chair
Paul Dame said of the GOP’s down-ballot success, “I don’t think we’ve had a night this good in 10 years.”
“During the last two years, we kind of had this stalemate, with the governor saying, ‘I’ve got a mandate with 70 percent of the vote,’ and (House Speaker Jill) Krowinski and (Senate President Pro Tempore Phil) Baruth saying, ‘We’ve got a mandate with a supermajority.’ And there’s sort of been this impasse,” Dame said. “Tonight, voters have weighed in on how to solve that stalemate. They said, ‘You should have been listening to the governor in (the) last two years.’”
Meanwhile, as results began to come in at the Vermont Democratic Party’s election night gathering in South Burlington, Baruth told the crowd there, “I’m not going to lie to you — this is a tough night.”
The party’s executive director, Jim Dandeneau, was similarly downtrodden. “We are not seeing the results locally that we had hoped for,” he said shortly after 10 p.m. In an interview an hour later, he said that the state GOP’s — and particularly Gov. Scott’s — messaging over property taxes proved to be more effective than what he called Democrats’ “herculean work” knocking on doors and engaging with voters on the ground.
“He was blanketing the airwaves with his messaging about cutting taxes. That ended up being not great for us,” said Dandeneau.
By around 9 p.m., the GOP had flipped its first seat, with Rep. Patrick Brennan, R-Colchester, ousting recently appointed Democratic Sen. Andy Julow in the Grand Isle district.
Julow, of North Hero, was appointed to fill the late Sen. Dick Mazza’s seat in the
single-member district in May. Mazza, a moderate Democrat, held the seat for decades before his death this year. Both candidates modeled themselves after the late dean of the Senate.
By 9:30 p.m., Republicans had picked up another seat, this time when Rep. Chris Mattos, R-Milton, won the Chittenden North district.
Sen. Irene Wrenner, D-Chittenden North, sought to defend her seat after winning the newly created battleground district two years ago.
Driven by a dominant showing in Milton and Fairfax, Mattos garnered 54 percent of the vote to Wrenner’s 42 percent, according to preliminary results from the Secretary of State’s Office.
The race marked the Vermont Republican Party’s second go at Chittenden County’s northernmost Senate district, which has been a target for the party since reapportionment in 2022 broke up the former six-member Chittenden County district into three parts.
Republican candidates also clinched seats in two Northeast Kingdom counties Tuesday night. In Caledonia County, Republican Rep. Scott Beck will replace outgoing Democratic Sen. Jane Kitchel, who has long chaired the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.
“Vermonters have clearly spoken and said that this state is becoming unaffordable for far too many,” Beck said in an interview at Gov. Scott’s election party in Montpelier. “They’re telling us that they don’t want the far extreme agendas. They want the middle to be represented again.”
In neighboring Orleans County, Republican Sam Douglass, a local GOP leader from North Troy, similarly declared victory
over Rep. Katherine Sims, D-Craftsbury. He will fill outgoing Democratic Sen. Bobby Starr’s seat.
“Up in the Northeast Kingdom, we’re a very tight knit bunch, and we know when you’re not authentic,” Douglass said in an interview Tuesday night. “This might be a little radical to say, but I don’t think it was Republicans that won. I think it was common sense that won.”
The deaths and departures of six incumbent Democrats this year created an opportunity for Republicans to chip away at the other party’s strength. And in a number of districts, Democratic incumbents faced steep competition.
In April, Mazza stepped down from his Grand Isle seat. And in June, Sen. Dick Sears, a longtime Bennington County Democrat, died. The retirements of Sens. Brian Campion, D-Bennington, Dick McCormack, D-Windsor, Kitchel and Starr presented additional opportunities for newcomers to join the upper chamber.
The open seats, several of which were in purple districts, became a particular focus of the Vermont Republican Party, which sought to end Democrats’ supermajority and allow Republican Gov. Phil Scott to veto bills without being overridden.
What were seen as the five most competitive Senate races, in the Caledonia, Chittenden North, Grand Isle, Orange and Orleans districts, garnered tens of thousands in donations from wealthy Burlington-area families.
Scott campaigned harder than in recent years for fellow party mates, including in the five high-spending races.
Shaun Robinson and Sarah Mearhoff contributed reporting.
Lieutenant gubernatorial candidate John Rodgers speaks with attendees of Gov. Phil Scott’s election watch event at the Associated General Contractors of Vermont building in Montpelier on Tuesday.
PHOTO BY JOSH KUCKENS/VTDIGGER
uate on two hours of sleep what is before us,” he said.
Zuckerman said he had not yet spoken with Rodgers but had texted him early Wednesday morning to say he’d call when he “had more clarity” about the situation. He said he had no reason to doubt the unofficial vote count but wanted to review “the recount question” and “other scenarios in state law.”
The result means that Republican Gov. Phil Scott — who cruised to reelection on Tuesday — will have a close ally serving in the lieutenant governor’s office for the first time in the eight years he’s served as chief executive.
The race saw both Rodgers and Zuckerman, who work as farmers and previously served alongside each other as state legislators, pitch themselves as a stronger voice for working class people and the better candidate to help tackle concerns over affordability and
property tax increases in many communities necessary to fund public education.
It was also a contest between two candidates who do not fall neatly along party lines. Rodgers had long identified as a Democrat before he announced his bid for lieutenant governor earlier this year under the GOP mantle, quickly becoming a vocal critic of his former party. Meanwhile, Zuckerman is among the most recognizable candidates in the state to primarily identify with Vermont’s left-wing Progressive Party.
Rodgers won the Republican primary for lieutenant governor in August over Gregory Thayer, a former Rutland County GOP chair and staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump. Rodgers, however, is a vocal Trump critic, styling himself as a moderate Republican who in fact has the same politics he did when serving as a Democrat.
In fact, Rodgers told VTDigger at the polls in Glover Tuesday
morning that he had written in Scott’s name for U.S. president, rather than voting for GOP nominee Donald Trump or Democratic nominee Kamala Harris.
The difference now, Rodgers argued on the campaign trail, was that the state’s Democratic party had swung too far to the left for his moderate, if somewhat populist, views. That message — which was rooted in criticism of recent policy passed by the Democrat-led Legislature such as the latest annual property-tax setting yield bill, or legislation to establish a clean heat standard policy in Vermont — appears to have resonated with voters statewide.
“As I stated throughout the campaign, there’s a lot of issues to deal with in Vermont, but nothing else matters if we can’t afford to live here,” Rodgers said early Wednesday morning. “And (for) the majority of the people that I spoke with, the cost of living was the most important thing on their mind.”
Closing schools doesn’t fix Vermont’s problems
BY MARGARET MACLEAN
Parents in the small Vermont town of Roxbury can meet most of the challenges of school mornings, from organizing breakfast to helping their children remember assignments and lunches.
Warming up the car for the upto 4-mile drive to the nearest bus stop is also on the to-do list.
But one part is breaking their hearts: the two hours and 15 minutes per day their children now spend on a bus getting to and from school in Montpelier. Endless hours on a school bus are not what they want for their children. It’s not what a Vermont childhood should be.
When the Montpelier and Roxbury school districts merged under the school consolidation law, Act 46, Roxbury residents were assured their rural school would receive equal treatment in the new district. But since then, the Montpelier-dominant board made the sudden decision to close Roxbury’s K-4 elementary school last spring, and families in the small town have come face to face with
the inequities caused by rural school closures.
Even the smallest children have to endure punishingly long bus rides, made worse by the fact that, in this 42-square-mile town filled with dirt roads, Montpelier’s buses only drive on pavement. That’s right — Montpelier’s buses do not go on dirt roads.
But beyond busing issues, many parents feel dismissed by a distant Montpelier-dominated school system. And the town is still searching for a sustainable use for the school building that was once the heart of their community.
Roxbury greenhouse owner Tom Frazier put it bluntly: “We merged with Montpelier in good faith. The situation we are in now — they have closed our school — is a nightmare.”
Roxbury is not alone. Across the U.S., when rural schools have been targeted for closure, similar patterns have emerged. Research shows that closing schools is damaging to children. Studies of school closures across the U.S. show that students:
— Experience a loss of connect-
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Anticipated cost efficiencies from ‘economies of scale’ rarely materialize.
edness with peers and community
— Face increased mental health challenges
— In the short term, have lower test scores, worse attendance and behavioral issues
— In the long term, are less likely than their peers to complete college and secure a job
— Face negative impacts from declining family and community engagement.
Closing schools doesn’t save money. Children from closed schools still need an education. National research shows that
per-pupil spending tends to increase when schools close, while anticipated cost efficiencies from “economies of scale” rarely materialize. Transportation costs increase, the promised wider opportunities cost money, and empty public buildings need to be maintained. School closures most often result in the redistribution of where money is spent, rather than financial savings.
Closing schools increases inequity. Research finds that students experiencing poverty, students of color and those with special needs are most negatively impacted by school closures.
Closing schools destroys communities. In communities where schools are closed, research points to depopulation, declining home values, eroding social capital and problems with attracting and retaining families with children.
Closing schools without due
process results in unintended consequences. An inclusive, open-minded analysis of the pros, cons and alternatives to school closure is crucial to avoiding unintended consequences.
Examination of winter transportation (likely to make long bus rides even longer), creative options such as retaining rural schools to house licensed childcare, pre-school and K-2 students, additional community-oriented alternatives for school buildings, and other research should be documented and presented as part of a choice for voters. Also, a town vote on closing a town’s school is an essential element to ensure buy-in to a balanced, sustainable and fair solution.
Vermont’s children deserve better. Research shows that multi-age classrooms are developmentally appropriate settings
The economic case for welcoming immigrants
I am committed to growing Vermont’s economy and building a more inclusive future for our state. To keep our economy on a positive track, we must address our demographic challenges and grow our workforce.
I regularly hear from employers about the difficulty of finding workers — a challenge impacting all sectors of our economy, from small businesses and our largest companies to service providers and local governments.
One way to grow our workforce is to address our housing shortage,
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
and though we’re making strides to build more homes, it’s clear that solving Vermont’s demographic challenges will require more than new housing.
To prepare Vermont’s economy for the future, we need to continue welcoming new Americans to our state.
Studies show that immigration nationwide is an overwhelmingly positive driver of economic growth.
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projects that from 2024 to 2034, immigration will reduce U.S. deficits by $900 billion and increase federal revenues by $1.2 trillion. These economic benefits don’t account for the value added to local communities of welcoming
individuals with new experiences, skills and dreams.
Welcoming new Americans to Vermont’s communities will strengthen our workforce and economy.
New Americans have always played a key role, in Vermont and across our country, in building strong, resilient communities and economies. Our future will be no different.
Mike Pieciak Vermont State Treasurer Montpelier
The F-35s are a privilege
It’s discouraging that there are towns with a “not in my blue sky”
attitude toward the F-35s.
What about the sound of ambulance sirens? Hearing both of those is like hearing the message that “help is on the way.”
The pilots are training for circumstances we hope never happen. But it’s vital that we have capable people to fly the F-35 planes effectively, if ever necessary. It’s a privilege to have them in Vermont.
Some days the F-35s are overhead as I arrive for work in Williston. Watching for a second or two can be dazzling.
When it’s lunchtime, we can shut the breakroom door and the sound is immediately muted to tolerable outside noise. I’ve never experienced interference with conversations, nor
has the noise hurt or harmed my eardrums.
It is just minutes a day on select days that the noise is close enough to be a distraction. It’s not like the planes hover over a particular building for the duration of their flight.
Annoyances are part of life. So are tradeoffs. National security is a necessity and one that means involvement on many levels. If you enjoy a life of freedom then you have benignly given confidence to a military that is active on your behalf.
With much appreciation, I firmly side with keeping the F-35s in Vermont.
for young children, and many small schools are cost effective and among the best performing schools in Vermont. Small schools for elementary students can be exemplary schools.
Scapegoating small rural communities for Vermont’s fiscal crisis flies in the face of equity and is not based on a factual analysis of the problem. Enrollment decline exists in schools of all sizes, all over Vermont. Schools of all sizes should be expected to step up to address enrollment decline — not just look to closing their neighbors’ smaller schools as an easy fix.
Vermont must provide an excellent public education system that prepares children for success, supports families and thriving communities, and is delivered at a cost hardworking Vermonters can afford. Leaders’ sense of urgency in finding new models is merited and laudable. However, the burden of change must be equitable and addressed by communities large and small.
Closing Vermont’s rural schools is an “answer” that does not fix the problem. It simply creates different ones.
Margaret MacLean of Peacham is a retired Vermont teacher and principal. She is the founding executive director of the Vermont Rural Education Collaborative and formerly served on the Vermont State Board of Education. She can be reached by email at vtschoolsrock@gmail.com.
Child Find Notice
Champlain Valley School District (including the towns of Charlotte, Hinesburg, Shelburne, St. George, and Williston, Vermont) is required by federal law to locate, identify and evaluate all children with disabilities. The process of locating, identifying and evaluating children with disabilities is known as child find.
Champlain Valley School District schools conduct Kindergarten screening each spring; parents may also call to make an appointment to discuss their concerns at any time. As the school district of residence, CVSD has the responsibility to identify and provide services to any child with special needs who may require special education and related services in order to access and benefit from public education.
If you have, or know of any CVSD resident who has a child with a disability under the age of 21 or a child who attends a private school located in Charlotte, Hinesburg, Shelburne, St. George, or Williston, Vermont, we would like to hear from you. Sometimes parents are unaware that special education services are available to their children.
Please contact the School Principal Charlotte Central School – 802-425-2771, Hinesburg Community School – 802-482-2106, Shelburne Community School – 802-985-3331, Williston Central/Allen Brook Schools – 802-878-2762) or the Director of Student Support Services, Anna Couperthwait at 802-985-1903.
Krista Webdale Williston
The tiny home invaders coming in from the cold
BY ANN HAZELRIGG Special to the Observer
When the weather starts to turn cold, four common insect invaders may show up uninvited in your home. None of them breed in the house or cause any damage to humans, pets, food items or structures. These nuisance pests are looking for a warm, protected place to overwinter and hibernate.
The western conifer seed bug is the largest of the four. It feeds primarily on seeds and developing cones of several conifer species. The range of these true bugs currently extends across the northern U.S. into Canada.
Adults are about three quarters of an inch long, brownish in color, with alternating light and dark bands running along the outer wing edges on each side of
the abdomen. These insects move slowly and can fly, often making buzzing sounds when airborne, and will give off a pungent odor if you handle them.
The brown marmorated stink bug can be confused with the western conifer seed bug but is smaller. It is brownish, shieldshaped and about five-eighths of an inch long, and the next to last (fourth) antennal segment has a white band.
This insect was introduced to the U.S. from Asia in 1996 and has become an invasive, destructive fruit and vegetable pest in the mid-Atlantic states. Their numbers have been low in Vermont and they are considered home invaders as opposed to crop pests.
They can enter homes through any small opening. Once inside, they will often fly, causing a buzzing sound. They do not reproduce, damage structures, bite people or harm pets. They can exude a pungent chemical when they are handled or crushed. Adults mate outdoors in the spring about two weeks after emerging from a resting phase.
The multicolored Asian lady beetle is a more colorful nuisance insect that was introduced by the United States Department of Ag-
Cold weather indoor pests, the adult boxelder bug (left top), the adult multi-colored Asian lady beetle (left middle) the western conifer seed bug (left bottom) and the brown marmorated stink bug (right).
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BUGWOOD.ORG
Correctional survey shows mental struggles among staff, incarcerated people alike
BY NOAH DIEDRICH Community News Service
More than three in 10 people incarcerated at Southern State Correctional Facility thought about killing themselves in the last year, and over a quarter of staff at the Springfield prison thought the same, according to a recent state-sanctioned survey.
The study, produced by the Prison Research and Innovation Network, found that a majority of both people confined in the facility and those who work there believe staffing and resources are inadequate, with particular consequences for their mental health.
The Vermont Prison Climate Survey — a yearslong project by the Prison Research and Innovation Network between the University of Vermont and the Vermont Department of Corrections — aims to better understand the impacts of prison conditions on the health and wellbeing of staff and incarcerated people, said Abigail Crocker, co-author of the survey and a UVM associate professor.
“Prisons are the least transparent and most understudied public institutions in the country,” Crocker said. “So doing research inside prisons — people just don’t do it, and therefore they’re like these black boxes.”
The researchers wanted to start with one prison as a trial, Crocker said. Going forward, the plan is to
administer the survey in all six of Vermont’s prisons, she said.
Upwards of 70 percent of participants completed the survey in its entirety. Of 120 eligible staff, 84 answered the survey; of 255 eligible prisoners, 212 completed it.
“When people would hand us back the survey, they’d say things like, ‘Wow, this is really thoughtful, really intentional,’” Crocker said. “That gave us confidence that this is an accurate description of what it’s like inside.”
The issues that stood out? Staffing shortages, as well as idle time and health care difficulties for incarcerated people, Crocker said.
Vermont’s prisons have been suffering staffing shortages since 2022, when the vacancy rate among staff jobs rose to 20-25 percent.
Rates have dropped since 2022 by almost half, but concerns about staffing linger.
Steve Howard, executive director of Vermont State Employees Association, the union representing state employees, said the results demonstrate the Department of Corrections needs to do more about the shortage.
“They start to do things that are making a difference, and then they stop them, and we go right back down this rabbit hole,” Howard said.
According to the survey, 84 percent of staff respondents agree
“When you have this constant turnover because of the overtime, the lack of family life and the amount of stress, you get at the core reason why our corrections system isn’t working the way we want it to.”
Steve Howard
Executive Director Vermont State Employees Association
or strongly agree that mandatory overtime is a problem. Nearly 70 percent disagreed when asked if staff morale was high, and 55 percent of staff respondents said their schedule causes conflict at home.
“When you have this constant turnover because of the overtime, the lack of family life and the amount of stress
— plus the health implications of all that stress — you get at the core reason why our corrections system isn’t working the way we want it to,” he said.
Howard said he thinks the number of staff who reported suicidal thoughts in the last year, 26 percent, is probably higher in reality.
Howard said he is discouraged by what he sees as Gov. Phil Scott’s lack of action to educate the public and ask for more resources to recruit, retrain and retain staff.
Scott’s office referred a reporter to the Department of Corrections for comment.
Reps for that department declined several requests for an interview, opting instead to provide written responses to emailed questions.
“Staffing has been the Department’s top priority for several years now and we have implemented a variety of initiatives to
recruit and retain staff,” said Haley Sommer, director of communications and legislative affairs for the department, in an email. She said officials continue to talk with stakeholders about the urgency of the issue and retention efforts.
According to state data, the department’s job vacancy rate as of February 2024 was 16.9 percent, down from 28.7 percent in July 2022. Sommer said today’s figure is 18 percent.
Many incarcerated people at Southern State also feel they have too few chances to better their mental health through programs or activities, the survey says.
Annie Manhardt, supervising attorney for the state Prisoners’ Rights Office, said people she talks with want to spend their time in prison learning new skills, getting treatment or participating in risk-reduction programs.
“This is a population that really desires the opportunity to better see CORRECTIONS page 11
State’s prison health services provider heads for bankruptcy
BY ETHAN WEINSTEIN VTDigger
The company that provides health services in Vermont’s prisons, Wellpath, is preparing to file for bankruptcy, according to reporting from Bloomberg.
One of the country’s largest prison health care providers, Wellpath is owned by the private equity firm H.I.G. Capital.
Vermont pays the company almost $40 million per year for health services in its prisons. The state began its contract with Wellpath in July 2023, which increased the annual cost of prison health services by 50 percent compared to its prior contract with Vitalcore Health Strategies.
Since then, concerns have emerged over the quality of the company’s care in Vermont prisons. Last year, a whistleblower revealed the company’s top health-care administrator at the Springfield prison had lost his nursing license in three states. Not long after, a group of U.S. senators, including Vermont’s Bernie Sanders, raised concerns with the company’s leadership about “inadequate care” provid -
ed by Wellpath nationwide.
Wellpath did not respond to questions on Monday. A Vermont Department of Corrections spokesperson said Monday afternoon they were waiting for more information from Wellpath on how bankruptcy could impact the company’s work in Vermont.
According to Bloomberg, multiple credit rating agencies have recently downgraded Wellpath due to its debt and poor earnings, though the company still brought in roughly $2.4 billion in the 12-month period ending June 30, 2024.
It’s difficult to know what the exact impact of Wellpath’s bankruptcy would be, according to Bianca Tylek, executive director of Worth Rises, a nonprofit working nationally to end financial incentives in prisons. Little comprehensive reporting exists on the prison health care industry generally, she noted.
“Wellpath is going to continue to operate,” Tylek said in an interview, but she expects that prison health services won’t attract the same level of investment the sector has seen in recent years.
Other prison health contractors have recently faced financial troubles. Corizon Health Inc., a prison health care provider, transferred its debt to a new company in what some have described as an effort to avoid medical malpractice liability, The Marshall Project reported. The company transferred its assets to a third corporation as part of its financial maneuverings. Tylek also pointed to financial woes at providers Armor Health and Centurion.
For-profit prison health care is “incredibly fraught,” Tylek said, because companies have financial incentives to cut costs or to neglect to provide care, adding, “I don’t think the system can get worse.”
The industry’s “financial crisis,” she hopes, will gradually lead to more public options in the prison health care business. She pointed to Texas, where prison health care is provided by the state university medical system, as a superior alternative.
“When you have and are using public options,” Tylek said, “there’s just more opportunity for taxpayer accountability.”
A hospital bed in the infirmary unit of Southern State Correctional Facility in December 2016.
FILE PHOTO BY PHOEBE SHEEHAN/VTDIGGER
riculture as a predator of aphids and scale insects. Asian lady beetles are slightly larger than native lady beetles and are oval, and yellow to red in color.
These beetles congregate on sunny south/southwest sides of houses in the fall and can inundate homes from September through April. It is common for tens of thousands of beetles to congregate in attics, ceilings and
wall voids. Due to the warmth of the walls, they will move around inside voids and exit into living areas. The little beetles can exude a foul-smelling defensive chemical that will sometimes cause spotting on walls and other surfaces.
Boxelder bugs are about onehalf inch long by one-third of an inch wide. They are dark brownish black with three lengthwise, red stripes behind the head. They become particularly annoying in the fall when adults and large nymphs tend to congregate
ed people’s mental health.
themselves, but they don’t feel like they’re getting that in the system as it currently exists,” Manhardt said.
Programs like Community High School of Vermont help incarcerated people get their high school diploma while inside, she said.
But Southern State lacks much in the way of programs like it, Manhardt said.
“There aren’t really job training programs in (Southern State),” she said. “There aren’t really opportunities for people to get certifications or licenses to do different types of work, the way that I know that there are in some other prison systems around the country.”
The survey says 65 percent of incarcerated respondents strongly disagree or disagree that activities offered in Southern State are good quality.
Manhardt said the lack of these types of programs hurts incarcerat-
“When you don’t have a lot to look forward to, your mental health is going to suffer,” she said. “Even people who come into prison without significant mental health issues certainly experience depression, anxiety, stress — all things that come with being in that environment.”
Falko Schilling, advocacy director for the Vermont American Civil Liberties Union, said incarceration as a solution hurts staff too.
“Prison is a place where people’s mental and physical health suffer, whether they’re incarcerated at the facility or they’re working at the facility,” he said.
According to the survey, 60 percent of respondents strongly disagree or disagree that they get the mental health care and treatment they need when they need it.
Manhardt said she supports efforts by the department to change that reality, namely the creation of an executive director of wellness
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in large numbers, primarily on the southwest side of structures and on boxelder trees. They migrate indoors and overwinter by hiding in cracks and crevices in walls, door and window casings, around foundations and other protected places. Once inside, they can spot curtains, furnishings and clothing with their excrement. When crushed, they give off an offensive odor.
They do not breed indoors, and when trapped in the house they eventually die.
Mechanical exclusion is the
role. She called it a sign the department recognizes the importance of incarcerated people’s mental health.
“People who are in prison, when was the last time that they really laughed about something, or when was the last time that they had fun or actually felt happiness?” she asked. “I think that it benefits everyone, including the staff.”
Sommer said the department is in talks with community partners and state agencies as officials look to expand visitation through a legislative study committee.
“Vermont’s women’s facility currently has a robust parenting program through Lund’s Kids-APart program, though the committee is discussing how we can expand family friendly visitation statewide and will provide recommendations to the Legislature in a report due in January,” she said via email.
best control method to keep all of these nuisance pests from entering homes. Seal cracks around windows, doors, siding, utility pipes, behind chimneys and underneath the wood fascia and other openings with good quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk.
Damaged screens on doors and windows should be repaired or replaced. Attics, fireplace chimneys and exhaust vents should be covered with number 20 (or smaller) screen mesh.
Exterior applications of insecticides may offer some relief
from infestations where the task of completely sealing the exterior is difficult or impossible, but this is usually not warranted.
The use of a vacuum is still the most efficient method of collecting beetles in the home. It is advisable to empty the bag and beetles after each vacuuming.
Dr. Ann Hazelrigg is the University of Vermont Extension plant pathologist and director of the UVM Plant Diagnostic Clinic.
Kismet
Dorothy Alling Memorial Library hours:
• Monday and Wednesday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.damlvt.org to apply for a library card and to register for programs requiring registration. Need help? Call 878-4918 or email daml@damlvt.org.
The library will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Children in fourth grade and younger must be supervised by someone over 16 years of age.
FRENCH STORYTIME
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Drop in for stories read by a native French speaker.
STORYTIME
Tuesdays, Nov. 12 and 19, 10:3011 a.m. Drop in for stories and fun.
AFTER SCHOOL MOVIE
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2-3:45 p.m. PG. If you could see everyone’s imaginary friends, what would you do?
MUSIC AND PLAYTIME
Thursdays, Nov. 14 and 21, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Sing with Linda then stay to play.
LEGO TIME
Thursday, Nov. 14, 3-4 p.m. Build something with the library’s Legos.
TEENS DUNGEONS & DRAGONS
Friday, Nov. 15, 4:30-6 p.m. Ages 12-plus. Campaigns are currently full. Contact the library to be added to the wait list.
READING ADVENTURE: NATIVE AMERICA
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Suggested ages 6-plus. Drop
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in for a monthly exploration with stories, myths, history and activities. This program is made possible with the support of a Winnie Belle Learned Fund Grant.
BABY TIME
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 10:3011 a.m. Suggested ages up to 18 months. Enjoy gentle activities with your baby.
AFTER SCHOOL CRAFT
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2-3 p.m. Enjoy a fun craft.
MULTI-AGE PROGRAMS
CRAFT CIRCLE
Monday, Nov. 18, 5-6 p.m. All ages. Bring a craft to work on.
READ TO A DOG
Thursday, Nov. 21, 3-4 p.m. Sign up for a 10-minute session to read to therapy dog Rocko.
ADULT PROGRAMS
For online programs or to join a book club, email daml@damlvt.org.
MONTHLY SPICE CLUB: CLOVE
Stop by to pick up November’s featured spice, information about tasting notes and a few recipes to try.
PUZZLE SWAP
Bring in your gently used 300-plus-piece puzzles and take home something new to you.
ADULT MEDITATION (ONLINE)
Fridays, Nov. 8 and 15, 12-12:30 p.m. Get in touch with your peaceful body and breath.
MAH JONGG
Fridays, Nov. 8 and 15, 1-3 p.m.
All levels welcome.
FRENCH CONVERSATION
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10:45-11:45 a.m. Drop in and practice your language skills.
CURRENT EVENTS (HYBRID — IN-PERSON AND ON ZOOM)
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10:30 a.m.12 p.m. Discuss topics of the day with community members.
LIFE STORIES (ONLINE)
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2-3:30 p.m.
Share special stories from our lives.
BOARD AT THE LIBRARY: CRANIUM
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 6-7 p.m.
Need a break from your evening routine? Come play Cranium with other adults.
PARENTING BOOK CLUB
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10:30-11:30
a.m. Read what you can of “Simplicity Parenting” by Kim John Payne, M. Ed. Whether you’ve read one page or the whole book, join the final discussion.
The book is available at the library or in Libby (Overdrive). While Parenting Book Club discussions take place, youth are invited to join the Reading Adventure in the Youth Room. This program is made possible by the Winnie Belle Learned Fund Grant.
PIECRUST MAKING WITH SALLY AND RACHEL
Monday, Nov. 18, 6-7 p.m. Struggling with technique? Come make a crust with our knowledgeable bakers and freeze it to use for the holidays. Pre-registration required.
BOOK CLUB BUFFET (ONLINE)
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m. “Foster” by Claire Keegan.
COOK THE BOOK
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12-1 p.m. “Grow. Preserve. Cook!” By Yvonne Tremblay. Stop by the library to copy a recipe to share at this potluck.
SPANISH (ONLINE)
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 5-6 p.m. All abilities welcome.
SPECIAL EVENTS
HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST
Show your holiday spirit and join this friendly competition while infusing some cheer in the community! Whether you do it to win a fun prize, for the bragging rights, or to enjoy sharing your festive decorations, we want YOU to participate! Registration Deadline: Wednesday, December 18. Registration is free! Must be registered to be judged. Judging will take place by the community from Dec. 20-27 from 5:30-7 pm each night. Winners Announced Jan. 4. Winners will be: Two (2) Residential Home Winners- a 1st and 2nd Place, and One (1) Business Winner.
If you are a business and would like to donate a gift basket or gift card as a prize, please get in touch with the Recreation Dept. : recreation@ willistonvt.org.
ON-GOING AT THE R.E.C. ZONE
94 Harvest Lane, Williston. Check the Recreation website for days, times, fees, and more information. These are not listed due to changes by instructors.
SENIOR STRENGTH & FUNCTIONAL MOBILITY
Age 50+. 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. Instructor: Jazmine Averbuck
JAZZERCISE CARDIO SCULPT PROGRAMS
Age 50+. Programs have low impact and different levels of intensity. Instructors will show you how to take it high or low. Classes are offered year-round. Class Pass- 1 & 10 visits available to purchase. Instructor: Kit Sayers
TAI CHI INTRODUCTION
Age 50+. 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. Instructor: Adina Panitch
FAMILY PROGRAMS
STARGAZING: OUR CURRENT NIGHT SKY
Age K-Adults. Are you curious about the night sky? Do you want to know how to find the Big Dipper, the North Star, and other special objects when you look up on a clear night? Together we can view the current night sky in a digitalized planetarium dome where you’ll feel like you are outside at night looking at a perfect sky! Instructor: Carrie Cruz
STACKING RINGS WORKSHOP
Age 14+. This popular 2-hour workshop from Vermont Jewelry School guides you through the creation of rings each of silver, brass, and copper. An engaging class for teens, adults, and families! Participants solder, size, and individualize their trio of rings before proudly wearing them at home. Instructor: Silvio Mazzarese
PICKUP TABLE TENNIS
Age 12+. The pickup program is only available by registration and online payment. The program is for ages 12+. Those between the ages of 12-16 must be accompanied by an adult 18+. The program meets once a week from October-May. Register on the Rec. website.
VOCAL PERCUSSION & IMPROVISATION WORKSHOP
Age 13+. Root7, Vermont’s contemporary a cappella group for 18 years, will host sight-reading sing-alongs of winter and holiday music. For beginner, intermediate, and experienced vocalists who want to learn and work in groups. Instructor: Root7
2024/2025 WINTER PROGRAMS
DANGEROUS GIRLS CLASS
Age 14+. This is a Women-only cardio-kickboxing class that combines strength and conditioning with practical combat skills. Learn trips and throws, bounce to Beyoncé, hit hard, laugh a lot. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff
ACTIVE AGERS PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY MEALS BY AGE WELL
Age 60+. Age Well will be hosting community meals at the R.E.C. Zone- 94 Harvest Ln. in Williston every Tuesday. An annual registration form is required, which can be done at the first meal you attend. Space is limited- Advanced registration is required for each community meal. You must register one week before the meal you plan on attending. To Register- Contact Taylor Hayes, Recreation Program Coordinator at (802) 876-1160 or thayes@willistonvt.org. Meals are served at noon. There is a $5 suggested donation per meal, which goes to Age Well.
ADULT PROGRAMS
PICKUP BASKETBALL PROGRAMS
Pickup programs are available by registration and online payment. There are programs for Men’s 20+, Men’s 30+, and Women’s 19+. The programs meet once a week Oct.-May. Register on the Rec. website.
VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE- COED
Age 18+. The Winter league starts in January. The deadline to register is Jan. 1. Team play ends with a double-elimination tournament. A coed team requires two or more females on the court at any time regardless of substitutions. Contact Tim Armstrongwillistonvolleyball@gmail.com.
INDOOR PICKLEBALL INTRO
Age 18+. Learn the rules, a variety of drills, some basic game strategies, and how to play this unique sport. Resources will be provided for continued learning and playing opportunities. Bring your own paddle or loaner paddles will be available. Instructor: Corey Gottfried
DOG TRAINING: BASIC/ESSENTIALS
Age 18+. This 6-week program covers the essentials of having a well-behaved companion. Includes obedience, manners, social skills, and understanding behavior. Instructor: Deb Helfrich, Gold Star Dog Training
DOG TRAINING: BEYOND BASICS
Age 18+. This 5-week program continues to build a foundation of manners, training, and social skills that were started in the basic course, working on making responses to commands consistent and reliable. Instructor: Deb Helfrich, Goldstar Dog Training
TAI CHI INTRO
Age 18+. Come strengthen your body, regulate, and build physical energy, and cultivate your mental concentration and spirit with this gentle and nourishing practice. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff
SELF DEFENSE INTRO
Age 18+. Self-defense is a countermeasure that involves defending the health and well-being of oneself from harm. Great program for those who want to learn to defend themselves and feel safe. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff
TOTS/YOUTH/TEEN PROGRAMS
SPEECH & DEBATE
Grade 5-8. This program will introduce middle school students to speech and debate through fun public speaking activities. Competitions are optional and take place during the winter season.
Instructor: Kathryn Kernoff
LEARN TO SKI/RIDE
Grades K-8. Registration is now open. Register before the early bird
discount to save- December 15. There will be two fitting nights for equipment. You must register your family for a fitting time. The info is on the registration page.
RECKIDS BASKETBALL- AGES 5-6- COED.
This is a parent/child program designed to teach the fundamentals of the game. Each week youngsters will be introduced to a new skill and fun activities that will enhance their learning. This program meets on Saturdays in January and February. Instructors: Rec. Staff.
1ST-2ND BASKETBALL
There are separate boys’ and girls’ programs offered if numbers allow. The program provides the opportunity for youngsters to learn the game, improve their skills, and enjoy playing. The program meets on Saturdays in January and February. The hour session will consist of a practice and scrimmage. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.
3RD -4TH BASKETBALL
There are separate boys’ and girls’ leagues offered if numbers allow. Leagues provide the opportunity for youngsters to play and improve their skills. Teams meet twice a week with a weekday practice and a Saturday game. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.
5TH -6TH BASKETBALL
There will be separate boys’ and girls’ leagues offered if numbers allow. The leagues meet twice a week for 1 hour each time- 1 practice and 1 game. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.
7TH -8TH BASKETBALL
There is a league for boys if the numbers allow. The team meets twice a week for 1 hour each time- 1 practice and 1 game. Parent volunteers are needed to coach. Sign up to coach when registering your child.
BASKETBALL REFEREES NEEDED
Referees are needed for the Basketball Programs grades 1-8. Games are Saturdays in January and February. Opportunities are paid or volunteer. Contact the Recreation Dept- recreation@willistonvt.org
NINJA KIDS INTRO
Age 4-8 or 7-11. The 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
NINJA SCIENCE CAMP
Ages 5-10. February Break. This camp unites the body and mind by combining martial arts, tumbling, and parkour with environmental science education. We help children realize their potential in an environment that is playful. Instructors: ONTA Studio Staff.
NINJA TEENS INTRO
Age 9-15. The play-based curriculum increases strength and selfconfidence while moving meditation helps children manage their emotions and develop the connection between mental and physical well-being. Instructor: ONTA Studio Staff
DRIVERS ED WITH EPIC DRIVING
Age 15-17. Epic Driving focuses on defensive driving techniques including crash avoidance, situational awareness, zone control, mindful driving, and developing good driving habits. This course includes 30 hours of engaging, differentiated, and responsive classroom activities and weekly, individually scheduled, behind-thewheel lessons consisting of 45 minutes of instruction and 45 minutes of observation. Instructor: Brandon Gordon
Top ‘Hawks
CLOCKWISE (l to r): CVU’s Wyatt Decker tangles with Colchester’s Liam Hallock during the Redhawks’ 3-0 State Championship win over the Lakers on Saturday evening at UVM’s Virtue Field. The team poses for a photo celebrating their win. CVU goalie Ziggy Babbott makes a save. CVU’s George Charlson and Colchester’s Noah Langer battle for possession.
Spectacular Beauty
Some of the most glorious places on Earth belong to you. These amazing sites are all part of our national park system.
For Geography Awareness Week, Nov. 11-17, The Mini Page takes you on a tour of a handful of America’s most beautiful and varied natural sites.
The Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona has deep canyons cut out by the Colorado River over millions of years. Its layers of rock go down as far as 6,000 feet and date from close to 2 billion years ago to today.
The park sits on the ancestral homelands of 11 present-day tribal communities, including the Havasupai and Navajo people.
Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska was covered by ice just 200 years ago. The bay then was a small 5-mile break in a glacier that was 20 miles wide, 100 miles long and 4,000 feet thick in places. Only about one-fourth of that area is still under ice today.
Visitors to Glacier Bay might hear the howls of wolves, icebergs “burping,”
Next Week: Visiting manners
Denali
Mini Fact: Visitors view the breathtaking Grand Canyon at sunset from Mather Point.
humpback whales and harbor seals calling and moose grunting.
Assateague Island
Wind and waves are always building up or tearing down the land on Assateague (ASS-uh-teeg), off the shores of Virginia and Maryland. Storms can change the shoreline in a few hours.
Assateague is famous for its wild horses called Chincoteague ponies. They may be the descendants of horses brought over by Colonists in the 1600s. The horses are not technically ponies; their short size comes from the salty diet they eat. About 75 horses live on the island.
Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park, in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho, is home to wildlife such as wolves and grizzly bears. Yellowstone is best known for its hot springs and geysers (GUY-zerz). A geyser is a fountain of boiling water and steam. Yellowstone has more than 1,200 geysers, of which about 465 are active in any given year.
Korner
Marriott
M&T
The highest mountain in North America, Denali, at 20,310 feet, is in Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. “Denali” means “high one” in the language of the Athabascan native people.
The park and preserve cover more than 6 million acres, with forests, tundra, glaciers and snow. Grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, Dall sheep and moose make their homes in the park, along with many species of smaller mammals and birds.
Dry Tortugas
Seven islands made of coral reefs and sand form the Dry Tortugas off the west coast of Florida.
“Tortugas” is Spanish for “sea turtles.” The islands were discovered by explorer Ponce de Leon in 1513. Explorers named them “dry” because they have no fresh water for drinking.
The park was established in 1992 to protect the islands and marine ecosystems surrounding them. Visitors must use seaplanes or ferries to access the islands; cars are not allowed.
On the Web: • nps.gov
At the library:
• “Geography Facts for Sharp Minds” by Sharp Minds Learning
Mini Jokes
George: Why is it easy to get into Florida?
Martone’s
Because there are so many keys!
Founded by Betty Debnam
photos courtesy NPS
Harbor seals hang out on the ice in front
glacier.
Old Faithful is the most popular geyser at Yellowstone.
Mount Foraker is about 17,000 feet high.
of that area is still under ice today.
Visitors to Glacier Bay might hear the howls of wolves, icebergs “burping,”
Try ’n’ Find
boiling water and steam. Yellowstone has more than 1,200 geysers, of which about 465 are active in any given year.
Words that remind us of national parks are hidden in this puzzle. Some words are hidden backward, and some letters are used twice. See if you can find:
ASSATEAGUE, BAY, BEAUTY, CANYON, CHINCOTEAGUE, DENALI, GEOGRAPHY, GEYSER, GLACIER, GRAND, HORSE, ICE, ISLAND, NATIONAL, PARK, TORTUGAS, TRIBAL, YELLOWSTONE.
Corner Oven-Roasted Potatoes
You’ll need:
• 2 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
What to do:
1. Wash, peel and cut potatoes into wedges (like big french fries).
Mini Jokes
George: Why is it easy to get into Florida? Gina: Because there are so many keys!
Eco Note
2. Place potato wedges in large bowl and coat with oil, then sprinkle with thyme.
3. Lay potato wedges in a single layer in a baking pan with edges.
4. Bake for 30 minutes at 450 degrees. Turn after 15 minutes. Serves 4.
7 Little Words for Kids
1. walk aimlessly (6)
2. paid for (6)
3. noise from a team’s fans (5)
4. cloth from a plant (6)
5. a place that lends books (7)
6. group of sheep (5)
7. connect (6)
Use the letters in the boxes to make a word with the same meaning as the clue. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in the solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle. Answers: wander, bought, cheer, cotton, library, flock, attach.
* You’ll need an adult’s help with this recipe.
Saudi and American researchers have discovered a new “grumpy” fish species swimming among the coral reefs of the Red Sea. Despite its small size — less than 1 inch in length — the grumpy dwarfgoby stands out with its long canines and fierce expression. The team first encountered the species in the Farasan Banks of Saudi Arabia. The fish’s bright red coloration helps it blend in with the walls and overhangs of the coral reefs, while its large canines are used to catch passing prey.
For later:
Look in your newspaper for ideas about how to celebrate Geography Awareness Week.
Teachers: Follow and interact with The Mini Page on Facebook!
by Dan Thompson
SAVVY SENIOR
Best pill boxes and medication management tools
Dear Savvy Senior,
Can you recommend some good pill boxes and medication reminding devices? I’ve recently started taking several new prescription medications, along with some vitamins I normally take, and need to get a pill box that helps me organize them. What can you tell me?
Almost 70
Dear Almost,
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Pill boxes (also known as pill organizers) play an important role in keeping people healthy because they help you stay on top of your medication regimen. There are many options. Here are a few tips to help you choose, along with some top-rated pill boxes as recommended by expert reviewers.
IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS
When choosing an appropriate pill box for you, you first need to ask yourself a few questions, such as:
— How many pills do you take and how big are they? If you take only a few medications, a smaller pill box may be sufficient. But if you’re taking multiple medications and large vitamin supplements, you’ll want to get a large compartment pill box that can hold your daily dosage.
— Do you take your pills once a day or multiple times a day? If you take medications only once a day, a simple pill box with one compartment will do. But if you need to take medications multiple times a day, you’ll want to get a pill box with either two, three or four compartments for each day of the week.
— Do you have problems remembering to take your medications? If so, there are organizers that have built-in alarms and reminding features, or you can download a free med -
By Jim Miller
ication reminding app on your smartphone.
— Do you have a difficult time opening your medication containers? If so, there are easy-open pill boxes or automated medication dispensers that are ideal for those with dexterity problems.
— Do you need a portable pill box for when you’re away from home? There are smaller pill boxes made for traveling, some of which have sealed-shut cases that prevent moisture and dust from entering.
BEST PILL BOXES
With help from The New York Times (Wirecutter) and USA Today (Reviewed), some of the best pill boxes in 2024 are offered by Auvon and Sukuos which make a variety of singleand multiple-compartment pill organizers that are big, colorful and easy to open.
Top-rated options include the “Auvon Weekly Pill Organizer” for once-a-day medication users; “Sukuos AM/PM Weekly 7 Day Pill Organizer” for twice a day use; “Auvon iMedassist Moisture-Proof Weekly Pill Organizer” for four times a day; and the “Auvon Moistureproof Monthly Pill Organizer” for those who want to organize their
medications monthly.
Or, if you’re interested in a travel pill box, the “MUchengbao Travel Pill Organizer” is considered an excellent choice.
All of these pill boxes cost around $10 and are available on Amazon.com or Walmart.com.
HIGH-TECH PILL ORGANIZERS
If you need more help keeping up with your medication regimen, there are smart pill boxes that will organize your pills, remind you to take them, track your progress and even text or email caregivers if pills are missed. A popular option to consider here is EllieGrid (elliegrid.com, $149), which connects the pill box to the EllieGrid app (via Bluetooth) that you install on your smartphone.
Or, if you need more help, there are automated medication dispensers like the Hero (herohealth.com, $45 per month), which is a comprehensive, WiFi connected, app-based system that will remind you when to take your pills and dispense them to you.
MEDICATION REMINDING APPS
If you’re interested in a medication reminding app, some top-rated choices include MyTherapy (mytherapyapp.com) and Medisafe (medisafeapp.com). These are free apps that you can download in the Apple or Google Play app stores that will send you timely notifications to take your pills, and reminders to refill your prescriptions.
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.
TODAY’S HISTORY:
• In 1917, the Russian Revolution occurred as Vladimir Lenin’s Bolshevik forces overthrew Alexander Kerensky’s provisional government.
• In 1944, Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to a record fourth term as U.S. president.
• In 2000, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election was unknown at the end of Election Day, as Al Gore and George W. Bush awaited results in New Mexico, Oregon and Florida.
TODAY’S FACT:
• In 1994, WXYC in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, became the first radio station to offer a 24-hour simulcast on the internet.
Susan Lemieux Breeyear
Susan Lemieux Breeyear, wife, mother, daughter and wellloved member of Trinity Baptist Church in Williston, passed away at the age of 74 on Oct. 10, 2024 at UVM Medical Center after complications from a rare form of cancer.
She was born in Barre April 14, 1950, to Conrad and Norma (Whitehill) Lemieux of Granite -
ville, Vt.
Susan majored in English at the University of Vermont and joined the Peace Corps so she could teach English as a Second Language to students in Senegal, West Africa in the 1970s.
After her college years, Susan was the former Assistant Manager of the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in Durham, NH, and enjoyed playing her guitar and singing for others to share her faith.
She met her husband, James J. Breeyear, in Burlington, Vt. while she was student teaching at a grade school in Essex. They fell in love and married in Williamstown, Vt. on June 8, 1974.
Susan worked at the University of Vermont in the Romance Languages Department, then as the Language Resource Center Coordinator in the Language Lab, and she retired after fifteen years in her position at Saint Michael’s College as the Assistant Director of Instructional Technology.
Susan loved crafting, gardening, reading, taking walks and
OBITUARIES
hiking. She was very devoted to her family and enjoyed participating in the Whitehill family reunions held in Ryegate, each year. After retirement, Susan found her love of quilting. She made beloved quilts for everyone in her family and gave them out as gifts to others as quickly as she finished them. Susan’s good-natured, yet sarcastic sense of humor was loved by all who knew her, and her generous and willing spirit touched the lives of many.
Susan is survived by her husband, James Breeyear; her two daughters, Elisabeth Finstad and Sarah Hyde; her grandchildren, Alex Breeyear, Alicia Potvin, Autumn Finstad, Luke Hyde and Judah Hyde; and her mother, Norma Lemieux.
A memorial service officiated by Pastor Rob McIlwaine was held Nov. 1 at Trinity Baptist Church in Williston. Susan will be laid to rest in the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph.
Cards and donations in her memory may be sent to Trinity
Linda Calkins Janes has now moved on. She will miss you and hopes that your lives will be filled with joy, love, and music.
Linda was the daughter of the late Frederick and Elizabeth Calkins. She was incredibly fortunate to have a brother, Dale Calkins, and a sister Nancy Calkins Fazzio, who were always caring, kind, and loving.
Dale is married to Nancy, and they have two daughters, Allison and Sare, and two grandchildren Toby and Asher.
Nancy is married to Richard and they have two boys, Ben and Wes. Linda also has several cousins: Carol Sturges of CT, Donald Kobs of Myrtle Beach, and Sonna Worth of FL.
Linda’s passions were teaching and music. Her life was filled with wonderful memories.
Linda’s years at Champlain College, both full- and part-time, gave her incredible opportunities to meet students who enriched her life.
Music was the magic in her life. It gave her joy, allowing her to connect with people. Barbershop was the major source of her musical experiences. She sang in medal winning quartets and performed in four choruses, two in the U.S. and two in Canada. She directed three choruses — one to their first international medal — and was a performance judge for more than 25 years.
The common thread was her passion to connect with people, whether it was through music or teaching.
Linda said “I have been fortunate to have been with so many incredible wonderful people; thank you for all you have given me — I will miss you”.
Linda’s family would like to give thanks to her special friend Cathy Michaels and the Sterling House of Richmond for their kindness and compassion.
GIVE LOCAL Williston
Peter E. Thomas
Peter E. Thomas, 84, of Richmond, VT peacefully entered into life with God Oct. 26, 2024, with family at his side.
The youngest of Eustace and Lena (Hicks) Thomas’ 10 children, Peter grew up on the family farm in Shelburne, VT. He married his wife of 41 years, Elaine (Griffith), on May 4, 1963, in Saint Patrick’s Chapel at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Burlington,
settling in Richmond and welcoming children Pamela, Mary Ann, Kimberly, and Kevin.
Peter married Juliet Veve on June 30, 2007, at Saint Anne’s Shrine in Isle La Motte, with her sons William Veve and Victor Veve joining Peter’s family.
After serving in the U.S. Navy, Peter worked at IBM and oversaw facilities at Browns River Middle School. He also operated a flooring business, Quality Carpets, for many years.
In retirement he, Juliet and their dog Tipper brought joy to children with their visits to local schools.
His years included many other moments of joy including trips to Maine, camping, and gardening. Most prominent of all was his care and concern for his family, a legacy continuing in those he loved.
In passing, Peter joins: his parents Eustace and Lena; siblings Herrick, Leonard, Anthony, Mary Eileen, Theresa, and Isabelle; first wife Elaine and their daughter Mary Ann; and daughter-in-law Maryclare Plunkett.
OBITUARIES
Those remembering Peter include: his wife Juliet; siblings Julia Mae Cameron, Hazel Yencha, and Zita Lackenbauer; children Pamela Doran (Richard), Kimberly Thomas, and Kevin Thomas (Rebecca with their children Addison and Colin); stepchildren William Veve (Rita with their son Felix), and Victor Veve (Sarah Stein with their daughters Althea and Theadora); and extended members of the Thomas, Griffith, and Veve families.
Peter’s family thanks those who cared for and ministered to him in his last hours, including Richmond Rescue, the Emergency and ICU staff at UVM Medical Center and Bishop John McDermott.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at his longtime parish of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Richmond Nov. 4, 2024, with burial following at Holy Rosary Cemetery.
Gifts in Peter’s honor may be made to the Knights of Columbus, Rosary Council, PO Box 71, Richmond, VT 05477.
Jeannine E. Lane
Jeannine E. Lane, 91, of South Bend, IN and formerly of Williston, VT, passed away peacefully on Oct.19, 2024 in St. Paul’s Retirement Community.
Jeannine was born Nov. 1, 1932 in Richmond, VT to Armand and Yvonne (LaPointe) Lefebvre.
On June 26, 1954, she married Robert W. Lane. He passed away June 22, 2008.
She is survived by her son, David Mark Lane of Santa Barbara,
CA; son-in-law, Devon “Deak” Thornton of Goshen; three grandchildren, Kenton Thornton of Nappanee, Kathy Spiteri of South Bend and Kristy Miller of Plymouth. She is also survived by two siblings, Norman Lefebvre and Alice McKeown; and by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents, husband, daughter, Diana May Thornton, grandson, Dustin McCain Thornton and four siblings, Florette Mongeon, Nelson Lefebvre, Therese Lesage and Germaine Lefebvre.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 30 at St. John Vianney Church with burial following in Resurrection Park Cemetery.
To send online condolences to her family, please visit www.vtfuneralhomes.com.
Looking for volunteer opportunities?
The United Way of Northwest Vermont has a wide variety of options.
unitedwaynwvt.galaxydigital.com
Sept. 22 at 2:18 a.m. — Following a traffic stop, a male driver was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
Sept. 22 at 10:50 p.m. — Report of a suspicious male on St. George Road. Male was gone before officers’ arrival.
SUDOKU SOLUTION
Puzzle found on page 19
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Puzzle found on page 19
Sept. 23 at 1:26 p.m. — Assisted Williston Rescue with unresponsive male. Male was transported to the hospital.
Sept. 23 at 3:52 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
Sept. 24 at 5:04 p.m. — Report of an intoxicated female at Berlin City. Female was transported to the correctional facility for detox.
Sept. 24 at 9:33 p.m. — Retail theft at Walmart. Suspect left before officers’ arrival.
Sept. 25 at 1:20 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Male suspect was located and issued a citation to appear in court for retail theft.
Sept. 25 at 6:09 p.m. — Following a traffic stop, a female driver was issued a citation for violating conditions of release.
Sept. 26 at 8:45 a.m. — Report of a
vehicle interior disturbed on Porterwood Drive.
Sept. 26 at 2:26 p.m. — Assisted with a VIN verification at Earthy Cars.
Sept. 27 at 3:52 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Marshalls. Suspects left before officers’ arrival.
Sept. 27 at 8:40 p.m. — Suspicious male and female in Dicks Sporting Goods. They did not take anything and left before officers’ arrival.
Sept. 28 at 2:51 a.m. — Following a traffic stop, male driver was issued a citation to appear in court for suspicion of DUI.
Sept. 28 at 11:33 a.m. — Report of an ex-employee stealing tires from Tire Warehouse. Male was issued a citation to appear in court for embezzlement, false pretenses and credit card fraud.
Sept. 28 at 6:58 p.m. — Retail theft reported at Best Buy. Male suspect was located and issued a citation
to appear in court for retail theft.
Sept. 29 at 11:25 a.m. — Amazon package reported stolen from Pleasant Acres Drive.
Sept. 29 at 10:22 p.m. — Assisted Williston Rescue with juvenile having a mental health crisis. Juvenile was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
Sept. 30 at 1:01 p.m. — Assisted with taking a male into custody who had an active arrest warrant out of Alabama. Male was transported to the correctional facility.
Sept. 30 at 1:57 p.m. — Report of a male in Hannaford who is not supposed to be there. Male left before officers’ arrival.
Officers also responded to 12 alarm activations and 18 motor vehicle crashes and
BURIAL LOTS — Six burial lots for sale in the East, Old, Morse Cemetery in Williston. They are located in Section 5, Lot F, Row 8. If you are interested please contact me at plarrow.pl@gmail.com or 813-431-5650 for information.
HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
JOIN OUR TEAM: The City of South Burlington seeks a strategic and visionary Human Resources Director to lead our HR initiatives and foster a vibrant workplace culture. This dedicated HR professional will champion our workforce, support our leaders, and further our mission of community servant leadership. Come help us make a difference and shape the future!
WHAT YOU WILL DO: As the Human Resources Director, you will be the driving force behind our HR policies, procedures and strategies. You will: (1) Develop/implement policies that promote equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. (2) Oversee recruitment, retention, and professional development programs. (3) Partner with city leadership to align HR practices with strategic goals. (4) Foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field required, plus a minimum of five years of experience in human resources leadership and administration, preferably in a municipal setting. Certification as a Human Resources Professional (SHRM, HRI or similar) preferred.
SALARY RANGE: $100,000-$110,000 (annually)
APPLY NOW: Please submit your on-line application, resume and cover letter by November 25, 2024. Learn more: governmentjobs .com/careers/southburlington. The City of South Burlington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
CLASSIFIEDS
LEGAL
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
Tuesday, November 12, 2024 – 7 PM
Industrial Zoning District West (IZDW).
DP 24-19 Matthew & Tammy Ketcham c/o Scott Baker request discretionary permit review of a proposed 2-lot subdivision around two (2) existing dwellings on a 6.60± acre parcel at 5402-5418 St George Rd in the ARZD.
RABIES BAIT
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
continued from page 2
DP 20-11.1 Munson Way, LLC requests discretionary permit review to construct two additional self-storage buildings, adjust a boundary line, and complete stormwater improvements at 53-57 Munson Way in the
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.
DP 22.06.1 Green State Realty, LLC c/o O’Leary-Burke Civil Associates, PLC Karl Marchessault requests discretionary permit review to amend final plans with expanded parking and outdoor storage, as well as a Master Sign Plan, for the MD Motors car dealership at 4626 Williston Rd in the Industrial West Zoning District (IZDW).
Continued from Oct. 22, 2024. Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents,” then “Agendas & Minutes,” and “Development Review Board.” Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org
LEGAL
TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 – 7PM 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
Pre-App 25-04 Charlotte Isham Marcotte Revocable Trust c/o John Marcotte requests pre-application review of proposed 9-lot open space subdivision (8 dwelling lots, 1 open space lot) on a 200.5-ac property on Caboose Ln in the Agricultural Rural Residential Zoning District (ARZD).
saliva. If left untreated, rabies is almost always fatal in humans and animals. However, treatment with the rabies vaccine is nearly 100percent effectivewhengivensoonafter a person is bitten by a rabid animal.
DP 24-09 Gregory, Anna, and Laura Benedetto c/o Doug Goulette request discretionary permit review of a proposed open space 6-lot subdivision on an existing 10.76-ac parcel to create three (3) dwelling lots (1.53, 0.46, and 0.7 ac) and three (3)
open space lots (4.39, 1.37, and 2.31) at 1318 Butternut Rd in the Agricultural/Rural Zoning District (ARZD).
DP 25-03 LNP Inc c/o O’Leary-Burke Civil Associates requests discretionary permit review to amend final plans SP-07-12 with an outdoor storage area at 378 Commerce St in the Industrial West Zoning District (IZDW).
Project details and site plans are available on the website, town.williston.vt.us, under “Public Records and Documents”, then “Agendas & Minutes”, and “Development Review Board”. Contact Planning & Zoning Office for more information: 802-878-6704 or email planning@willistonvt.org
So far this year, 23 animals in Vermont have tested positive for rabies, and 14 of those have been raccoons.
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
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 headtotheLittleLeaguefield the Golf depending land. Rotary’s
Shelburne Historical Society will have a display and president Dorothea Penar will lead a cemetery tour at 1 p.m. Food ven dors 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
Inside Williston’s new homeless shelter
State houses seven families at former VSP barracks
BY CARLY BERLIN VTDigger
As two state-run shelters for families experiencing homelessness opened their doors on Friday, staff rushed to finish work on the temporary accommodations.
The two sites are in state-owned buildings about a 20-minute drive apart in northern Vermont: the former state police barracks in Williston, and the former National Guard armory in Waterbury.
The Williston site, located along Route 2A near a bus route, has space to accommodate seven families. By Friday morning, individual rooms — each with multiple cots and several with cribs — had been set up.
“We’re expecting some smaller children,” said Amanda Wheeler, press secretary for Gov. Phil Scott, during a tour of the shelter.
The state’s decision to open the family shelters comes on the heels of a mass wave of evictions from Vermont’s motel voucher program that began in mid-September, after new restrictions on the program imposed by lawmakers earlier this year kicked in.
As of Oct. 28, nearly 1,400 people had exhausted their motel vouchers this fall — including 343 children.
At the Williston shelter, each room will have its own lock, affording families privacy and a
place to securely store their belongings. A large common space is filled by rows of tables, where employees from the Agency of Human Services will be onsite daily to help connect people to a range of resources, like food support and employment help. A play area is set up in one corner, full of toys, many donated by Williston residents, Wheeler said.
Shelter guests will also have access to a kitchen, stocked Friday with food donations. They’ll be able to store their own food there and cook, too.
The shelter has common bathrooms with showers, Wheeler said, along with laundry machines.
While there won’t be onsite security, staff will be at the shelter around the clock, said Wheeler. She noted that the new Vermont State Police barracks is just down the road.
“It’s not an open door,” said Monica Hutt, Vermont’s chief prevention officer. “Families will have access to the front door if they are staying here, but nobody else will.”
The shelters won’t have walkin access — instead, families will need to go through an intake process with the state in order to secure a spot.
Families seeking access to the shelter can call (802) 798-9597 for the Waterbury location, and (802) 760-0159 for Williston.
On Friday morning, the Waterbury Armory appeared to be more of a work in progress than
the Williston shelter. Somewhat removed from downtown, tucked against Interstate 89 at the end of an access road, state employees filed in and out of the building on Friday morning but did not allow a reporter and photographer inside to view the arrangements.
Similar to Williston, the Waterbury shelter will have showers and laundry available. The building has a large industrial kitchen, making it more difficult for individual families to cook, so breakfast and dinner will be provided, McClure said.
The shelters will be primarily staffed by state employees, with assistance from contracted workers, officials said. McClure confirmed Friday that the contractor is IEM, a North Carolina-based emergency management company. According to its website, IEM provides management and support for shelter operations, with a particular focus on asylum seekers and disaster victims.
The state plans to operate the Williston and Waterbury shelters through the winter, until April 1. An additional family shelter location is in the works for Montpelier, though officials have not yet decided on a building to use there, DCF Commissioner Chris Winters said in an interview last Tuesday.
This story, by Report for America corps member Carly Berlin, was produced through a partnership between VTDigger and Vermont Public.
Top, one of the rooms at a temporary shelter for unhoused families at the former Vermont State Police barracks in Williston, seen on Friday. Middle, a sign has been posted to greet people as they arrive at the shelter. Below, there is a kitchen set up that people staying at the shelter can use.
