Williston Observer 3/18/2021

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Limoge resignation opens seat on selectboard

Joy Limoge

The Williston Selectboard is looking for a new member after Joy Limoge resigned in February with about a year remaining in her term.

Limoge said her decision to resign was “an incredibly difficult decision for me to make.”

“I loved serving on the board and being a part of town governance,” she said. “My personal and professional workload precludes me from giving the selectboard the time it deserves.

School schedules step toward normalcy

BY JASON STARR Observer staff

Facing strong pressure from parents and with teacher vaccinations ramping up, school administrators have announced that seventh- and eighth-graders will return to a more regular in-school schedule at Williston Central School starting April 5.

Middle school students have been attending school just two days a week and learning from home three days a week in a hybrid schedule created last fall in the midst of the pandemic. After the new year, several parents of seventh- and eighth-graders began pressuring Champlain Valley School District administrators and school board members to figure out ways to increase in-person school days for their children.

“Teachers and kids should be back in the classroom … it is necessary for the emotional well-being of our children,” Bob White,

I want to thank the residents of Williston for the opportunity to serve. It has truly been an honor and a pleasure.”

Limoge was halfway through a two-year term, most recently re-elected at Town Meeting Day in 2020. She has been a board member since 2016.

On Tuesday, the remaining four board members agreed to advertise the opening with an application deadline of April 2.

If there is an abundance of appli-

cants, the board plans to convene a subcommittee to invite finalists in for interviews at one of its two April meetings. Board members hope to have the seat filled by early May. Board chair Terry Macaig said he could recall only one other time the board has filled a seat by appointment in the middle of a term during his 20-year tenure.

Selectboard seats are typically filled by voters at Town Meeting Day.

The appointment to replace Limoge will run through next March, when the seat will be up for election again.

Interested applicants can contact Town Manager Erik Wells at 876-1168 or by email at ewells@willistonvt.gov. Wells offered to consult with potential candidates to “make sure people understand the role of the board and what the time commitment is.”

— Jason Starr

’Hawks fly into postseason

a parent from Williston, wrote in a March 3 letter to the school board.

Williston Parent Jill Quong said the hybrid schedule has violated the district’s responsibility to guarantee equal access to education to all students.

“There is nothing more important or more paramount to the board’s obligations and responsibilities than to ensure that our students are being properly educated,” she wrote in a March 3 letter to the board. “It appears that the board has yielded complete authority to principals and superintendent to make these critical decisions without any apparent oversight.”

The school district originally put the reduced schedule in place to adhere to state and federal public health guidelines stating that students maintain 6 feet of physical distance in the building. While that guidance has not changed, Williston principals Jackie Parks and Greg Marino have juggled see SCHEDULES page 2

Seventh- and eighth-graders will be returning to Williston Central School on a nearly full-time basis starting April 5. OBSERVER PHOTO BY EVA BENWAY

Hannah Schmid of the CVU-MMU co-op girls hockey team rips a wrist shot on goal against Rice last week at Cairns Arena in South Burlington. Despite the 3-2 loss, the Cougarhawks advanced to the playoffs, where they were set to face South Burlington in the first round. Meanwhile, the CVU boys hockey team wrapped up the regular season with a win over Colchester to snap a three-game losing streak and end the season with a 4-4 record. The team entered the playoffs as the No. 6 seed and was set to face Rice in round one. For more CVU sports, see Page 16.

OBSERVER PHOTO BY AL FREY

Page 2 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

Village schoolhouse set for new round of renovations

Williston’s Historical and Architectural Advisory Committee is seeking grants to fund the maintenance and repair of the Stovepipe Corner Schoolhouse.

The schoolhouse is located next to the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library in Williston Village.

According to the project summary, written by Department of Public Works Director Bruce The Stovepipe Corner Schoolhouse on Wednesday Hoar, work is needed on both the morning. OBSERVER PHOTO BY EVA BENWAY interior and exterior of the building, including new siding and upgrades to the painting, maintenance of the landscape and adjacent outhouse. The Department of Pub- some other small repairs. Though the integrity lic Works is collaborating with the Williston of the building is still good, according to Hoar, Historical Society to seek grants to fund the long-term maintenance and repairs are needed project, which is estimated to cost $72,800. to preserve this historic schoolhouse.

The Stovepipe Corner Schoolhouse was On July 4 in 2019, the historical society originally built north of Mountain View Road. opened the schoolhouse to visitors, setting it It served as one of Williston’s one-room up with artifacts and pictorial displays to show schoolhouses from 1850 to the 1920s when visitors how the schoolhouse would have Williston made the switch from one-room functioned in its day. schoolhouses to a graded school system.

“We are hoping to have further events In 1988, funds were raised by the Willis- at the schoolhouse and will continue restoton Historical Society to restore and relocate ration,” Historical Society president Brenda the schoolhouse to the village. Since the resto- Perkins said. ration in the 1980s, minor projects have been done on the schoolhouse, including exterior — Eva Benway

Schedules continued from page

1

class schedules and repurposed space to Educators are expecting significant make room for the influx of seventh- and social and academic fallout from this year eighth-graders. of remote learning. As mandated by the “Our principals and teachers deserve Vermont Agency of Education, the school a lot of credit. They knew how important district has convened a “recovery team” it was and they are making it happen,” Su- led by Director of Learning and Innovaperintendent Elaine Pinckney said. “There tion Jeff Evans and Director of Student are tradeoffs. If it were easy, we would have Services Meagan Roy. done it a long time ago.”

The team plans to complete an indiParks and Marino were not avail- vidualized assessment of each student this able for comment. Pinckney said doubling spring in the areas of emotional and menthe in-classroom time for seventh- and tal health, truancy and engagement and eighth-graders will academic achievement. impact the schedulParents can expect ing of essential arts a customized report and world language from the district by the classes throughout the end of the school year school. Seventh- and about their students. eighth-graders will “It’s sort of a return to school on ‘here’s where your kid Mondays, Tuesdays, is related to the stan— Bob White Thursdays and Fridays. dards,’” Roy said.

Williston parent Wednesdays will reThe recovery team main a remote learning will compile the data to day. determine how many students need addiTeachers became eligible for tional support and how that support will be COVID-19 vaccinations last week, and as designed and delivered. of Tuesday, about 7,000 school and child “Some of the kids who will need supcare staff statewide had been vaccinated, port are not traditionally on (individualaccording to Health and Human Services ized education) plans,” Roy said.

Secretary Mike Smith. A teacher vacciPart of the recovery plan is to develop nation clinic run by the Vermont Nation- a four-week summer school with options al Guard was held Tuesday at CVU High tailored to deficiencies stemming from reSchool. The district expects that teachers mote learning. will be fully vaccinated by the end of April.

School board member Erin Brady, “The news of vaccine availability for who represents Williston in the Vermont all our faculty and staff in the near future House of Representatives, said the district and the prospect of having all adult Ver- can expect about $5 million in new federal monters at least in line for a vaccine by coronavirus relief funds to support the reMay floods us with hope, joyful anticipa- covery team work. The district has already tion and optimism,” Pinckney wrote in a received about $5 million in recovery letter to the school community last week. funds from last year.

‘It is necessary for the emotional well-being of our children.’

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Scott expects return to normal by July 4

BY ERIN PETENKO VTDigger Based on increasing COVID-19 vaccine supply, Gov. Phil Scott estimates that life in Vermont could return to normal by the Fourth of July, he said Tuesday at his twice-weekly press conference.

Scott learned in a national call with the White House on Tuesday that vaccine makers are ramping up their production, and Vermont should get a major boost in its federal allocation by the end of the month.

Scott said he believes the additional vaccine will allow Vermont to speed up its goals for vaccinating people in particular age bands. To help Vermonters estimate when they’ll become eligible for vaccination, the state plans to lay out its schedule on Friday.

President Joe Biden announced last week that he will require all states to expand eligibility to the general adult population by May 1, with a return to some level of normalcy by the Fourth of July. Scott said Vermont could meet or even surpass that timeline.

“And that’s what we believe we can deliver on, and possibly exceed,” Scott said.

“As you’ll see, if supply comes in as prom-

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ised, we hope anyone who wants a vaccine will have the opportunity to be fully vaccinated by the summer, which will allow us to get back to normal.”

Vermont’s vaccine supply won’t increase much in the immediate future. The state expects to receive a total of about 800 more doses next week than this week from all three manufacturers, Scott said. That includes 250 that go directly to the federal pharmacy program to use at local pharmacy retailers.

But Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson plan to increase their manufacturing speed in the coming weeks. Pfizer and Moderna expect to have a combined national allocation of 15 million to 17 million per week, and Johnson & Johnson plans to distribute about 4 million to 6 million per week.

That would lead to an increase of 4,000 to 5,000 doses for Vermont’s vaccine program, Scott said.

At the moment, Vermont’s eligibility includes those 65 and over, high-risk Vermonters of any age, school and child care staff, and correctional staff. People who were eligible in previous categories, such as those 75 and older or health care workers, continue to be eligible for the vaccine.

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March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 3

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Page 4 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

WILLISTON: BUSINESS HUB OF VERMONT

Hey June prints a plan to build community

BY JOHN ELY Special to the Observer A large, antique letterpress greets visitors to Hey June, a Richmond stationery store and print studio that opened on Bridge Street last November. An original brick wall runs along the length of the store, and shelves are lined with handmade notebooks and cards.

Some are the work of owner Maria Brown. The shop’s all about “putting ink to paper and getting

back to basics,” said Brown. On a recent afternoon, she used the antique letterpress to turn out a stack of neatly folded greeting cards embossed with an image of the famous mittens Sen. Bernie Sanders wore at the Presidential inauguration.

They’re expertly done. But for over 20 years, Brown worked in marketing, starting in the world of New York City magazine publishing. Stationery, letterpress and office supplies were a hobby. After

moving to Richmond 10 years ago, Brown began dreaming of a shop that could bring the community together through letter writing workshops and other creative avenues.

That’s what Brown planned when she rented the space in December, 2019. The shop was going to be a “haven for creativity,” she said, a place where people could learn how to do letterpress, try journaling or have book readings and art shows. The pandemic made that impossible. Brown delayed the

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opening, and alongside her husband, Logan Brown, a machinist and craftsman, used the spring and summer to complete a full renovation of the shop.

While workshops are off the table for now, Brown said she’s happy for the opportunity to meet people in the community while selling and creating stationery she loves. “[A] wonderful opportunity exists to foster connections with the people that come in,” Brown said. “Whether it’s chatting with someone looking for a card for their mom who has cancer… supporting a young girl looking for the perfect notebook to use for her burgeoning detective agency; or helping people find the perfect puzzle to get them through quarantine.”

After the pandemic, though, Brown anticipates hands-on opportunities once again.

“We look forward to being able to see peoples’ faces and to

Using an image of Bernie Sanders’ mittens — a popular meme — Maria Brown prints notecards on her antique letterpress.

PHOTOS BY JEN ROSE SMITH

have those workshops and events in the future,” she said. “For now, we couldn’t be happier with the warm welcome we’ve received since opening.”

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

March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 5

Hub HAPPENINGS THE WHO, THE WHAT & THE WHEN

Print businesses merge Michael Swaidner has transferred his Williston printing business, Pop Color, to Paw Print & Mail in South Burlington upon his retirement.

“I’m pleased to pass Pop Color on to a caring, professional organization, Paw Print & Mail,” he said. “I know my customers will be served with the same dedication to quality and commitment to the printing craft using the most modern technology available for excellent results.”

Longtime Pop Color employee Francine Peet is joining Paw Print & Mail to ensure a smooth transition.

Locally produced PSA awarded

gram’s forgivable loans work and the new qualification formula for sole proprietors, independent contractors and the self-employed.

The application deadline is March 31. Technical assistance is available from the SBA. To register for the webinar or for more information, email susan.mazza@sba. gov or visit www.sba.gov.vt.

Unemployment rate drops to 3.2 percent The Vermont unemployment rate for January was 3.2 percent, a slight decrease from December’s revised estimate of 3.5 percent, the Vermont Department of Labor reported Monday.

Unemployment peaked last year at 14.8 percent in April. Overall the calendar year unemployment rate was 5.6 percent, which matched the 2011 level coming out of the 2008 recession. Vermont employers have about 30,000 fewer filled positions on payroll, according to Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington.

“Based on early news about the vaccine, the department is optimistic that the state will start to experience significant economic recovery in 2021,” Harrington said.

VBSR welcomes three new board members The Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility recently announced three new members of the organization’s board of directors: Kehvon Didehbani, Beth Rusnock and Suzanne McDowell.

Didehbani is the managing director of Solidarity of Unbridled Labour, a brand strategy and design studio based in Burlington. McDowell is vice president of corporate responsibility and sustainability for King Arthur Baking Company in Norwich. Rusnock is

Green Mountain Video of Williston was awarded first place in the Vermont Association of Broadcasters Production of the Year awards for Outstanding Radio Public Service Announcement for its public service campaign “CovidSupportVT-I Am So Stressed.”

Williston residents Fran Stoddard and Jim Heltz produced the PSA. COVID Support VT (www. covidsupportvt.org) helps people cope with the pandemic through education, emotional support and connections to community services that promote resilience, empowerment and recovery.

Paycheck protection grants offered for sole proprietors Vermont personal care providers — such as cosmetologists, body-piercers and tattoo artists — are invited join the SBA Vermont District Office for a webinar at 9 a.m. Friday, March 19 to learn how the Paycheck Protection Pro-

Suzanne McDowell

the head of community relations for National Life Group in Montpelier and president of the National Life Group Foundation.

“We are honored to have Kehvon, Beth and Suzanne join VBSR’s board,” said VBSR Executive Director Roxanne Vought.

“They each bring a unique perspective to the work of building a just, thriving and transformative economy, and add to the rich tapestry of industries, geographies, business types and identities that make for a strong and effective board of directors.”

hard-working families and sugar-makers who make us proud.”

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Maple Open House Weekend and other annual traditional maple activities are not happening as usual, but you can visit the Vermont Sugar Makers Association (www.vermontmaple. org) to find a maple producer near you.

“Vermont is the leading maple syrup producer in the nation, with nearly half of the country’s maple production coming from our state’s family farms,” Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts said. “In 2020, nearly 2 million gallons were produced with $54 million in sales, making maple the second largest

O

Gov. Phil Scott marked the opening of maple sugaring season with a ceremonial “first tap” at Templeton Farm in East Montpelier last Thursday. The farm has operated a maple syrup business since 1810, with eight generations of the Chapell family running a variety of agricultural businesses on the farm.

“Our maple industry leads the nation, supports our economy and strengthens the Vermont brand,” Scott said. “We wouldn’t have the best maple in the world if it wasn’t for families like the Chapells here at Templeton Farm, and the many

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Page 6 • Williston Observer • March 18, 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

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BY BRAM KLEPPNER

Climate change threatens to destroy everything you care about.

It is one of the biggest threats to prosperity and security we have ever faced. If we lose the fight against climate change, every other cause becomes lost.

The good news is that addressing climate change will strengthen Vermont’s economy, improve Vermonters’ health and help stabilize the planet’s climate.

The science can’t be any clearer. The more carbon we put into the atmosphere, the more cost we will all bear in terms of the damage to crops, homes and infrastructure from violent weather; the more we will all suffer from disease spread by invasive insects and polluted air; the shorter and less reliable our ski season and sugaring season will become; and the more our foliage will fade.

We all have a role to play in reducing our carbon output as quickly as possible. The company I lead, Danforth Pewter, has committed to zero emissions. We’ve built a solar farm, and installed our first heat pump, and are working on every other facet of our operations that uses fossil fuels. But while we are doing our own small part, no com-

pany or group working alone can impact emissions on the scale necessary to stave off this crisis. That’s why we look for every opportunity to partner with other businesses, community groups and local and state governments to advocate for and push forward change across whole sectors of our economy: transportation, heating and cooling, energy production, manufacturing, construction and agriculture.

Every level of government — from neighborhood councils and city governments to state governments and multi-state coalitions to national governments and multi-country organizations — must also move as quickly as they can on two fronts.

First, by moving their own substantial buildings and transportation fleets to zero emissions as quickly as possible; and second, by creating the programs that will move their jurisdictions to zero emissions as quickly as possible.

Our own Vermont state government is no exception. In fact, Vermont lags behind other states in our region and has failed to meet the emission goals the Legislature has put in place for our state. Fossil-fueled transportation accounts for almost half (44.5 percent) of our climate change emissions in Vermont, and we are the only state in the region to have failed to meet the goal of reducing our emissions below 1990 levels. We can do better. We must.

The most impactful thing that Vermont can do right now to address climate change and take advantage of the opportunities it presents is to join the Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI). TCI is

a multi-state initiative to reduce transportation emissions by 30 percent by 2032. It includes allocating at least 35 percent of program proceeds to ensure that overburdened and underserved communities benefit equitably from clean transportation projects and programs. In other words, it presents an opportunity for us to make Vermont more affordable for our most vulnerable citizens. In fact, TCI would bring $20-$60 million into Vermont every year, allowing us to invest in modernized, cleaner and more affordable transportation solutions.

Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Washington D.C., have already announced their commitment to join TCI. Vermont, along with six other East Coast states, formally committed to continuing with negotiations toward joining TCI. It is time for Vermont’s Climate Council and administration to make Vermont a full-fledged member of the TCI. Vermont and the other members can all help each other engineer a transition to a clean transportation system that makes sure all Vermonters participate in the financial, environmental and health benefits of that transition. In the choices we make today, we are choosing among many possible futures. Let’s choose the best one.

Bram Kleppner is the CEO of Danforth Pewter, headquartered in Middlebury. He formerly served on the Vermont Tax Structure Commission and the Governor’s Business Advisor Council on Health Care Financing.

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March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I’d like to share my deep appreciation and gratitude for the work you’ve done and continue to do during this extraordinary time. My son just joined the Williston Central School community this year as a sixth-grader and he has absolutely adored his experience in school. His transition from a smaller school to WCS was supported with extreme care by his Voyager team of teachers.

As a new parent to the Champlain Valley School District, I have also attempted to familiarize myself with the culture, mission, vision and budget of our district. Part of my hope in building this bridge is to shine a big, beautiful light on all of our teachers and support staff. It’s been almost a year since they were handed a foreign object with no instruction manual. They’ve needed to adjust, readjust, stretch and grow every step of the way and, as we all know, this can be an exhaustive process to endure.

One of my deeply rooted hopes moving forward is that we don’t try to fit a square peg into a round hole next fall. Not one single human on this planet is the same person they were a year ago. We have all experienced growth, pain, resilience, hurt, fear and many more emotions more.

How, as a district, can we hold space for the mental health and emotional well-being of us all? Can we make room for healing and wellness within our school communities for both students and teachers?

I was grateful to see a large spotlight on tending to our students now and moving forward, and yet, I was disheartened to not see a place for our teachers wellness and healing to be tended to.

While the pandemic has been many things to all of us, it has also shed light on some opportunities for growth. Can we make sure our teachers have a place and space to heal as well? How amazing would it feel to enter into the fall with a collective sense of purpose and well-being?

Christine Everitt Williston

Racial injustice continues In response to David Martel’s objection to flying the Black Lives Matter flag at our town hall (“Overstepping bounds for BLM” March 11), I would point out that the injustices heaped upon people of color did not just “happen 155 years ago.” They continue to this day, and flying the BLM flag is a reminder of that fact. How can anyone possibly ignore the recent killings of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and others and state that this isn’t happening today?

Vermont may not be as culpable as other states when it comes to being stopped while driving or walking for no reason other than the color of one’s skin, but prejudice exists here, too.

If children are not taught that all people are equal under the law and the Constitution and all have the same rights and responsibilities, then the prejudices of adults will take hold in young minds, and no progress will be made toward erasing the hatred and discrimination that has plagued this country since slaves were brought here.

We owe it to people of color to acknowledge our complicity in the wrongs done to them and strive to do better.

Julie Bonanno Williston

Addressing the echoes of slavery

My vision for Taft Corners

I was saddened to read David Martel’s letter in last week’s Observer (“Overstepping bounds for BLM”). Raising the Black Lives Matter flag outside Town Hall is debatable. However, this letter did not serve to thoughtfully further that debate. Its fundamental arguments were not about the flag at all, but rather about the idea of racial justice itself.

American chattel slavery, as Mr. Martel points out, ended 155 years ago. He argues that feeling “guilt” or “empathy” over slavery is personal, and should thus be dealt with personally rather than publicly. However, the purpose of discussing slavery is not to soothe individual black feelings or white guilt. We still discuss slavery because its echo is still audible today. From disproportionate incarceration rates, to segregation in our cities, to the enormous gap between black and white wealth in this country, anti-blackness and racism have continued to shape the structures of American life.

Discussions about race and racism can often inspire discomfort and defensiveness. Disagreeing with the BLM flag outside Town Hall is fine. However, it is vital that we all make an effort to push past that initial discomfort and try to understand what the rallying cry “black lives matter” is actually saying — not that all lives don’t matter, but that, for centuries, black lives haven’t.

Shea Savage Williston

We can all participate as Taft Corners enters its next phase of growth. I have seen this area change from vast fields and scattered businesses to a vibrant commercial, retail and residential community. But it can be even better.

I envision an area that has a definite Vermont feel to it, encompassing brick and clapboard buildings connected by nice walkways.

I see small, mini or micro parks located on street corners, where groupings of trees and shrubs invite you to pause and relax on the provided benches while watching birds, butterflies, people and life pass by. Maybe a conversation will be started or pleasant greetings shared, where life can slow down a bit and Vermont’s beauty can be felt. These scattered mini parks can all add beauty and atmosphere while also functioning as areas where underground stormwater control fields add environmental benefits to our town.

There will be a substantial residential component of people adding value to our great town while supporting a vibrant network of stores, craft vendors, restaurants, beverage establishments and snack bars.

What is your vision of Taft Corners? I will be attending the virtual launch event for planning the future of Taft Corners on March 25. I hope you do also. For information, go to www.mytaftcorners. com.

John Marcotte Williston Historic and Architectural Advisory Committee

The real meaning of BLM I would like to respond to the writer who opposes the Black Lives Matter flag at town hall (“Overstepping bounds for BLM” March 11). Yes of course all lives matter, but all lives are not ending from a policeman’s foot on their neck. That tragic event did not happen 155 years ago, but last

Start with understanding I’d like to offer a different perspective to the issue of the Black Lives Matter flag being flown at Williston Town Hall than the one stated in the letter titled “Overstepping bounds for BLM” in last week’s Observer.

I believe our elected town officials should be applauded for voicing the concern of their constituents that we can no longer ignore the brutality and unjust policies that oppress the black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) community. Recognition of a demand for action should in no way be viewed as a “reward.” We need to understand the root cause behind unrest before being so quick to condemn a group weary of the targeted brutality they experience.

I do agree with the author of

summer.

The BLM movement was started to remind us of unnecessary police violence against black people nationwide. The flag is a sign of our commitment to understanding that police violence against people of color should stop and that people of all colors have a right to live in peace without fear for their life being lost for no valid reason.

Donna Lee Williston the letter that education is the key, but I feel this onus should not be placed squarely on the next generation. As parents, we have an obligation to act as role models to our children, to challenge them to understand both sides of any story so that they can make their own educated decisions. I know our educators are working hard to ensure an understanding of equality for all, and believe this can be accomplished so much easier if we follow through with this message in our homes and by our actions.

I truly believe that this is a decisive moment in history, with the BLM movement providing a catalyst for not just America but for the world. Whether we choose to question history and look with introspection on equity in America or not, let’s make sure decisions come from a basis of understanding.

Alan Brown Williston

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Send your letters to editor@willistonobserver.com

11963183

An open letter to the Champlain Valley School Board

Page 8 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

Easter sunrise service planned at Lake Iroquois

Other Holy Week services to be streamed online Join the Williston Federated Church for a “drive-in” Easter “sonrise” (sunrise) service at Lake Iroquois starting at 6:30 a.m. on April 4.

Participants will gather socially-distanced in their respective vehicles at 24 Beebe Lane.

The Williston Federated Church youth will lead the service, which will be transmitted to each car radio. Coffee and muffins will be safely served to those who would like them.

Other Holy Week opportunities will be streamed live at www. facebook.com/willistonfederatedchurch, including 9:30 a.m. March 28, Palm Sunday; 7 p.m. April 1 Maundy (a joint worship service with Richmond Congregational Church, United Church of Christ); 7 p.m. April 2, Good Friday services with an ecumenical array of churches in the Burlington area; 9:30 a.m., Easter Sunday with an ecumenical array of churches in the Burlington area.

Visit www.steeple.org for more information.

A call to artists from the Birds of Vermont Museum

The Birds of Vermont Museum in Huntington is seeking artwork for its 2021 art show “Expanding Voices: Perspectives on Birding.” The museum seeks art that asks or answers the questions: What perspectives exist for birds, birders, birding and conservation. What possibilities do these offer?

Art in any media, by new or returning artists of any age, may be submitted. Visual, written and multi-media works will be considered. The art show runs from June 1 to Oct. 31 at

both indoor and unprotected outdoor space at the museum.

In addition to walls, there are shelves available for smaller three-dimensional pieces, room outdoors for weather-impervious works and some ceiling area. Artists may visit the museum at 900 Sherman Hollow Rd., in Huntington to explore the potential.

Send submissions to museum@birdsofvermont.org. Entries are due by April 5. Call (802) 434-2167 for more information.

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Girls on the Run seeks coaches

Coaching registration for Girls on the Run Vermont is open for the 2021 season. Coaches are needed statewide for this physical activity-based, positive youth development program that works with girls in grades 3-8.

The eight-week program incorporates running to teach critical life skills, encourage personal development and foster team building and community service.

Volunteer coaches use a curriculum to engage teams of girls in fun, interactive lessons. Lesson content covers topics such as empathy, friendship, identifying and managing emotions and more. Teams meet twice a week for 90 minutes and the program culminates with all teams participating in a celebratory 5K run/walk event.

Girls on the Run Vermont, headquartered in Williston, has implemented safety and program modifications to ensure the well-being of coaches and girls this season due to COVID-19. The season starts the week of April 5.

Coaches do not need to be runners, but are required to be a minimum of 18 years old to serve as an assistant or 21 years old to serve as a head coach. All volunteer coaches must complete a background check and attend a training session.

Visit www.gotrvt.org/coach for more information.

Send your story ideas and photos to editor@ willistonobserver.com

March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 9

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.

EACH division winner will receive a gift certificate from the Williston Coffee Shop in the amount of $100!

The winners will also have their artwork published in the April 1, 2021 issue of the Williston Observer.

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Page 10 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

LIBRARY The Dorothy Alling Memorial Library is open for contact-free porch pickup of materials from Monday-Friday 10 a.m.6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. To place holds, request a bundle of materials or for help deciding what to read next, visit www.damlvt.org or call 878-4918. The website has options for downloading e-books, audio books, music and video, as well as up-to-date information on all programming offerings.

Patrons now have access to over 3,000 e-magazines through the library’s LUV Overdrive collection, including National Geographic, The New Yorker, The Economist and many more. All you need is your library card. Visit www.damlvt.org to get started. If you need help accessing LUV Overdrive or the Libby app, just contact the library.

YOUTH PROGRAMS • Meditation for kids Wednesdays, March 24 and 31, 1:15-1:45 p.m. Join us via Zoom. Ages 8-14. Parents are welcome to take part. Email programs@damlvt.org to register.

• Kids in the Kitchen Wednesdays, March 24 and 31, 3-3:30 p.m. Join dietician Joanne Heidkamp for a hands-on cooking series. Grades K-5 with an adult. Classes are standalone

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Maybe you are even thinking about upgrading your looks for the coming warm season? Neutral or colorful we can help you find the perfect eyeglass frame!

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programs, so sign up for one or both. Register at www.damlvt. org to receive a Zoom link.

• Preschool to-go craft: garden pots Available starting Monday, April 5. Pick up a preschool craft kit in the vestibule, while supplies last. Kit includes papier-mâché pot, decorative foam pieces, seeds and soil.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS Online programs are held via Zoom. Email programs@damlvt. org or call 878-4918 for an invitation, unless otherwise specified.

• To-go craft kits Our winter challenge to create 1,000 paper cranes is nearly done. Pick up a kit from the library vestibule through the end of March. We are still accepting completed cranes for inclusion in the community art installation next month. Coming in April: spring flower pots.

• Guided meditation Fridays, March 19 and 26, 12:30-1 p.m. Maryellen Crangle leads a short meditation online.

• Brown Bag Book Discussion Tuesday, March 23, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Join us for a discussion of Percy Walker’s “The Moviegoer.” Copies available at the library. eAudiobook available in Hoopla.

• Current events Wednesday, March 24, 10-11:30 a.m. Our popular discussion group continues during these interesting times. Connect with others for informal conversation about newsworthy topics.

• New Perspectives book discussion Tuesday, April 6, 12-1 p.m.

Join us to discuss chapters 7-12

of “The Happiness Project”

by Gretchen Rubin. Copies available at the library. eBook and eAudiobook available in Hoopla.

• Cooking Matters Wednesday, April 14, 12-1 p.m.

Join dietician Joanne Heidkamp for the second part of “Eating for the Long Haul: Practical Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Daily Eating Routine.” Register at www.damlvt.org.

• Film discussion Thursday, April 29, 2 p.m.

Watch on your own at home then join us for an online discussion of “A Man Called Ove” based on Richard Backman’s popular book. Access the film through the library’s Hoopla database or contact the library to request a DVD copy. Register at www.damlvt.org.

NEW AT THE LIBRARY • Adult nonfiction “Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times”

by Katherine May. An intimate look at the ways we can care for and repair ourselves when life knocks us down.

The author was faced with multiple challenges when her husband fell ill, her son stopped attending school and her own medical issues led her to leave a demanding job. Wintering explores how she not only endured this painful time, but also embraced the singular opportunities it offered. A moving personal narrative shot through with lessons from literature, mythology and the natural world, May’s story offers instruction on the transformative power of rest and retreat.

Visit www.willistonobserver.com

March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 11

SENIORS

Technology that can help you locate things you misplace

Savvy Senior

BY JIM MILLER Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend any good devices that help seniors with tracking down misplaced items? My wife misplaces everything including her car keys, eyeglasses, cell phone, purse and more.

Always Searching Dear Always, There’s actually a wide variety of tracking devices that can help you and your wife find items that are commonly misplaced.

Here are some top options to consider, depending on how tech-savvy you are.

Bluetooth Trackers If you or your wife uses a smartphone or tablet, you can easily track down lost or misplaced items like keys, a purse, wallet, remote control, smartphone, tablet or even a laptop with a Bluetooth tracker. While there are several different types of tracker products on the market today, the best is Tile (www.TheTileApp.com), which pairs with Apple and Android

apps to help you locate missing items.

All you do is attach a small battery-powered Tile to the items you want to keep track of with an adhesive sticker, a key ring or you can just slip it inside the item.

Then, when a tagged item goes missing, you simply access the app on your smartphone or tablet to see how far away you are from the item or last known location on the map. If you’re within 150 to 200 feet, you can make the Tile ring so you can follow the sound to easily find it.

Or, if your wife loses her phone, the Tile works in reverse, allowing her to double press the button on her Tile to make her phone ring (even if it’s on silent) as long as it’s nearby.

Tile also works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or Siri to find misplaced items. All you have to do is ask.

To fit your tracking needs, Tile offers a variety of different sized trackers, including the Tile Mate ($25) that’s ideal for keeping track of keys, purses or backpacks; Tile Slim ($25), which is the size of a credit card that can be put into a wallet or attached to a laptop; Tile Sticker ($40 for a 2-pack), the smallest finder that can attach to things like remotes, bikes and more; and Tile Pro ($35), which is the most durable tracker that has a 400-foot range and extra loud ringer.

Orbit app to make them ring so she can find them quickly. Or, if she’s out of Bluetooth range, she can check the last known location that will be shown on the map.

Radio Frequency Finders If you or your wife don’t have a smartphone or tablet, there are also radio frequency devices like the Esky Key Finders (www.

EskyNow.com), sold through www.Amazon. com, that can help you find misplaced items.

These devices come with an item locator remote and four to six tags with prices ranging between $20 and $30. Attach a tag to the items you want to keep track of with a key ring or adhesive. Each tag is color-cod-

ed and corresponds to a colored button on the finder.

When an item goes missing, you simply press the colored button on the locator remote and the tag will flash and beep. The signal will go through walls and cushions and has a tracking range of around 100 feet.

Make sure you keep the finder in a safe spot, because if you misplace it, you won’t be able to find the tagged items.

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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Glasses Tracker Since Tile doesn’t offer a glasses tracker, a great product to help your wife keep tabs on her eyeglasses is Orbit Glasses (www.

FindOrbit.com; $40). This is a tiny rechargeable Bluetooth device that sticks to the inside arm of the glasses so it’s not noticeable.

So, when your wife’s glasses aren’t on her head, but are nearby, she can use the free

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Page 12 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

POLICE BLOTTER PROVIDED BY THE WILLISTON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Feb. 28-March 6

Feb. 28 at 10:24 a.m. — Officer assisted a civilian with lost property.

March 1 at 6 a.m. — An officer removed a traffic hazard from Old

Creamery Road.

March 1 at 1:47 p.m. — Police responded to a two-vehicle collision without injuries on Harvest Lane.

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March 1 at 5:09 p.m. — Police responded to a report of fraud on Porterwood Drive.

March 1 at 8:05 p.m. — An officer assisted with trespassing an individual from a business on Hawthorne Street.

March 1 at 10:00 p.m. — Officers removed a branch from the roadway on Mountain View Road.

March 2 at 10:45 a.m. — The Comfort Dog team visited with poll workers on Town Meeting Day. March 2 at 11:21 a.m. — Police responded to Oak Knoll Road to assist Williston Rescue with a patient.

March 2 at 11:39 p.m. — The Comfort Dog team patrolled the Sucker Brook Trail.

March 2 at 3:42 p.m. — Police arrested an individual with an arrest warrant who entered the Williston Police Department.

March 2 at 4:51 p.m. — Officers responded to a two-vehicle collision on Old Creamery Road.

There were no injuries or hazards at the scene.

March 3 at 10:27 a.m. — Police responded to a report of vandalism on South Road. The officer notified Public Works of the graffiti.

March 3 at 3:08 p.m. — Officers responded and settled an argument on Zephyr Road.

March 3 at 3:25 p.m. — Police as-

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sisted a person who needed information about scams and how to avoid them.

March 4 at 1:37 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a noise disturbance on Holland Lane, and told the responsible individual to quiet down.

March 4 at 11:09 a.m. — The Comfort Dog team completed a news interview regarding the Comfort Dog Program.

March 4 at 11:23 a.m. — Police assisted a vehicle that was out of gas on Interstate 89.

March 4 at 11:32 a.m. — Police assisted Burlington Police Department with a vehicle collision on Colchester Avenue.

March 4 at 2:04 p.m. — Police responded to a report of a disturbance on Harvest Lane. They assisted with removing the individual from the premises.

March 4 at 3:20 p.m. — Police dispatched an injured and sick wild animal.

March 4 at 5:01 p.m. — Police responded to a three-motor vehicle collision on Saint George Road.

There were no hazards or injuries at the scene.

March 4 at 8:30 p.m. — Officers responded to reports of suspicious activity in Maple Tree Place.

Upon arrival, officers conducted a motor vehicle stop and subsequently arrested two persons for driving with a suspended license and retail theft.

March 5 at 7:54 a.m. — An officer responded to the report of vandalism on Seymour Road. The officer spoke to the persons that may be involved and took a report.

March 5 at 9:26 a.m. — The Comfort Dog Team visited a business on Zephyr Road.

March 5 at 2:12 p.m. — The Comfort Dog team celebrated K9 Duke’s first birthday.

March 6 at 10:33 a.m. — The Comfort Dog Team attended the Penguin Plunge on Central School Drive.

March 6 at 1:08 p.m. — Officers responded to reports of erratic driving on Williston Road. The officer found and conducted a motor vehicle stop with the driver, then after conducting Field Sobriety Test, took the driver into custody.

March 6 at 4:01 p.m. — Officers responded to a two-motor vehicle collision on Williston Road.

Upon arrival, there were no injuries or hazards.

March 6 at 11:02 p.m. — Officers cited an individual that had a warrant out on Shelburne Road.

March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 13

CROSSWORD • SOLUTION ON PAGE 15

CULINARY CORNER A delicious, healthy snack These protein-filled granola bars only take around 10 minutes of cooking to make 12 servings. Plus, most of the work is done in the microwave, so you won’t need to dirty a pot.

Peanut Granola Bars

1/2 cup honey 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular) 1 cup bran flakes 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, blueberries or cranberries) 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped In large, shallow, microwavable dish, combine honey, butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla and salt.

Microwave at 50 percent power 2 minutes then whisk to combine, and microwave at 50 percent power 2 minutes.

Add oats, bran flakes, coconut flakes, dried fruit and peanuts; stir to combine.

Microwave on high 1 minute. Stir and microwave 30 seconds.

Press mixture into 13-by-9-inch baking dish lined with parchment or wax paper with some extra hanging over edges to easily lift bars out. Use bottom of glass wrapped with plastic wrap to press granola mixture firmly into pan.

Allow to cool completely 30-45 minutes. Cut into 12-14 bars.

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ACROSS 1. Diet concern, abbr.

5. Award for a good student 9. Put on, as weight 13. Blocks 15. The good life 16. Different 17. Sight, e.g.

18. Line of rotation 19. Overshoot 20. Despised 21. Flash 23. Barring 24. Baby’s first word, perhaps 27. Doorways 29. Beirut native 33. Heap 34. Baking chamber 35. This’s counterpart 37. From the Vatican 41. What’s left, after taxes 42. LAX arrival approximation 43. “___ you a man or a mouse?”

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58. Bloom holder 59. Gal 60. Travel packages 62. Extremely trustful 66. Volcano flow 68. Engage, as an entertainer 70. Private 71. Grace ending 72. ___ voice 73. The fellas in “GoodFellas” 74. Track event 75. Nervously irritable 76. Pros’ opposite DOWN 1. Bills, e.g.

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25. NY collection 26. Phoenix rebirth stuff 28. Genetics lab study 29. Taking quite a while 30. Unceasingly 31. Test 32. Gnawed away 36. Burdens 38. Horse’s motion 39. Aesthetic fields 40. ___ said, the better 45. Relaxation destination 46. Light shade of red 48. So far 49. An annual publication giving general information 51. Like some mushrooms 53. Jean fabric 54. Large religion 55. Blush cause 56. Coastal safety measure 57. Responded to a bailiff’s request 61. Very small amount 63. Bit of data 64. Blood vessel 65. Great times 67. Home invader 69. Shift, Tab or Caps Lock

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Page 14 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

OBITUARY Richard W. Wescott Sr. Richard W. Wescott Sr., 77, of Williston, VT, passed away on March 5, 2021 following a long battle with health issues.

Richard was born in Burlington, VT to Russell and Anna Wescott on August 6, 1943. Prior to retirement, he worked for Coca Cola for many years. He enjoyed hunting and the New York Yankees, but his passion was fishing. He always loved a friendly competition of who could hook the biggest fish or catch the most.

His favorite place to fish was on Lake Champlain, especially around Vantine’s, while in the company of his sons and friends. His other passion was his love for playing horseshoes. Over the years during the warmer weather you could always count on finding him on the weekends at the horseshoe pits and at family gatherings playing. Over the years, he won many competitions and received many trophies. He loved friendly competition.

Richard is survived by his long-time companion of more than 30 years, Hattie Raymond of Williston; daughter, Kim Wescott of Berkshire; Son, Richard Wescott Jr. & Donna Jaro of Hinesburg; Son, Wayne Wescott of Berkshire; siblings, Russell Wescott and wife Jane, Larry Wescott and wife Sue, and Carol Russel; grandchildren, Amanda, Crystal, Sid, Chelsea, Megan, Wayne, Shelby; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his close friends, John Millette, Stan Parker and his special nephew and hunting buddy Richie Rogers. He is preceded in death by his parents Russell and Anna Wescott; sisters, Shirley Dusablon, Ilene Wescott, and Joan Burbo; brother, Raymond Wescott.

Due to COVID, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Arrangements are in the care of Stephen Gregory and Son.

Visit www.willistonobserver.com

EMPLOYMENT

CLASSIFIEDS LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING NEW ENGLAND CHIMNEY SUPPLYSPECIFIC PLANCOMMUNITY MEETING DATE: TUESDAY APRIL 6, 2021 TIME: 7:00PM ZOOM MEETING ID: 158 006 871 ZOOM: WWW.ZOOM.US/JOIN OR CALL: (646)-558-8656.

LEGAL NOTICE Copley Hospital, Greater Lamoille County’s Exceptional Community Hospital, is hiring for the following positions, Full-Time and Per Diem:

Registered Nurses Licensed Nursing Assistants Medical Lab Scientists W  ant to work in a vital role while helping to support your community?

Nestled in the mountains, minutes away from ski and hiking trails we are a Critical Access Hospital, where all team members play a critical role.

We offer competitive pay and shift differentials, employee discounts at local businesses, tuition reimbursement, and much more!

Reach out to Shannen Dando at sdando@chsi.org or apply online at www.copleyvt.org/careers Exceptional Care. Community Focused. That’s Copley.

TOWN OF WILLISTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD AGENDA Tuesday, March 23, 2020 – 7:00 PM Zoom Meeting ID 823-369-798 All projects that successfully completed pre-application review in calendar year 2019 are eligible for allocation per Williston Unified Development Bylaw Chapter 11 Growth Management.

The following projects have submitted a questionnaire and are eligible for consideration: Projects within the Growth Center: None Projects Outside of the Growth Center but Inside of the Sewer Service Area: DP 20-18 Catamount Golf, 1400 Mountain View Road, 132 units of allocation DP 21-05 Michaud, 260 Mountain View Road, 19 units of allocation Projects Outside of the Sewer Service Area: DP 21-08 Barland, Lot 2 Shagbark Lane, 1 unit of allocation 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: 878-6704 Meeting Location: Zoom Meeting ID 823-369-798 (no physical location) Call 1-646558-8656 or go to https://zoom. us/j/823369798

LEGAL NOTICE 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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March 18, 2021 • Williston Observer • Page 15

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Redhawks ready for postseason

Page 16 • Williston Observer • March 18, 2021

The CVU boys basketball team outscored Colchester by nearly 20 points in the second half to pull away for a 62-47 Senior Night win Friday.

Devin Rogers had 13 points for the Redhawks and Zach Doane chipped in with 11 points.

A total of 11 players scored in the game.

With the win, CVU finished with a 6-3 record and earned the No. 5 seed in the Division I boys basketball state tournament.

The CVU girls basketball team wrapped up an undefeated regular season with a 66-29 win over Spaulding on Friday.

Catherine Gilwee scored 15 points to lead the Redhawks, while Madison Reagan and Shelby Companion each added 10 points.

CVU finished the season 9-0, earning the No. 1 seed in the Division I girls basketball state tournament.

The CVU Redhawks defeated Colchester last Friday in their last regular season game before the playoffs.

At left, Devin Rogers drives to the hoop; center, Zach Doane puts in a layup; at right, Deng Dua looks to score. OBSERVER PHOTOS BY AL FREY

— Lauren Read

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