Williston Observer 3/11/2021

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PAGE 9

MARCH 11, 2021

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Penguin Plunge reimagined

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Williston police arrest South Burlington officer Cop charged with DUI

BY JASON STARR Observer staff Investigators don’t yet have a clear picture of what led a South Burlington police officer to sustain an injury at a home in Hinesburg and allegedly drive under the influence of alcohol Sunday.

But after responding to the residence on Texas Hill Road around 3 a.m. that morning, they believe they have enough evidence to charge Michael Goslin, 29, an officer in his third year with the South Burlington Police Department, with DUI. Goslin, who was off duty at the time, refused a request

by Williston Police to submit to a blood-alcohol test, according to a press release from Williston Sgt. Bart Chamberlain.

He was arrested and taken to the Williston Police Department, and later released with a citation to appear in Vermont Superior Court in Burlington on May 13.

Police were called to the residence after reports that see ARREST page 2

Industrial Avenue overhaul begins

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: CVU Principal Adam Bunting, right, shows his enthusiasm for this year’s Penguin Run to benefit Special Olympics Vermont on Saturday at Williston Central School along with members of the Williston Fire Department; CVU students run out of the school and into the snow and frozen mist in sub-freezing temperatures; Special Olympics Vermont President Missy Shea, left, joins members of the Williston Fire Department to tap a hydrant to create a mist for participants to run through. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY AND PRESCOTT NADEAU

Students, staff make a run for it in modified Special Olympics fundraiser OBSERVER STAFF REPORT Typically each winter, Williston students and teachers gird for the chills of Lake Champlain, taking a dip in the icy water as part of the Penguin Plunge fundraiser for Special Olympics Vermont.

This season, due to the pandemic, Special Olympics challenged supporters to get creative in “remote plunge” events. Students and staff from Williston Central School and Champlain Valley Union High School did just that, creating a “Penguin Run” in the WCS parking lot.

Firefighter Tim Gerry poses with his daughter Lillee at the Penguin Run on Saturday at WCS.

Participants burst from the building in waves Saturday morning, many dressed for summer in the

sub-freezing temperatures, and ran through a freezing mist from Williston Fire Department hoses and manmade snow from Cochran’s Ski Area snowmaking machines.

“It must’ve been single digits with the wind chill and you would’ve thought it was a tropical vacation the way people were smiling, laughing and pumping each other up,” Williston firefighter Prescott Nadeau said.

CVU and WCS are among the top fundraisers each winter at the Penguin Plunge. Last year, CVU’s team raised nearly $35,000, and the Williston schools raised about $15,000 for Special Olympics.

When it was announced that the Penguin Plunge would not happen as normal, CVU teacher Peter Booth, a longtime leader of the school’s see PLUNGE page 24

Work will begin Monday on reconstruction of the intersection of Industrial Avenue and Route 2 near the Williston and South Burlington town line.

The project will continue through at least two construction seasons, according to Vermont Agency of Transportation Project Manager Bruce Martin, finishing no earlier than the fall of 2022 and costing roughly $7.5 million.

A detour will be required for a couple weeks this summer — only at night — Martin said, diverting Industrial Avenue traffic onto North Brownell Road to connect with Route see OVERHAUL page 2

The intersection of Route 2 and Industrial Avenue will be widened and improved over the course of the next two years.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY JASON STARR

Page 2 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

PROPERTY TRANSFERS Property transfers in Williston in January and February Kim Eunkyung bought a condominium on Zephyr Road from Mark Graupman for $415,500.

Robert Oppenheimer bought a home on 1 acre on South Brownell Road from Peter Irving for $755,000.

Daniel Sisco bought a condominium on Foxwood Circle from Michael Ryan for $253,500.

Susan Snow bought a condominium on Read Road from Zachary Sears for $237,500.

Dinh Vu bought a condominium on James Brown Drive from John Adams for $230,000.

Bryan Gilwee bought a home on Creek’s Edge Drive from Snyder Creek’s Edge LLC for $540,150.

David Pietricola bought a home on Stoneybrook Drive from Joseph Cowhig for $354,900.

Christopher Trapeni bought a home on a half acre on Tamarack Drive from Fay Freeman-Palmer for $512,000.

Romain Feuillette bought a home on Metcalf Drive from the Thomas C. Spencer Trust for $579,150.

Bobbie Jo Merriam bought a home on Porterwood Drive from Stephen Waterhouse for $186,000.

Margaret Widmeier bought a home on Williston Woods Road from the Estate of Ann E. White for $175,000.

Stefan Bachofen bought a condominium on Balsam Circle from Sara Barry for $540,000.

Jamie Deutsch bought a home on one acre on South Road from the estate of Gregory A. Blair for $290,000.

Matthew Higgins bought a home on a half acre on Bingham Hill Lane from Brandon Degre for $476,280.

Stewart Shearer bought a condominium on Abbey Road from Michele Streeter for $297,000.

Four Lemnah LLC bought a condominium on Marion Way from the Frank Powe Trust for $315,000.

Johnathan Barone bought a home on 20 acres on Old Creamery Road from Nancy Stone for $630,000.

Scott Paluska bought a home on 3 acres on Sutton Farm Drive from the Andrew and Dana Freeman Joint Trust for $1.21 million.

James Benoit bought a home on Honeysuckle Lane from the Ellen B. Gallagher Trust for $413,000.

Andrew Hunt bought property on one acre on Caroline Court from Adams Real Properties LLC for $259,000.

1298 SB Road LLC bought a commercial property at South Brownell Road from 1298 South Brownell Road, Unit 20 LLC for $642,500.

Ashley Kraybill bought a home on Bradley Lane from Leslie Powell for $672,500.

Susan Dodge bought a home on Madison Drive from Brett Grabowski for $310,000.

Terri Lavalette bought a home on Porterwood Drive from Chelsea Trombley for $180,000.

Harry Jacobson bought a home on Michael Lane from Chris Senesac for $582,900.

Colin Iverson bought a condominium on Chelsea Place from Alexa Cardinal for $140,115.

Arrest continued from page

1

Goslin drove a car while intoxicated, according to Chamberlain. Refusing a blood-alcohol test could lead to a more severe sentence if there is a conviction.

Goslin was placed on injury leave due to an injury sustained the night of the arrest, according to South Burlington Police Chief Shawn Burke. Burke is awaiting the results of investigations by the Williston police and Vermont State Police to de-

Overhaul continued from page

1

2 slightly east of the intersection.

Two-way traffic will be maintained on Route 2 for the majority of the construction, but will occasionally be reduced to an alternating onelane flow at night.

Engineers Construction Inc., which happens to be headquartered at the intersection, is the state’s contractor on the project.

The reconstruction will widen the intersection, adding a left-turn lane for Route 2 traffic to turn north onto Industrial Avenue, as well as left- and rightturn lanes for traffic turning onto Route 2 from Industrial Avenue.

Sidewalks will be built on the south side of Route 2 and the east side of Industrial Avenue

­­— Property Transfers sponsored by Polli Properties —

termine whether Goslin, who is a resident of Hinesburg, will be disciplined.

Williston Police Chief Patrick Foley said he is unsure why Hinesburg police were not already on scene when Shepard arrived. An ambulance was on scene, Foley said.

“There was a lot going on that morning,” Foley said. “There was a lot of commotion … I’m not sure what the whole story is.”

with new crosswalks through the intersection. A bus pull-off will also be built on Route 2 just east of the intersection, and Route 2 will be repaved from the intersection to the South Burlington line.

In addition, the Town of Williston public works department will take the opportunity to improve a water service line in the area.

Construction signs are set to go up Monday at the intersection. The majority of the work this month will be on utilities, which won’t affect traffic, Martin said. Roadway work and traffic impacts are expected to start April 5.

March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 3

Williston rep elevated to chair of school board

For the first time since local school districts merged to create the regional Champlain Valley School District in 2017, a Williston representative will chair the school board.

A majority of board members voted for Angela Arsenault last week to lead the board. Chairs are chosen annually after Town Meeting Day. Arsenault answered the following questions from the Observer about the board’s work in the upcoming year.

Q: How long have you been on the board and what is the role of the chair? Why were you interested in taking on that responsibility?

A: I’m entering my third year on the board.

The chair works with the superintendent to develop a framework for the board workplan, which is then fleshed out with the full board. She also facilitates board meetings and spearheads effective communication between board members and the adminis-

tration, as well as fostering an inclusive, co-creative spirit among board members.

I’m particularly interested in continuing board education around equity and anti-racism. I’m excited to bring to the board everything I’ve learned and will learn through my involvement with an incredible group called the Education Justice Coalition of Vermont. I look forward to facilitating meetings where lively discussion is encouraged and space is made for all voices to be heard.

I also aim to build a dynamic workplan that is proactive, but leaves room for us to be a responsive board with an eye toward more student and community input.

Q: Does the board have a plan for using the federal pandemic relief funds expected to come out of the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act? A: The board plan for the relief funds will be to rely on the expertise of our district administrators to allocate the funds we receive in the way that best serves all

A: The vaccination of school staff is very exciting! I’m thrilled about this as a parent in our district because I know it’s bringing a sense of relief to many people who’ve worked tirelessly for our students throughout the pandemic.

That said, the decision to increase in-person instruction is a multi-faceted one and ultimately rests in the hands of our superintendent, Elaine Pinckney. She will continue to work with principals to try to find a safe way to bring our seventh- and eighth-graders back for more in-person learning, while adhering to Department of Health and Agency of Education guidance.

Angela Arsenault

students. As an oversight body, the board will ask questions and follow up when we understand how the monies are to be spent.

Q: Will the vaccination of teachers, starting this week, help the district re-open school buildings full time before the end of the school year?

Q: How has the district made progress toward racial equity with the implementation of the new equity policy and potential hiring of an equity director and how will that work continue?

A: The board will hear from CVSD’s co-lead Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) coaches next week (March 16). They’ve been working with additional DEI

coaches in each school building this year and will share with us an overview of their initiatives to date.

The adoption of an equity policy is an important step, but even more important will be the subsequent system-wide review of practices and honest discussions about what’s missing. How are we meeting the tenets of this policy and where are we coming up short?

And then, of course, what do we do about it?

Hiring a Director of DEI is also a wonderful and necessary step, and I hope our entire school community will welcome this person into the district and support her or him in what is sure to be a challenging role.

No single person or position or policy can repair the harm that is caused by racism and inequity. I’ve heard it said recently that schools are very good at replicating a culture. If we truly want to see progress within our district, we all need to be making progress outside of the school system, as well. see ARSENAULT page 5

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Page 4 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Vaccine eligibility expanded; people of color prioritized

BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger Vermonters 16 and older with high-risk conditions will be able to register for the COVID-19 vaccine beginning Thursday, an earlier date than originally planned, officials said at a press conference Tuesday.

Those with high-risk conditions who are 55 and older were eligible beginning Monday, but fewer people in that category signed up than expected, said Gov. Phil

Scott — fewer than 10,000 as of Tuesday.

The state announced the highrisk eligibility criteria last week at the same time it announced new eligibility for teachers and correctional officers. Secretary of Human Services Mike Smith said it was possible the news about high-risk eligibility had been lost in the fray.

Smith said 8,600 teachers and school staff members have made appointments since Monday.

Dr. Mark Levine, commis-

COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE Now vaccinating Vermonters

with certain high-risk health conditions.

Current cancer Chronic kidney disease COPD or Emphysema Weakened immune system Heart disease

sioner of the Department of Health, said the state also plans to expand eligibility to household members of older and high-risk people of color.

A person of color who is eligible to get the vaccine may bring household members to their appointment to get vaccinated as well, even if they wouldn’t normally qualify, Levine said. That is an expansion of an existing program that targeted non-English-speaking households in certain communities.

Levine cited vaccine data that shows Vermonters of color have a significantly lower vaccination rate than white Vermonters. About 22 percent of white Vermonters have received at least one dose of the vaccine, while rates for other racial

VACCINATION PROGRESS • 127,454 people (23.1 percent of the population) have received at least one dose of vaccine.

• 68,910 people have received the complete two doses of vaccine.

Reported by the Vermont Department of Health on Tuesday groups vary from 2-13 percent.

Levine said that, along with vaccine hesitancy and a lack of outreach to people of color, the state’s current vaccine prioritization puts

people of color at a disadvantage.

“Our priority schemes today, which emphasize older age and residents in long-term care facilities, do not always help this population, due to the lower likelihood of living in such facilities, or in having sufficient life expectancy” to get to the age that qualifies for a vaccine, Levine said.

Vermonters who are eligible for the vaccine due to their age or condition can go to the state’s website (www.healthvermont.gov), register through a pharmacy program or call the state hotline to get an appointment at 855-722-7878.

School staff and correctional officers will receive registration information directly from their emsee VACCINE page 5

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March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 5

complications among Vermont’s high-risk population are declining. Cases are down 70 percent among Vermonters 70 and older, compared to a 27 percent decline among Vermonters below 70.

Pieciak said the state predicts seven to 15 deaths in the month of March, compared to 25 in February and 71 in December, the peak of deaths so far in the pandemic.

The vast majority of Vermonters 75 and older — more than 80 percent — have received at least one dose of the vaccine, Pieciak said.

He said Census data shows about 70 percent of Vermonters plan to get vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced guidance that allows vaccinated people to gather indoors without masks, and allows Health Commissioner Mark Levine discusses the state’s COVID-19 response vaccinated people to gather with at a press conference in July. FILE PHOTO BY MIKE DOUGHERTY/VTDIGGER non-vaccinated people. Vermont The state recorded 901 cases has implemented that guidance at in the past week, an increase over a state level. continued from page 4 694 the week before and a signifiScott said that, this Friday, the cant reversal from the progress the state will announce an additional ployers so that they can sign up for state had been making on declin- step for unvaccinated Vermonters. an appointment, Smith said. Those ing cases in the past four weeks, “We’ve taken one of the most appointments will still be made eiaccording to the state’s latest methodological and scientific apther on the Department of Health data presentation. proaches to the virus in the nation, website, or through a pharmacy, Some of those new cases which has made us one of the safjust like other Vermonters’ vaccicould be attributed to a Northern est states,” he said. nations.

State Correctional Facility outVermont banned multi-housebreak, which involves more than hold gatherings in November after 100 cases so far, said Michael outbreaks cropped up from social New vaccinations, Pieciak, commissioner of the De- events. new rules partment of Financial Regulation.

Scott emphasized the continScott also teased a forthcom- But the outbreak doesn’t entirely ued importance of following public ing loosening of gathering restric- account for the rise. health guidance. tions, citing progress in the vacPieciak said the data was less “And even as we vaccinate cination of Vermonters — even concerning than it might have more people, it’s as important as though cases have been rising. been otherwise because cases and ever to follow the public health guidelines, like wearing a mask, washing your hands, staying physically distant and staying home when sick,” he said. “We’re in the final quarter DONATE YOUR VEHICLE of this very tough game, so let’s all do our part.”

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Little League signups extended through Wednesday Preseason indoor practices available for baseball and softball

Williston Little League will offer COVID-safe activities this spring.

Children ages 5 to 12 can play t-ball, baseball or softball. No prior experience is needed, just a willingness to play and have fun.

Signups have been extended to Wednesday. Email Williston Little League at willistonlittleleague@gmail.com to have your child placed on a team.

The Little League Board of Directors is aiming to have a normal season schedule, starting in April and ending in early June. Even before the season starts, Williston Little League will offer training and learning opportunities at the Strike Zone in Essex. Every Sunday, Little League has the Strike Zone available for up to 30 kids to practice indoors with coaches.

The league aims to teach kids passion, sportsmanship and the sports of baseball and softball. According to Little League president Jeff Audette, the board has four additional goals for the season: to increase access to sports, to improve training opportunities for both players and coaches, to stay in tune with the specific needs of a league in our community and to ensure the players can compete safely.

Williston Little League is also partnering with Dick’s Sporting Goods by using the GameChanger app that tracks stats and scores throughout the season. For more information, email willistonlittleleague@gmail.com.

— Eva Benway

Arsenault continued from page

3

Q: With the school resource officer position not being renewed, what will be the district’s strategy for school safety?

A: The district’s strategy for school safety will include contracted threat-assessment professionals, as well as a closer collaboration with the Hinesburg Police Department. It’s worth noting that one of the most effective school safety measures is to create an environment in which students feel connected, or like they’re part of a community, and this has been a focus of our educators all along. That doesn’t change with the removal of an SRO.

Q: Is there anything else Williston residents should know about the work of the school board.

A: We welcome student and community input. Though we can’t always provide immediate answers, we are open to listening and understanding community concerns. We also love to hear about what brings you joy in our schools!

We’ll be discussing ways to foster more meaningful board/ stakeholder interactions at our next meeting (March 16). Let us know if you have any ideas. And if you can’t make it to a board meeting, you can reach out via email: CVSDSchoolBoard@cvsdvt.org.

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Page 6 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

GUEST COLUMN

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Mailing address: P.O. Box 1401 Williston, Vt. 05495 PUBLISHER: Susan T. Cote susan@willistonobserver.com EDITOR: Jason Starr editor@willistonobserver.com ADVERTISING: Marianne Apfelbaum 802-872-9000 marianne@willistonobserver.com PRODUCTION: Sue Storey sstorey@willistonobserver.com MEMBER: Burlington Area Newspaper Group

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Are you impacting the system or reflecting it?

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a transcript of what Rep. Hal Colston of Winooski read into the Vermont House of Representatives record on Feb. 16.

BY HAL COLSTON February is Black History Month. I don’t believe there should be a Black History Month. Why? Because it tokenizes black history. While its inception was noble from Carter G. Woodson, who established Negro History Week in 1926, its reception for me is less than a minority report for black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).

And then I cascade into an abyss, abhorring the word “minority,” which is pejorative at its root — less than, not good enough, inferior. I am not inferior.

I don’t think it is possible to bring attention in one month to

The Williston Observer reserves the right to edit or refuse any submissions or advertising. Opinions expressed in the paper are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the paper.

the myriad of contributions conceived, created and consummated by Americans who descended from African slaves. Black history has happened every day of every month of every year that this country has existed. Since 1619. This is beyond impact.

James Baldwin, who I regard as one of black America’s most prolific prophets, wrote a book entitled “Remember this House.” He was only able to write 30 pages before he passed. This work became the award-winning documentary “I Am Not Your Negro.”

This is how Baldwin defined a negro: “What white people need to do is to find out why it was necessary in the first place to have a negro. Because I am not a negro; I am a man. If you think I am a negro, it is because you need it. If I am a negro here, then you, the white people, invented him. Then, you have to find out why. The future of our country depends on that, whether

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or not it has even asked that question.”

What if the negro was not invented? How would our country have worked without chattel slavery, the exploitation of black and brown people who became the backbone of our capitalistic system? Who would you be? Who would we be?

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.

Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.”

One way this garment manifests itself for me is through structural racism. Structural racism is the normalization of many dynamics that are historical, cultural, institutional and interpersonal, and that routinely advantage white people while producing chronic, adverse outcomes for people of color. All of us are wounded by this system. All of us are oppressed by this system.

All of us lose part of our humanity because of this system. When our country honestly looks into the mirror, this is beyond reflection.

So, when you look into the mirror, do you see an impact or a reflection? Is your life a reflection of the American experience of white supremacy culture — and I am not talking about “white hoods” but “white dominance” of nearly every institution in this country? Or is your life an impact of social and racial equity that must shape our country, our state and our communities to be a “more perfect union?”

Are you making an impact or making a reflection?

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March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Budget gratitude A heartfelt thank you goes out to Champlain Valley School District voters for your continued support of the Champlain Valley School District’s students and schools.

The district’s budget passed overwhelmingly. In this year — a year that has tested the creativity, patience and tenacity of each and every one of us — the community came together in support of public education.

As the CVSD board moves out of the planning and development phase of the budget cycle and into the implementation, rest assured the administration and the board are committed to increasing in-person learning.

While the voting process for this year is complete, I welcome you to continue to engage with us each month at our monthly board meetings. Meeting details, Zoom log-ins and agendas can be found at www.cvsdvt.org, or reach out to me at kbowen@cvsdvt.org.

Wishing you and your families continued good health, and happy spring.

Kelly A. Bowen St. George Champlain Valley School Board vice chair

Overstepping bounds for BLM Town officials have overstepped their position (“Black Lives Matter flag rises at Town Hall” March 4). To make a decision that reflects the views of all the residents in the Town of Williston is not their call To display a Black Lives Matter flag is an individual’s right. If a person wishes to display a BLM flag on their own property, that is up to them. If that person wants to support this organization, maybe you don’t know about the destruction and violence the BLM movement is responsible for.

I would not reward this organization by displaying their flag, and I wouldn’t display their flag at our schools. BLM is not a role model for our children or society.

For the record, all lives matter.

If you’re someone who feels responsible for something that happened over 155 years ago, or maybe you feel your white privilege, that is on you. Don’t project your guilt and empathy on others by displaying a BLM flag. Because I’m not responsible for something that happened 155 years ago and I’m not white privileged. I work hard for what I have.

Solution: If you want to stop kids from using racist language,

ban it from being used in movies and music. If they don’t hear it, they won’t say it.

Solution: Educate people about the law and the consequences of breaking the law and how to cooperate with the police if you are stopped, questioned or arrested.

Their job is to enforce the laws, protect and serve the community.

Your job is to obey the law.

Solution: If the people of Williston want to display a flag that shows unity, there is an American flag with a heart and the word “Unity.” This flag doesn’t represent any organization and sends a clear message of peace.

David Martel Williston

Marching toward a vaccinated Vermont With March now well underway, so too is the march toward a vaccinated Vermont. More than one-fifth of Vermonters have received at least one vaccine dose.

Nationally, the pace of distribution and administration quickens by the day. Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine offers not only another source but one that can reach more populations, since it is not as challenging to store.

This week, teachers and those with high-risk conditions will be-

gin to be vaccinated in our state.

Vaccinating educators and daycare staff not only gets kids back to school, but also fuels our economy.

From there, the pace will only speed up as the supply chain improves and Vermont’s collaborative network of vaccine providers stands more and more ready for new doses.

With the sun shining bright

a little more often, and vaccines flowing a little more readily, spring feels closer each day. If we stay on our current course here in Vermont, and don’t lose patience too soon with still-critical prevention measures, we will see a spring that truly fits the season’s definition.

Jeff Teman President Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems

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Page 8 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Brady chosen to lead League of Cities and Towns

Village visitor

This bobcat was recently spotted hanging out in Williston Village in the woods between Bradish Lane and Penny Lane. PHOTO BY MEGHAN COPE

30 YEARS

The Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) Board of Directors has appointed Williston’s Ted Brady as the organization’s new executive director. Brady currently serves as deputy secretary of the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development and will assume his new role in early April.

“We selected Ted because of his public management experience, his broad public policy knowledge and his demonstrated ability to work with leaders across Vermont, and in the state and federal governments, to help improve our communities,” said VLCT president Miro Weinberger, the mayor of Burlington.

Founded in 1967, the non-profit VLCT represents the interests of cities, towns and villages across Vermont at the state and federal levels, and provides training and assistance to municipal officials.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to represent and serve the most dedicated, patriotic and creative people in Vermont — those who make our cities, towns and villages run,” said Brady. “Our local governments and the people who lead them define our state and make it unique. I look forward to working with Vermont’s community leaders and the league staff to navigate the pandemic recovery and help our

communities thrive.”

Brady has served as deputy secretary of the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development since 2017.

Previously he worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and in the office of Sen. Patrick Leahy. A graduate of St. Michael’s College, Brady is married to Erin Brady, who represents Williston in the Vermont House of Representatives and on the Champlain Valley School Board.

“Ted has been a champion for Vermont’s communities throughout his career,” said Gov. Phil Scott. “He’s been at the forefront of our efforts to revitalize downtowns and village centers, secured federal and state funding to help communities identify priorities and address them, and has been an invaluable resource to local leaders in every corner of the state.

We’re definitely going to miss him, but the league will be well served by his experience and commitment.”

The league board of directors conducted a national search to fill the position with the assistance of a private consultant.

Brady was chosen from a pool of nearly 40 candidates from 15 states.

He will be the fourth VLCT executive director, succeeding Maura Carroll upon her retirement.

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Enter the Williston Observer Coloring Contest!

Email a PDF or a photo of your finished artwork to marianne@willistonobserver.com by Tuesday, March 30.

Our judges will select a winner in three age groups: 6 years and younger, 7-12 years, and 13 years and older.

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Page 10 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Taking aim at a restaurant recovery

BY SUSAN COTE Observer staff This past year has been tough for the owners and employees of Williston’s restaurants. Roughly two-thirds of the town’s 29-some eateries are independent or part of a small regional group.

Williston’s restaurants, like their counterparts around the state and country, have faced tremendous challenges, including sharp declines in revenues and stringent new health guidelines to follow, since the outset of the COVID-19

global pandemic in March 2020 and the imposition of restrictions that are part of Gov. Phil Scott’s “Be Smart, Stay Safe” order.

The Vermont Sandwich Company, located in Maple Tree Place, decided to close down in May 2020 due to pandemic-related financial hardship. It had been in business since 1996.

Data from the Vermont Department of Taxes shows that for the two most recently reported quarters, April-June and July-September 2020, restaurant meal receipts in Williston were down 56.3

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percent and 30.1 percent, respec- 1 percent local option tax on sales, tively, versus the prior year. These which is less volatile, this approach figures were slightly worse than led the town to project slightly those for Chittenden County as a lower total local option tax revewhole and worse than those for the nue year over year, a reduction of state, which experienced declines $25,000, contributing to an overall of 45 percent and 26.6 percent projected town revenue decline of year-over-year in taxable meal re- almost $100,000 or 0.86 percent. ceipts for those same time periods.

In dollar terms, Williston How are restaurants meal revenues in April-June 2020 were down over $5.6 million, and getting by? in July-September 2020 over $3.1 million versus the same periods in Many area restaurants have 2019. That’s a lot of dough, or su- relied on take-out and delivery shi, or burgers. services to maintain some levBecause Williston exacts a 1 el of business. Some have closed percent local option tax on rooms, for temporary periods or limited meals and alcohol sales, business their days of operation. At present, losses across all three of these the state’s restaurants may offer categories had in-person dinimplications for ing at up to 50 New help for the newly passed percent capacity town budget. under strict conrestaurants comes “For FY ditions, includ22 we built the ing seating only in the form of the budget for the one household rooms and meals per table, main$1.9 trillion relief portion using the taining at least 3-year rolling avfeet between package just passed 6parties erage excluding and end2020 data and aping table service by the U.S. Senate plied a ‘COVID by 10 p.m. On adjustment’ to Tuesday, Gov. and expected to decrease projectScott indicated ed rooms, meals reach President Joe he plans to anand alcohol tax nounce some revenue,” said Biden’s desk by the loosening of reTown Manager strictions for the end of the week.

Erik Wells. “This state’s restau‘COVID adjustrants this Friday. ment’ graduated In Vermont, down each quarter in our budget- various efforts over the past year ing model with the assumption that have aimed to help restaurants hold things would improve as we work on. These include the ongoing Verfurther through the pandemic.” mont Everyone Eats program that While the town also collects a pays restaurants to prepare meals

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for the food insecure, grant programs and a free hospitality consulting service, called On the Fly, funded by the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development and the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund through the end of 2020. Presentations by the group offered research and ideas to help businesses adapt to COVID-19 conditions and are still available to view online at www.ontheflyvermont.com.

New help for restaurants comes in the form of the $1.9 trillion relief package just passed by the U.S. Senate and expected to reach President Joe Biden’s desk by the end of the week. The bill carves out a $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund that will serve up grants to help cover pandemic-related losses experienced by restaurants, bars, caterers, tasting rooms and breweries, as well as restaurant groups with 20 or fewer locations.

Twenty percent of program funds are reserved specifically to benefit small operators, those that grossed less than $500,000 in 2019, according to Nation’s Restaurant News.

The fate of our restaurants has meaningful impact on the economy at large. The National Restaurant Association estimated that in 2018 there were 1,413 eating and drinking locations in Vermont and roughly 29,600 people employed in these and other foodservice businesses in 2019, representing about 9 percent of Vermont’s workforce.

The organization estimates that the industry in the U.S. lost $240 billion in sales (off 27 percent) and 3.1 million jobs (down 20 percent) in 2020 versus expectations.

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Page 12 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

IT'S TIME TO PUT YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING FIRST

Questions for camp seekers

You First members get: • Assistance with screenings for heart disease, breast and cervical cancer—plus additional diagnostic tests.

• Help navigating the health care system, understanding test results and getting to appointments.

• Payment of covered out-of-pocket costs beyond what insurance pays.

• On-demand health coaching to help YOU in your wellness journey.

• For members 30+, extras like gym memberships, Farmers' Market coupons, WW and Curves, and more!

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March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 13

Camps continued from page

child once they’re at camp? Summer camp and letters go together like peas and carrots. But with newer technologies, many camps have updated ways of communicating with or seeing your child in action at camp.

• How does the camp handle dietary or physical needs or restrictions?

12

The process begins at home, and below are a series of questions designed to help jump-start your quest for the right camp. Some of these questions are for the camper and their family, and others are recommended for talking with prospective camps.

Questions specific to day camps

Questions for families to consider

• What or who prompted the camp conversation? Is this a family tradition? Is the camper receiving encouragement from friends? Are you all looking for an opportunity to learn skills, take chances and make friends? Is there a specific sport or skill your camper wants to develop at camp?

• What values would you like to see reflected in your child’s camp? Camps are intentional communities. What they do and why is reflected in the staff they hire, schedules they follow, activities they offer and materials they produce. It’s good to set expectations for this piece prior to talking with prospective camps.

• What activities or programs interest your camper? These could be current Campers set sail at Alford Lake Camp in Maine. PHOTO COURTESY OF ACA NEW ENGLAND sports or activities your child enjoys or new curiosities your future camper wants to explore.

• What type of camp are you looking for? This is like building your camp’s profile. Are you looking for a day camp or • Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA)? ACA accredovernight experience? Should the camp itation is a voluntary, peer-review probe single-gender or coed? What length cess for camps. It examines all aspects of session works best for your schedule of the camp’s program — activities, (seven-week, four-week, two-week, onehiring practices, facilities, wellness poliweek)? What are non-negotiable aspects cies, etc. — and is guided by nearly 300 and what are preferences? Take some time standards. to create a description that feels right.

• What is the culture or philosophy at • What is your budget for camp tuition? When camp? Compare these answers to the figuring this number, leave room for regisvalues you’re looking for in your child’s tration fees, transportation, trips, specialty camp experience. programs, etc. At some camps, this could be covered under tuition while others have • Is pricing all inclusive, or are there additional charges for registration, uniforms, more a la carte pricing. Financial aid is specialty programs, trips, etc.? available at many camps, but those procedures vary. Be sure to check online and any • Is transportation to and/or from camp available, and what are the specifics? other materials you’ve collected for more information on financial help.

• How may I communicate with my

• Is before/after camp care available? If so, which staff are available at these times? What activities are offered?

What is the additional cost?

• Are meals provided or should we pack a lunch?

• What are the pick-up and drop-off procedures for camp?

Finding the right camp for your family is just the beginning of the camp journey, and these questions are suggestions for getting you started.

This article was provided by the American Camp Association, New England. For more information, visit www.acanewengland.org, call (781) 541-6080 or email camp@acanewengland.org.

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Page 14 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Meeting pet adoption demand at the Humane Society

BY CLAIRE MACQUEEN Special to the Observer Demand for pets has risen since the start of the pandemic, and the Humane Society of Chittenden County is working to meet the demand in a COVID-conscious way.

“We always have to think quickly on our feet in general because animals are very unpredictable,” said Erin Alamed, director of volunteer and community outreach at the Humane Society of Chittenden County, “so we’re really good about implementing new protocols quickly.”

These new protocols include health screenings for everyone who enters the building, asking staff to work from home if possible and reducing the number of volunteers from around 200 to around 20 on a spaced-out schedule.

The most noticeable change, though, is the adoption appointments. Instead of the organization’s South Burlington headquarters being open to the public, those looking to bring home a new dog, cat or other small furry friend must first make an appointment online to meet with an adoption counselor to make sure a pet fits into their

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household. These appointments fill up fast.

Madeleine Murray is a Burlington resident who recently adopted a kitten, Willow, from the Humane Society. Though she is grateful for her new cat, she admits the process was stressful because of the high demand for appointments.

Currently in self-quarantine, Murray is grateful for the extra company of her new kitten.

“She just makes me a little bit happier in a time when I’m a little bit sadder,” she said.

The majority of animals coming into the Humane Society are relinquished by their owners for a variety of reasons. The Humane Society also receives shipments from the south that pull animals from high-volume shelters once or twice a month.

Despite having to close their doors to visitors in March 2020 and pause animal transports until mid-summer, the adoption numbers for 2020 nearly matched that of 2019, surprising the staff.

“We can’t seem to hang on to animals,” said Alamed with a laugh. “They’re getting adopted very quickly … This is the least amount of cats we’ve had in our shelter since I’ve been here, which has been six years.”

It is not just in Vermont. Nationwide, pet adoptions have in-

creased over the course of the pandemic. With more Americans

happier, so I think people are realizing how much that is impacting

Popcorn the cat is currently housed at the Humane Society of Chittenden County, but is already adopted. PHOTO BY DEVANY DI PAOLO/COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE

social distancing and working from home, many are taking the opportunity to adopt a pet for company.

“People are working from home, people are lonely… I feel like there’s that aspect of having that something to come home to, something to be at home with to comfort you,” said Alamed. “Animals bring such joy to our lives, they make us healthier, make us

their life.”

Pets can provide a sense of purpose and bonding during a difficult time, though it leaves some worried about the fate of these animals once restrictions are lifted.

The extent of how changing restrictions will affect adopted animals is still unclear, but the see HUMANE SOCIETY page 15

March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 15

new to WILLISTON BUT NOT TO BANKING

From the FDIC for COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT Erin Alamed, director of volunteer and community outreach at the Humane Society of Chittenden County, holds a recently adopted dog, Twix. PHOTO BY DEVANY DI PAOLO/COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE

Humane Society continued from page

14

Humane Society makes it clear that animal welfare work and education are very important to the organization. In addition to providing pets and animal care to the

residents of Chittenden and Grand Isle counties, the Humane Society provides animal welfare education programs for all ages, like Camp Pawpaw for ages 5-12, the Animal Welfare Warrior Program for ages 13-15 and the Helen Kerr Humane Education Series for adults. Each program is planned for 2021 with

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Claire MacQueen is a reporter with the Community News Service, a collaboration with the University of Vermont’s Reporting & Documentary Storytelling program.

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Page 16 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

SPORTS

BY LAUREN READ Observer correspondent

Redhawks remain unbeaten

The Champlain Valley Union High School girls basketball team remained undefeated with a 4729 win over Rutland on Monday.

Shelby Companion led the team with 11 points, while Catherine Gilwee added seven points, eight assists and six rebounds for the Redhawks (8-0).

On Friday, the Redhawks beat South Burlington 51-13. Addison Hunter led the way with 11 points and Gilwee chipped in 10 points.

All photos are from senior day vs. St Johnsbury on March 3 in Hinesburg.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

CVU’s Madison Reagan drives the fast break.

CVU's Josie Pecor gets an easy layup.

CVU’s Madeleine Mfochive gets to the hoop.

CVU’s Jade Leavitt drives to the rack.

CVU’s Catherine Gilwee puts up a floater.

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March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 17

SPORTS BOYS BASKETBALL Rice 52, Champlain Valley 29: Rice used a big second half to pull away from Champlain Valley on Saturday.

Devin Rogers and Ethan Czarny each had eight points for the Redhawks, who fall to 5-2.

Michel Ndayishimiye led all scorers with 19 points for Rice, which moves to 5-0.

NORDIC SKIING The Champlain Valley boys Nordic ski team traveled to the Craftsbury Outdoor Center on Monday for the high school state championship and the Redhawks skied to fourth place overall.

Geo DeBrosse was the top finisher for the Redhawks, coming in fifth place in the Division I classic race. Anders Linseisen came in ninth place for CVU. In the skate race, Nigel Wormser was the top Redhawk, coming in 10th place.

Mount Mansfield took the boys D-I title, while Mount Anthony came in second and Brattleboro followed in third place.

CVU was fourth and BFA-St. Albans rounded out the top five.

CVU's Rory Anderson transitions to the high bar during the Redhawks' dual meet with So. Burlington in February.

Redhawk Henry Bijur drives hard to the rack during CVU’s game vs. Rice on Saturday in Hinesburg.

Redhawk Ethan Czarny gets off a short jumper during CVU’s game vs. Rice on Saturday in Hinesburg.

Redhawk Alex Provost starts the fast break during CVU's game vs.

Rice on Saturday in Hinesburg.

BOYS HOCKEY BFA-St. Albans 3, Champlain Valley 2: BFA-St. Albans scored twice in the third period to pull away for a win over Champlain Valley on Saturday.

Devon Fay and Owen Pierce each had a goal for the Redhawks (3-4). CVU scored to close the lead to one, but could not complete the comeback. Jack Averill stopped 23 saves in net.

GIRLS HOCKEY Woodstock 2, Champlain Valley-Mount Manfield 1 (OT): Woodstock scored in overtime to earn a win over the Champlain Valley-Mount Mansfield co-op girls hockey team on Saturday.

With the loss, the CougarHawks fall to 3-3-1.

GYMNASTICS Ruby Opton’s all-around winning performance helped the Champlain Valley gymnastics team to a win over South Burlington in a dual meet in late February.

Opton finished first in the vault, beam and floor exercise to capture the all-around win for the Redhawks. Rory Anderson was third on the beam and floor to grab third place in the all-around.

Sally Wahl got third place on the vault and Kelsey Davidson was third on the uneven bars to round out the top CVU performers.

CVU's Kelsey Davidson leaps into her vault during the Redhawks' dual meet with So. Burlington in February.

Redhawk Deng Dau grabs the offensive rebound during CVU’s game vs. Rice on Saturday in Hinesburg.

CVU's Ruby Orton performs her floor routine during the Redhawks' dual meet with So. Burlington in February.

CVU's Sally Wahl jumps high above the beam during the Redhawks' dual meet with So. Burlington in February.

OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

Page 18 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

OBITUARY ROLANDE FOURNIER HOULE

Rolande Fournier Houle of Williston, Vermont died peacefully in her home surrounded by her beloved family on February 28, 2021.

She celebrated her 101st birthday on January 7 with several close family members and an online video party in her honor.

Rolande was born January 7, 1920 in Garthby, Quebec, Canada

to Marie Louise Vachon Fournier and Emile Fournier. She moved to Johnson, VT with her family at the age of 7 and entered school without knowledge of the English language but quickly learned through classmates and cousins. This attitude of resilience and confidence would continue to be demonstrated throughout her life. Rolande attended high school at Sacred Heart Convent in Newport, VT where she learned to play piano and later served as church organist.

Rolande grew up on a dairy farm with her three siblings and expressed pride in her ability to help with farm chores alongside her brother, Gabriel, as well as tending to household chores. Rolande always described herself as, “a healthy farm girl,” strong and able to do anything.

Rolande married Gerard Fournier on May 31, 1941 and together they built a successful dairy farm in Morristown and raised five children. Rolande was proud of her role as a mother and farm wife and loved caring for her home and children. She enjoyed helping with haying, driving tractors, gathering

water in town during droughts and other farm tasks.

Rolande was a creator and had a gift to see the natural beauty in the world. She tended a large vegetable garden that would feed her family during winter as well as extensive flower gardens. She was an excellent cook and there was often pie or cobbler with berries she picked around the farm. Each year she filled basement shelves with canned fruits and pickles and froze the garden produce and claimed she only had to “shop for flour and sugar” during the winter.

She was an accomplished seamstress and there was nothing she couldn’t make with cloth, thread or yarn. She created her children’s clothing often making her own pattern and repurposing outgrown clothing into a new outfit for a younger child. Her creations over the years included a wedding dress, baptism gown for her grandchildren and countless pairs of knitted items for three generations of her family.

Rolande loved fashion and was known for matching her outfits and especially her hats. When her chil-

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dren were grown, Rolande was recruited by Phyllis Houle to work at Fashions and Fabrics in Morrisville.

She loved helping women look their best and was an asset in the sewing and drapery department.

She was a woman of strong faith and loved attending church services, teaching catechism classes, helping at church suppers and later assisting with communion.

She was known for “lighting her candle with a prayer” to keep the rain off the hayfields until the last load was in the barn — her faith never failed to amaze her family Gerard died in 1985 and Rolande continued living at the farm until she married Germain “Jim” Houle in 1989 and moved to Las Vegas, NV. She loved the excitement of living in Las Vegas and its contrast to life on a small Vermont dairy farm, though she admittedly loved both and enjoyed making new memories when family visited.

Following Jim’s death, Rolande returned to VT and settled at Whitney Hill Homestead in Williston where she remained independent and active. She drove neighbors to church and shopping,

tended a small garden, loved bingo nights, took up oil painting, and continued to sew and knit for others. Regular weekly dinners with her son, Armand, and his fiancé, Lesley, were memorable events with each taking a turn with a new recipe which they shared on social media for family and friends.

Rolande lived her life with faith and told her family, “You can’t do anything about the past or the future and worrying doesn’t make you feel better, so why bother.” She displayed a quick wit and competitive spirit and maintained a delightful sense of humor which she shared freely. She continued to be an avid reader right to the end.

Rolande’s happy spirit and long, healthy life seem attributed to being happy with what you have, forgiving and believing in the goodness of others, having no regrets, not worrying about tomorrow, having fun, along with a deep faith in God, and pouring a glass of wine with dinner.

Rolande was preceded in death by her parents Marie and Emile see HOULE page 19

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3/8/21 5:46 PM

March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 19

SENIORS

A Social Security perk for older parents

Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve been told that my two children, ages 14 and 16, may be eligible for Social Security when I file for my retirement benefits. Is this true? What can you tell me?

Viagra Daddy

Dear Viagra, It’s true. If you’re age 62 or older and are still raising young children, there’s a Social Security benefit strategy that can put some extra money in your family coffers.

Here’s how it works. When you file for Social Security retirement benefits, your minor children can get money on your work record equaling half of what you would receive at full retirement age, now gradually rising from 66 to 67.

Even if you were to take a smaller benefit by claiming earlier, your kids will still get half of your full retirement age amount.

To qualify, your daughter — whether she’s biological, adopted or a stepdaughter — must be unmarried and under age 18. Kids that are over 18 but still in high school can collect until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first. (Other rules apply to kids that are disabled.)

But that’s not all.

Because one of your children is only 14, your wife (if you’re

Houle

Savvy Senior

BY JIM MILLER married) can collect Social Security benefits on your work record too, and it doesn’t matter if she’s just 40 years old. The minimum age requirements to collect retirement benefits (62) or survivor benefits (60) does not apply when it comes to collecting benefits as the caregiver of a young child.

The spouse’s benefit, which is also worth up to half of your benefit, will stop when your daughter turns 16.

But note that there are limits to the amount of money that can be paid to a family. The Social

Security “family maximum payment” is determined by a complex formula and can range from 150 to 180 percent of your full retirement benefit amount. If the total exceeds that, each person’s benefit, except yours, is cut proportionately until it equals the maximum.

Here’s an example of how that’s figured. Let’s say, for example, that your full retirement age benefit is $2,400 per month. That would make your family maximum benefit (according to the Social Security formula at www.SSA.gov/ oact/cola/familymax.html) roughly $4,200 per month.

Subtract your $2,400 benefit from the $4,200 family maximum benefit, which leaves $1,800.

That’s the monthly amount that can be split between your two children — $900 each. If your wife wants in on it too, the individual checks are smaller, at $600 a piece, but the family amount is the same.

You should also know that minor children can collect up to half of a disabled parent’s Social Security disability benefit. And if the parent dies, they will get a survivor’s benefit, which is up to 75 percent of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit.

To learn more, see the SSA publication (No. 05-10085) “Benefits for Children” at www.SSA.

gov/pubs/EN-05-10085.pdf.

One Caveat: Social Security benefits for your kids may not be available before full retirement age if you are still working. In 2021, you will lose $1 in benefits for every $2 earned over $18,960, except in the year you reach full retirement age. In that case, the earnings limit is $50,520, with $1 in benefits withheld for every $3 earned over the limit.

If you lose your benefits, your dependents also lose theirs. You can recoup those payments later, but your kids can’t.

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.

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continued from page

19

Fournier, first husband Gerard Fournier, second husband Germain Houle, sisters Beatrice Desjardin, Pauline “Polly” Cote and brother, Gabriel Fournier. She is survived by her children, Marthe (Ray) Ayers, Marcel Fournier, Armand (Lesley) Fournier, Guy (Nancy) Fournier, Gisele (Lucius) Bridges; her beloved daughter in-law, Prudence Fournier; eight grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with Rolande laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery in Morristown.

Memorial donations may be made to hospice: UVM Health Network Home Health and Hospice, 1110 Prim Road, Colchester, VT 05446 Arrangements are in the care of Boucher and Pritchard Funeral Home, Burlington, Vermont.

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Page 20 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021 Instructor: Wicked Cool for Kids.

CHESS Age 6-12, online live with Chess Wizards. Register at www. chesswizards.jumbula.com.

The Williston Recreation and Parks Department is located at the Town Hall Annex Building at 7878 Williston Rd. For online program registration, visit www.willistonrec.org. For department information, email recreation@willistonvt.org or call 876-1160.

SUMMER CAMPS Registration is now open for summer day camp and enrichment camps. The rec department plans to offer camps this summer and will adjust as needed based on the COVID-19 guidelines that come from the state. It is best to register now to save a place in the camps for your children, and pay only the deposits. For payment, use the drop box at the back entrance to Town Hall, 7900 Williston Rd. DAY CAMP COUNSELORS Williston R.E.C Camp is hiring qualified, energetic, creative and fun-loving staff members for this summer’s day camp. Positions are seasonal, full-time from June 21-Aug. 20. R.E.C. (Recreation Experiences for Children) Camp is

an eight-week program for campers entering grades 1-8. Camp activities include gym games, outdoor activities, field trips, arts & crafts, sports and more. Apply now by emailing a cover letter and resume to recreation@willistonvt. org.

YOUTH LACROSSE Deadline to register is March 28. Separate competitive leagues, which travel, are offered to boys and girls in grades 3-4, 5-6 and 7-8. Outdoor practices will start in late April.

YOUTH TENNIS Wednesdays, April 28-June 2.

The Edge at Essex. Grades K-2, 2:30-3:30 p.m.; Grades 3-5, 3:304:30 p.m.

NINJA KIDS Four different programs offered for different age groups: 4-9, 7-10, 10-15 and 13-17. Sessions start the week of March 22. $60.

ONTA Studio.

INTERMEDIATE GAME DESIGN Grades 3-5, Thursdays, May 6-June 10, 3:30-4:45pm. $142.

BOATER SAFETY CLASS Age 12-plus. Earn the certification necessary to legally operate watercraft in Vermont. Course can be taken online at any time at www.boat-ed.com/vermont.

DANGEROUS GIRLS Age 14-plus, Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. March 17-April 7. $60.

ONTA Studio.

ADULT PROGRAMS AT ONTA STUDIO Fighter Fitness, MMA for Nerds, Street Fighter 9000, Tai Chi Form. Sessions begin the week of March 15. Register at www.willistonrec.org.

STRENGTH TRAINING

Homestead declaration deadline approaching

The Town of Williston assessor’s office reminds homeowners to file a homestead declaration (Form HS-122) by the April 15 deadline. The declaration can be filed with your Vermont income tax return or electronically any time.

For property tax purposes, a property is considered nonresidential until it is claimed as the owner’s “homestead.” A property owner must file a homestead declaration if the owner owns and occupies the property as his or her primary residence and is domiciled in Vermont. Owners of homestead property acquired as of April 1 must file by the April 15 deadline. Late filing is accepted through Oct. 15, but a late filing penalty may apply.

For those seeking a property tax adjustment, Form HI-144, the “Household Income Schedule,” must be completed to determine eligibility. Generally, household incomes of $138,500 or more do not receive an adjustment. The maximum property tax adjustment is $8,000.

Residents will not receive a property tax adjustment unless both a Form HS-122 (Homestead Declaration and Property Tax Adjustment Claim) and a Form HI144 (Household Income Schedule) are filed.

For more information, visit http://tax.vermont.gov/property-owners or contact the Vermont Department of Taxes at (802) 828-2865.

Online live with Toni Kunker.

Age 50-plus, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free to Seniors. Register at www.willistonrec.org.

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March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 21

CULINARY CORNER

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 23

A delicious, comforting meal This easy recipe is warm, comforting and perfect for the chilly end of winter. This soup takes a total of 40 minutes to prepare and serves four.

Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium onion, small diced 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1 tablespoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 bay leaf 3 cups vegetable broth 6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces 1/2 cup heavy cream 5 ounces fresh baby spinach 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping Heat large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic, onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms soften, 4-5 minutes. Add marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, oregano, pepper, bay leaf and broth. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce heat to low and simmer. Add lasagna noodles and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and remove bay leaf. Stir in heavy cream and spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes. Divide between bowls and top with dollop of ricotta and sprinkle of mozzarella.

ACROSS 1. Smartphone programs 5. Unit of fat 9. Ice and Iron, for two 13. McCoy adjective 14. Batman’s Robin 15. Roll over, as a subscription 17. Simple 18. Disoriented 19. More advanced in years 20. Don’t just sit there 21. Good type of wallet to have 22. “Well, let me see ...”

24. _____dive 25. Head-and-shoulders wrap 27. Mature acorn 29. Exclamation of disbelief 31. Boulder ___ 33. Precipice 37. Continental money 40. Grace ending 42. Orbital period 43. Opposite of “hence” 44. March, for one 46. Airport abbreviation 47. Wearing apparel 49. Globe-trotter’s need 50. “Planet of the ___” 51. Mass number 52. Prize 53. Animal house

55. Fire truck item 57. Skilled in 61. GPS is one 64. Wrong color for the books 66. Do some tailoring 68. Training ___ 69. Netflix category 71. Simon Cowell’s old show 73. Prevent 74. Break down 75. Lass 76. Fairy tale’s opening word 77. Writes 78. Stage creations 79. Looks at DOWN 1. Specialties 2. Fuzzy food 3. Elbows and shells 4. Shrewd 5. Testimonial dinner, perhaps 6. Public disturbance 7. Commercials 8. Drug (abbr.)

9. A wine taster smells it 10. Come together 11. Pass catchers in the NFL 12. Request 16. Twisted 21. Cold, sort of

23. Apple pie pro 26. Which person 28. Chief 30. It’s often cured 31. Jean fabric 32. Hill inhabitants 34. Abstruse 35. Paid attendance 36. Big times 37. A pop 38. Hardly handsome 39. Be itinerant 41. Change addresses 45. Featured 48. Genetic engineering material 50. Also 52. “Holy cow!”

54. Enjoy a meal 56. Orthodontist’s shots 58. Wood used for piano keys 59. What it costs 60. Long stories 61. Combine numbers 62. Get ready for a presentation 63. Athlete’s concern 65. Residence, slangily 66. Garrison 67. Maladies 70. Word before and after “oh” 72. “___ Hard” (1988 film) 73. Hatfield to a McCoy

— Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks of “Zen and Spice.”

Share your recipes!

Do you have a tasty recipe you would like to share?

We welcome reader contributions for publication in our weekly Culinary Corner.

Please email submissions to editor@willistonobserver.com.

Please include a photo of the finished dish if possible.

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Page 22 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Designing a wildlife friendly landscape

BY MELINDA MYERS Special to the Observer We love watching bunnies hopping across the lawn or squirrels scurrying away with a cheek full of seeds. That is, until they dine on our favorite shrub or take just one bite out of each red ripe tomato in the garden.

Finding a way to coexist is critical for wildlife struggling to survive and our enjoyment of nature and our landscapes.

As gardeners, we know that digging in the soil and tending a garden is good for our mind, body and spirit. Researchers discovered the same is true when we take time to observe wildlife. Our need for a relationship with nature is also important to our wellbeing. It helps us feel more content and function more effectively.

Implementing some design and management strategies can help us support and enjoy wildlife, care for our landscapes and improve our quality of life.

By reducing the amount of edge habitat — where one type of habitat meets another — it can allow us to support wildlife while reducing the risk of damage. Create circular or square garden beds that have more interior space and less border space. Long linear beds with more edges and less interior space allows easier access for animals to dine.

Work with neighbors and your community to create large blocks and corridors of habitat. Providing

Designed features in a garden or landscape can attract animals you want, and deter those you don’t. PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.MELINDAMYERS.COM

wildlife spaces, other than your gardens, with needed food and shelter can help you and wildlife coexist.

Protect key gardens and plants. Fencing is an option. Make sure your fence is high enough and tight to the ground, and that the

gates secure.

Repellents are a less obtrusive option. Select a product labeled for the animals and rodents you are trying to manage. For best results, apply repellents before the animals start feeding. Then reapply as recommended on the label. Look for

one that is rain and snow resistant, requiring fewer repeat applications.

Work with nature to maintain a balance in your landscape. Invite hawks, owls and fox to your backyard. Grow tall grasses and plants that provide cover for foxes. Include trees with good perches

EMPLOYMENT

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The South Burlington School District is seeking qualified candidates for an Executive Director of Learning. Primary responsibilities are the district’s curriculum, assessment, instructional practice, and staff professional learning.

Kwiniaska Golf Club in Shelburne, Vermont is looking to fill the open position of Head Chef/Pub Manager. This is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, professional individual with a strong food background and a friendly, outgoing personality. The candidate will be joining a team of dedicated professionals who enjoy a positive work environment with respect and support. Friendly, helpful and positive customer service is of the upmost importance.

This individual will be responsible for cooking food, inventory levels, compliance with food and health laws and regulations, overseeing many diverse aspects to the pub.

Job Summary: Responsible for overseeing of all elements of the Club’s Food and Beverage department while keeping a positive attitude with all staff, vendors, members and guests and ensuring tasks are completed to the highest standards.

Qualifications: Candidates will have prior cooking experience in a pub or restaurant. S/he will be able to demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills. This individual will be dependable, reliable, motivated, trustworthy and friendly. Flexible hours are needed to meet the needs of the golf course.

Job Type: Seasonal Full-Time (approximately May 1st – November 15th) Compensation: Based on experience and performance Apply online at: kwiniaska.com/forms/view_form/application_for_employment and send resume to Charli at ckail@kwiniaska.com

The position has direct supervision of the Office of Learning Administrative Assistant & Grant Coordinator, the Director of Technology, technology integrationists, English Language Learner teachers, the District Math Coordinator, instructional coaches, and after-school program.The Executive Director of Learning serves as a senior member of the educational advisory team for the superintendent.

Qualified candidates will hold a Vermont Educator’s license with a Director of Curriculum endorsement. A superintendent’s license or eligibility for licensure is desirable. A minimum of a master’s degree is required, with evidence of additional graduate-level coursework preferred.Three or more years in a district leadership role is required with proven analytical skills for evaluating teaching strategies and instructional materials, effective communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills are essential. Mastery of technology skills to advance the learning capabilities of students and staff is required.A thorough understanding of universal design for student learning and commitment to diversity and inclusion is required.

Interested candidates may submit their letter of interest, resume, and credentials via www.SchoolSpring.com, Job ID# 3450546, by March 24, 2021.

or install perch poles to attract and support raptors.

And like any landscape endeavor, start with a plan. Make a sketch of your existing landscape.

Identify existing plants and wildlife-friendly habitats. Make note of both the natural habitats and any supplemental food, water and shelter you provide. Review and note various features in your landscape throughout the year.

Now decide what you want to accomplish in your landscape.

What wildlife do you want to attract and have the space to support?

Perhaps you want to attract more songbirds to your gardens or animals, like toads, that help manage pests in the garden.

Make sure your landscape provides the habitat features needed to attract and sustain these welcome residents. You will find lots of helpful resources on the National Wildlife Federation, Audubon Society, Natural Resources Conservation Services, Department of Natural Resources and university extension websites.

Be patient and wait for a year to evaluate the results of your efforts. Then begin making any needed changes to meet your goals.

Developing a landscape for you to enjoy and one that supports wildlife takes time. As a gardener, this is not only part of the process, but an exciting adventure.

Melinda Myers is a contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. For more, visit her website at www.MelindaMyers.com.

3.25 x 2 AD for Williston Observer 52 Consecutive Weeks $18.00/week $936

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICE

March 11, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 23

SERVICE DIRECTORY BUILDING SERVICES

LOCAL MEATS

VT2A Shared Use Path Study – Beaudry Lane to VSECU The Town of Williston and the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC), with assistance from Stantec, are looking at ways to complete the bicycle and pedestrian connection along VT2A in Williston. This study is focused on the section between Beaudry Lane and VSECU. We want to hear from you -- please join us for a public Alternatives Presentation Meeting via Teams on Tuesday, March 23 at 6 pm. At this meeting we will be presenting concepts for completing this connection. If you are unable to attend the meeting but wish to comment please send comments to cforde@ccrpcvt.org For more information and the meeting link please go to http://bit.ly/VT2A-Connector-Path.

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To place a classified or service directory ad, email marianne@ willistonobserver.com

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Page 24 • Williston Observer • March 11, 2021

Plunge continued from page

1

Plunge team, worked with Williston Lead Principal Greg Marino on an alternate plan.

“Special Olympics Vermont is grateful for your commitment, enthusiasm and creativity in transforming the current circumstances into a Remote Plunge event,” the organization, which creates athletic experiences for people with intellectual disabilities, said in a statement earlier this winter. “Have fun with it, but above all, be safe.”

Booth thanked Cochran’s Ski Area and the fire departments in Williston and Hinesburg for helping organizers pull off the alternate event.

“This year was tough without being able to just go to the waterfront and have kids jump in the water,” Booth said.

“There were a ton of logistics … Thank you to all who helped organize, participate and support this great event.”

The event raised about $20,000 for Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Vermont plans to host a limited in-person Penguin Plunge at the Burlington waterfront on March 27.

Only individuals who have raised $1,500 or more by March 19 will be invited.

Waves of five people at a time will plunge into the water every 10-15 minutes in a physically distanced event.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A wave of CVU students run into the snow and spray during the Penguin Run on Saturday in the Williston Central School parking lot; Williston Central School faculty and students prepare to run; CVU students dressed for summer in sub-freezing temperatures; CVU football coach Rahn Fleming poses with an unidentified participant; A snowmaking machine from Cochran’s Ski Area adds to the fun.

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