The Citizen - 10-20-22

Charlotte looks at cannabis regulation

State approves three companies for cultivation

COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER

Three companies may soon be growing and cultivating cannabis in Charlotte, in both indoor and outdoor grow operations, but it’s up to the planning commission and the development review board to set local regulations for the establishments.

Three cultivation operations in Char lotte have been approved for licenses by the state’s Cannabis Control Board and are authorized to commence operations: Heady Righton LLC, Boreas Ventures LLC and Red Clover Canopies LLC.

Red Clover Canopies LLC and Heady Righton LLC are both listed as tier 1 cultiva tion sites, which are limited to 1,000 square feet and up to 125 plants on the premises.

John Stern is the registered agent for Red Clover Canopies LLC, whose princi pal address is listed in South Burlington, according to filing documents. Stern could not be reached for comment.

Boreas Ventures LLC, meanwhile, is listed as a tier 3 outdoor operation and is allowed 5,000 square feet to grow, accord ing to the state. The business is currently

PHOTO BY LEE KROHN

A maple explodes with color.

Orange beauty

Wheels for Warmth tire sale keeps Vermonters toasty

Wheels for Warmth is back for another winter heating season.

The annual tire recycle and resale event collects tires from around the state to be either recycled or sold at three loca tions on Saturday, Oct. 29., and the proceeds are then used to keep Vermonters warm this winter and to provide used, safe tires at affordable prices to those in need.

Proceeds from the event go to emergency heating assistance throughout Vermont provided by Capstone Community Action, BROC Community Action and Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity.

“We are entering yet anoth er challenging winter season with soaring heating, housing and food costs, and myriad transportation challenges at the forefront for many Vermont ers,” said Sue Minter, executive director of Capstone Communi ty Action. “The positive impact of this event cannot be overstat ed.”

Since 2005, Wheels for Warmth has resold 25,000 tires, recycled 50,000 tires and removed them from the Vermont waste stream, and shared $610,000 in proceeds between the three participating community action agencies to provide heating assistance to

Vermonters.

Tires will be collected Thurs day, Oct. 27, and Friday, Oct. 28, from 2-6 p.m. at Vermont Granite Museum, Barre; Casel la Waste Systems, Williston; and Casella Construction, Mendon; and 1-5 p.m. at the Stowe Events Field, Stowe.

The tire sale will take place on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to noon in two locations: Vermont Granite Museum in Barre and Casella Construction in Mendon.

All unsafe tires are recy cled at $5 fee per tire, $10 fee per truck tire. To learn more about the event visit wheelsfor warmth.org.

Sen. Ram Hinsdale receives EPA award

Chittenden County Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale was honored last week by the Environmental Protec tion Agency with a 2022 Envi ronmental Merit Award for her environmental justice leadership.

The ceremony included regional EPA director David Cash, other regional environ mental administrators and other New England recipients. There were two awards given in the government category, one to Ram Hinsdale and the other to the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank.

pass Vermont’s first environmental justice policy this past legislative session. She also added what it means to be recognized in a small, rural state.

Sen. Kesha Ram Hinsdale

In her remarks Ram Hinsdale thanked the EPA for its collabora tive effort to get translated public health information to immigrant communities in Vermont during the pandemic and for helping to

“Vermont is often recognized for its envi ronmental leadership, but not necessarily for leading on environ mental justice. We have many disparities in who is impacted by natu ral disasters or faces a higher burden of envi ronmental impact, but we do not always use the lens of environmen tal justice,” she said. “It means a lot to be recognized for over 15 years of work advancing environmental health and justice, and the work will continue for decades to come.”

More details about the awards can be found at bit.ly/3EFNiBz.

Hinesburg artist series to feature community band

The Hinesburg Artist Series will perform a mix of choral and band music at Champlain Valley Union High School at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 26.

“Our fall concert is always popular, as the music selection is designed to appeal to everyone,” said Rufus Patrick, Hinesburg Artist Series music director. “We love sharing our music, and there is no charge for this concert.”

The South County Chorus selections include spirituals like “I’m Gonna Sing When the Spirit Says Sing” and “The Dreamer in Me,” as well as moving pieces like “Tuimbe,” “Sing Out Your Joy” and “Sing to Me.”

The Hinesburg Community Band is performing “Extraordi nary Machines of Clockwork and Steam,” “Legacy,” “Sawdust City Celebration” and the exhilarating “Wild Rose Jamboree.”

Maris Rose, a soprano who has performed with the Hinesburg Artist Series for many years, said, “I love the spirit of the music we are doing this year and I’m look ing forward to sharing it with the community.”

“We are pleased to have strong community support,” said Patrick. “The past few years have been tough, but it is due to this commu nity that we are able to continue to spread joy through music.”

FILE PHOTO

Volunteers at a previous Wheels for Warmth event.

New forestry specialist comes on line

Dr. Alexandra Kosiba recently joined the University of Vermont Extension as its new forestry specialist.

She will be based in the Exten sion office in South Burlington.

Kosiba, a licensed Vermont forester, brings expertise to the job in several forestry related fields, including climate-adaptive forest management, forest carbon science and management, tree physiology and forest ecology and health. Although her target audi ence is landowners, foresters and municipalities, she also will part ner with state agencies, members of the forest economy, including loggers and producers, and orga nizations such as Vermont Coverts and the Vermont Woodlands Asso ciation.

In addition, she will continue some of the work she started in her previous position as the climate forester for the Vermont Depart ment of Forests, Parks and Recre ation. This will entail leading the Vermont forest cargon inventory and serving as the state’s point person for foresters and landown ers on forest carbon and carbon offset markets.

The U. S. Forest Service recent ly awarded her a grant through

its Landscape Scale Restoration grant program. One of the goals of this project is to determine what landowners, foresters and others need in order to include climate resilience in forest decisions and management. She will help devel op resources to help Vermont’s forests and forest supply chain adapt to a changing climate.

The Amherst, Mass., native earned her doctorate and master’s degree in forest science from UVM’s Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resourc

es. Previous employment included staff scientist at the Forest Ecosys tem Monitoring Cooperative and a brief teaching stint in the forestry department at the university.

Kosiba lives in West Bolton on 10 acres of forestland in a house that she built with her husband.

They manage their land for recreation and climate resilience as well as harvest firewood and saw timber.

Reach her at (802) 651-8343, ext. 504, or alexandra.kosiba@ uvm.edu.

YOU A CONCERNED VERMONTER, TAXPAYER OR PARENT?

VOTE

CANNABIS continued from page

“setting up our gardens in the beau tiful Champlain Lowland,” accord ing to the company’s website.

While the three companies have state approval, the question of local regulation is still unclear.

Town planner Larry Lewack said that Charlotte zoning officials have had “lots of internal discus sions about the appropriate town role to regulate such projects and have checked in (with) municipal colleagues in other towns, and with the town attorney.”

“Based on those discussions, we believe towns have jurisdic tion to regulate indoor cannabis grows as commercial operations,” he said. “Here in Charlotte, we can require indoor cannabis growers to apply for conditional use approval via the development review board. But there’s new (state) legislation (Act 158) that exempts outdoor grows up to 1,000 square feet from municipal permitting.”

“It’s confusing terrain to navigate and we’re aware some residents are concerned about potential impacts of these kinds of operations,” he added. “We’re getting ready to post guidance to this effect on the town website, once it’s been fully vetted.”

Residents for weeks have urged the selectboard to regulate canna bis, so it’s zoned appropriately

and is “kept away from people’s homes,” said Andrew Hale, a Prin dle Road resident who says he lives near one of the grow operations.

“Engaging with marijuana should be a matter of personal choice and if commercial scale marijuana growing is allowed to be right next to where people live it really takes those neigh bors’ choice out of the matter and they’re forced to potentially deal with the negative consequences to water quality, to air quality and character of the neighborhood,” Hale said.

“I just don’t think that’s right or fair,” he added. “I think it is common sense to keep commer cial marijuana operations away from where people live. I think most people in Charlotte would probably not want a commercial scale marijuana operation moving in right next to them and partic ularly so if they’re families with kids.”

The selectboard, however, has deferred most of the process to the planning commission and review board.

“Our authority is really limit ed on this,” selectboard chair Jim Faulkner said.

Since cannabis cultivation is not a listed use as either permitted or conditional, it would have to go

through as an unlisted use, which would leave it up to the DRB to decide whether it fits within the uses that are allowed in that district, selectboard member Frank Tenney said.

Lewack said that the town intends to approach one of the operations on Greenbush Road “about applying for a conditional use permit.”

But regulating cannabis town wide will likely wait until the town tackles its second round of land use regulations.

Since the creation of the devel opment review board last year, the planning commission has set out to complete a major overhaul of its land use regulations, aiming to have voters approve two rounds of changes — one in November and one on March Town Meeting Day.

Cannabis will likely find its place in town zoning laws during the second set of updates that offi cials have said will be more policy driven than the current round of updates.

“We want to proceed careful ly, to make sure we can legally enforce whatever requirements we impose on this emerging industry, and that we come up with a regu latory framework that balances community interests with property rights,” Lewack said.

@ROLLANDFORSENATE

3 DAY ANTIQUE ESTATE SALE Thurs, Fri, Sat. 8a.m.-5p.m. Oct 20, 21 & 22 10 Green Street • Vergennes

Contents of several local homes including a South Burlington condo, an East Middlebury home, remaining contents of an historic home in Middlebury and numerous other sources.

Mahogany furniture inc. round 1839 Philadelphia dining table, Federal secretary, Empire dressers, sofas. English furniture inc. slant lid desk, 18th C dish dresser, 19th C corner cupboard, dressers, butler’s secretary, etc. Victorian furniture inc. oak dressers, rolltop desk, bookcase, dining set; walnut whatnot, partner’s desk, armoires, commodes, small dresser. MCM inc. Ligne Roeset dining set, handsome walnut cabinet, Saarinen type table, pair of sling chairs, teak coffee table, tuckaway table. Country furniture inc. cupboard on stand, set of 10 caned chairs, cherry setback cupboard. Art inc. signed etchings by Ettinger, Bishop, Clarke, Klieber, Owen, Grant, Maclean, contemporary and antique oils + watercolors. Misc inc. wood Penn Yan canoe and car topper, sculling oars, canoe paddles, dozens of local and factory wooden decoys, fishing poles, “Aux Stats Unis” steamer trunk and others, Empire girandoles, china, glass, lamps, upholstered furniture, contemporary furnishings and decor, carpets, iron wine rack, bookcases, books, maps, clothing and so much more!

Don’t forget to visit your other local dealers at the Champlain Valley Antiques Show Fri, Oct 21 & Sat, Oct 21 10-5 • Sun, Oct 23 10-4

Clear, straightforward advice to help you reach your goals. Our advice is shaped by thorough, independent research and our decades of industry experience.

We are a low-fee fiduciary. Contact us to start securing your financial future.

Maltex Building - Burlington, VT - 802.658.2668

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Alexandra Kosiba

Pedestrian killed on Shelburne Road

LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER

A pedestrian was killed on Shel burne Road and Harrington Avenue after being struck by a motor vehi cle on Wednesday evening, Oct. 12.

The pedestrian, identified as Nathan Miner, 60, of Shelburne, was struck by a car driven by Craig Simmons, 46, of Shelburne, who was traveling north on Shelburne Road.

Shelburne Police first respond ed to Shelburne Road at 7:22 p.m. on Oct. 12, assisted by Hinesburg police and Vermont State Police Crash Reconstruction Team.

Miner was transported to University of Vermont Medical

Center’s emergency room by Shel burne Fire Department and Shel burne Rescue Squad.

He died of his injuries on Oct. 17, at 5 p.m., according to police.

The fatal incident is the latest development amid a years-long conversation surrounding safer sidewalks and crosswalks for pedestrians in Shelburne Village.

Police have at least one eyewit ness, but are looking for more people that were in the area at the time, Shelburne Police Chief Mike Thomas said.

This crash is still under inves tigation, and anyone with addition al information should contact the Shelburne Police Department at 802-985-8051.

Accident kills cyclist

A cyclist was killed on Hines burg Road Saturday after being involved in an accident with a motor vehicle.

Gerard Malavenda, 65, of Williston, was taken to University of Vermont Medical Center where he later died.

Police identified the driver of the vehicle as Richard K. Lewis, 69, of Hinesburg.

South Burlington police responded to the crash scene at

1410 Hinesburg Road around 12:16 p.m. on Oct. 15.

Traffic on Hinesburg Road was briefly shut down while the Vermont State Police crash recon struction team documented the scene near the Route 116 inter section with Dubois and Butler drives.

Anyone with information should contact officer Hazen Powell at 802-846-4111 or hpow ell@southburlingtonpolice.org.

The Citizen

Serving the community of Charlotte & Hinesburg A publication of Vermont Community Newspaper Group LLC thecitizenvt.com

Advertising Wendy Ewing wendy@shelburnenews.com (802) 985-3091 x12

Advertising Director Judy Kearns judy@otherpapersbvt.com (802) 864-6670 x21

Managing

Dylan Kelley dylan@stowereporter.com

Tommy

Aaron

Editor/Publisher Gregory Popa gpopa@stowereporter.com

Billing inquiries

Leslie Lafountain leslie@stowereporter.com (802) 253-2101

Advertising submission deadline: Friday at 5 p.m. advertising@thecitizenvt.com classifieds@thecitizenvt.com

Editorial submission deadline: Friday at 5 p.m. news@thecitizenvt.com

Calendar submission deadline: Friday at 12 p.m. news@thecitizenvt.com

In training

Stephanie Manning stephanie@shelburnenews.com

Contact: 1340 Williston Road South Burlington, VT 05403 (802) 985-3091

Vermont Community Newspaper

Sept. 3 at 2:24 a.m., Dustin Ander son, 35, of Champlain, N.Y., was arrested for operating a motorcycle under the influence

of drugs. Witnesses told police Anderson was driving erratical ly prior to crashing his motor cycle on Route 7 in Charlotte

near Church Hill Road. A blood sample indicated he had drugs in his system at the time of the accident, according to police.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE VOLUNTEER FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

A couple of kids ham it up a a recent open house of the Charlotte Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service.

Vermont State Police Blotter

OPINION

Charlotte energy group says weatherization works

Guest Perspective

Kitt Urdang

More and more people are catching onto the Charlotte Energy Committee’s weather ization project, which is in full swing right now, helping residents feel more comfort able, save money and help the environment.

By sealing up their homes for winter, households can save an average of 15 percent on heating bills, increase their indoor comfort, minimize home repairs, improve air quality, reduce emissions and build community resiliency.

Weatherizing a home, which involves sealing and insulating to trap hot or cold air inside, is a powerful way to outsmart winter, although it keeps indoor spaces cooler and more comfortable in the summer as well. In a region with such long and harsh winters, weatheriza tion is an essential step for responsible energy users and budgeters.

The benefits of weath erization are numerous, according to the Depart ment of Energy. Weath erization creates more livable homes with health benefits for those who live in them. For example, Americans miss fewer days of work due to illness and pay less out-of-pocket medical expenses after their home is weatherized.

In addition, given that Vermont does not

produce nor hold reserves of fossil fuels, all petroleum, natural gas and coal consumed in the state is imported. Therefore, reducing home energy use through weatherization sends less money outside of the state and promotes the state’s energy independence and resilience.

The Charlotte Energy Committee’s weatherization project helps Charlotters reap these immense benefits, especially those who might not otherwise be able to afford needed upgrades to their homes. The project encourages residents to take as-needed materials such as plastic window insulation, rubber window seals, door sweeps, threshold rubber seals, pipe insulation, outlet and light switch cover gaskets, foam, caulk and low-flow showerheads.

The committee can offer such extensive weatherization support thanks to a grant from the Vermont Council on Rural Development’s Climate Catalyst Inno vation Fund. The grant money has been used to hire town resident Maris sa Green, who runs the project.

Green coordinates with residents to make sure they get weatherizing materials the committee has purchased, as well as support from the state for do-it-yourself weatherizing. Email Green at charlotte weatherization@gmail.com to acquire materials or to get general information

Letters to the Editor

To the Editor:

We are excited to write this letter in support of Phil Pouech, who is seeking to represent the town of Hinesburg in the Legislature to replace Bill Lippert, who served our community so well these past 29 years.

As a longtime and active community member, and as a selectboard member for the past 11 years, Pouech will bring a thoughtful, respectful and objective perspec tive to the issues the Legislature will be facing.

We have known Pouech for more than 30 years as our children began school together in 1988. We worked with him on Green Up Day for years and observed him navigate, as a selectboard member and chair, many issues, some very difficult and divisive. He treated others on the board and the members

of the public fairly, calmly and respectfully. He listened and articulated his views clearly. In short, he has the character, qualities and experience to serve Hinesburg well in Montpelier.

In addition, Pouech shared his views during the primary on some of the key issues facing Vermont. The issues important to Pouech, as submitted by him in the July 21 issue of The Citizen, include climate change, the reproductive rights of women, a fairer tax policy, education and transportation. His views on these significant issues will help to move Hinesburg and the state forward in support of the community and its citizens.

Pouech is committed to working hard on our behalf in the Legislature, and we hope you will consider joining us in voting for Phil Pouech on the Nov. 8 General Election ballot.

Carl Bohlen and Kristy McLeod Hinesburg

about weatherization.

Perhaps surprisingly, one of the most impactful strategies for improving efficien cy is having one’s furnace cleaned.

Plus, any Vermonter can get a free virtual energy consultation through Button Up Vermont, and Vermonters whose incomes are below a certain amount (vary ing based on county and household size) can qualify for weatherization services that make about $10,000 worth of improve ments per home through adding insulation, reducing drafts and more.

This program is possible because the Legislature and governor committed $40 million of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to home weatherization for low- and moderate-income families.

Despite the influx of funds there are still barriers to Vermonters’ ability to weatherize. There is a large gap between the demand for weatherization services and the number of workers currently certified to do weatherization work. The Energy Action Network estimates that the weather ization workforce needs to grow five-fold in the next five years to meet state climate goals.

According to an Efficiency Vermont report from January 2022, the Legislature’s

2021 working group on the weatherization workforce found that barriers to workforce growth include the state’s focus on a fouryear college path; worker shortages; wage competition; funding uncertainty; and lack of affordable housing.

Meanwhile, solutions include weather ization workforce training and certification; marketing the trades as a strong future path; reaching out to immigrant popu lations; increasing transparency around wages; creating workforce housing; and sustaining demand for weatherization through lasting incentives.

The report finds that the workforce will grow, and weatherization can continue as planned when the state works on all these goals at the same time.

While Charlotters work on the longterm goal of promoting weatherization through statewide energy incentives and affordable housing, they can get to work immediately on DIY solutions with the help of the Charlotte weatherization proj ect.

Kitt Urdang, a student at Williams College, was a full-time intern with the Charlotte Energy Committee over the summer of 2022.

Pouech is poised for proper policy positions

Despite the influx of funds there are still barriers to Vermonters’ ability to weatherize. There is a large gap between the demand for weatherization services and the number of workers currently certified to do weatherization work.

Be a witness to the truth about abortion

Guest Perspective Joseph P. Blanchette

The Vermont Legislature has moved at full speed to insert the right to abor tion into the Vermont Constitution with Proposition 5. One would be hard-pressed, however, to understand Prop-5’s specific intent by reading the proposed amendment. The change to Sec 2, Article 22 of Chapter 1 of the Constitution that will go before Vermont voters this November reads: “That an individual’s right to personal reproductive autonomy is central to the liberty and dignity to determine one’s own life course and shall not be denied or infringed unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the least restric tive means.”

Most Vermonters reading this language will shake their heads and say, “Huh? What exactly does this mean?” Even legislative proponents have admitted uncertainty. When asked to explain what this wording means and articulate its long-term impli cations, many legislators applaud the ambi guity and candidly admit, “The courts will decide.” This isn’t the way to pass laws or change our Constitution.

The verbiage of this proposed amend ment got me thinking about how important language is when dealing with serious matters like human rights, liberty, justice and life and death. Too often advocates

for radical social change use euphemisms when advancing difficult and unpopular topics lest readers dwell too much on what is being proposed or taking place.

History is full of such examples. Perhaps the best-known euphemism is how Nazis leaders talked about their “final solution” to the “Jewish question” rather than their plan to kill millions of Jews, gypsies, homosex uals and other so-called unwanted, lesser human beings. Terms like this made it easier for people to avoid confronting the evil that many knew was taking place.

In this light, I’ve been paying attention to the euphemisms used by advocates for abortion and Prop 5. Consider this list of the oft-mentioned terms: “A woman’s fundamental rights,” “the right to choose,” “reproductive rights,” “true reproduc tive liberty,” “reproductive health care services,” “personal reproductive auton omy,” “decisional autonomy and bodily integrity,” among others.

Reading such esoteric terms, one might never know what is being discussed — the intentional killing of innocent, human babies living in the womb. The above phrases have that final solution euphemis tic feel to them.

The term abortion likewise has a euphemistic quality that also clouds reality. Under its heading come several procedures. Medical abortion uses drugs like RU-486, which cause the uterus to contract, detach and expel the developing fetus, Latin for “little one.”

Suction curettage uses a tube inserted into the woman’s uterus to suckout the developing baby. A dilation and evacu ation (D&E) abortion involves the abortionist inserting instruments into the woman’s cervix to dismember and extract the baby’s body parts from the uterus.

So-called dilation and extraction (D&X) abortions, also called partial birth abortions, are where the baby is delivered feet first. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, while the head remains partially in the birth canal, delivery is paused while “evacuation of the intracrani al contents (the brain) of the living fetus” takes place, thus delivering a dead baby.

It’s much more comfortable to hear terms like medical abortion, RU-486, D&E and D&X procedures than details about intentionally killing unborn human beings. All the above are already permitted under Vermont law.

Sadly, the highly politicized college of obstetricians and gynecologists also prefers to cloud the horror of abortion. In its March 2022 “Guide to Language on Abor tion,” it encourages OBGYNs to avoid using problematic words like baby, unborn child and dismemberment of the fetus.

Yes, language is powerful and can be used to do good or commit evil. In the early-to-mid 20th century many Vermonters embraced a national social movement known as eugenics, yet another euphemism. They supported legislation hoping to reduce the growing number of Vermont’s “problem groups.”

Physicians and university professors joined with legislators to pass laws forcing sterilizations upon Vermonters seen as physically and mentally “defective: idiots, imbeciles, and feebleminded,” and prohib iting their marriage. As happened nation ally, this evil perpetrated upon vulnerable Vermonters was sanctioned by academics, political leaders, doctors and average Vermonters for decades. Fortunately, eugenics was not enshrined in Vermont’s Constitution and this hideous policy was eventually reversed.

Let’s stop pretending that we don’t know what’s taking place when we hear talking points about abortion, choice, or a woman’s right to reproductive liberty. A second human life is at stake. Unborn,

See ABORTION

DON’T HIBERNATE. BUTTON UP.

There’s no need to sleep away the winter. Button up your home with up to 75% off weatherization project costs.* You’ll stay warm and cozy – save money, too.

Join us virtually for Weatherization Wednesdays throughout October to learn more!

ButtonUpVermont.org

*subject to eligibility and availability

sponsored by Efficiency Vermont

Sadly, the highly politicized college of obstetricians and gynecologists also prefers to cloud the horror of abortion.

continued from

human babies are being killed while grow ing peacefully in the womb.

The right to life of our most innocent, voiceless and helpless humans is being snatched away in the name of personal reproductive autonomy. Is this social justice?

Let’s be that voice against the modern, genocidal evil that has been taking place in America since Roe v. Wade and the subsequent deaths over 63 million unborn babies. No more euphemisms. Abortion is the willful killing of innocent, human beings — unborn babies developing in their mothers’ wombs. Be assured, just as

we condemn shameful, societal evils of the past like slavery, our descendants will look back at us one day with similar horror and distain.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Aleksan dr Solzhenitsyn, a Soviet dissident who survived Stalin’s deadly gulags cautioned, “The simple step of a courageous individ ual is not to take part in the lie. One word of truth outweighs the world.”

Will you take that simple step for unborn babies and be a witness for the truth about abortion? Vote no on Prop 5.

Joseph P. Blanchette lives in Charlotte.

HONOR OUR VETERANS

On Nov. 10, The Citizen will be honored to publish photos of the men and women who have unselfishly served our country.

If you have a veteran who you would like us to honor, please mail or email your photo by Thursday, Nov. 3

Please include name of veteran, branch of service, rank, years of service and town of residence.

Email photos and text to: editor@thecitizenvt.com or mail to The Citizen, 1340 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT 05403

the community

character

Dress for Fall at Jess Boutique

Diane Von Furstenberg

Orb or cob: How spiders spin their amazing webs

The Outside Story Rachel Sargent Mirus

One neighbor calls our house “the spider house” because so many orb weav ers spin webs outside our large living room windows. Our spiders work on their webs at dawn and dusk, and I watch their silhou ettes against pastel skies as they move like aerialists — twisting, pulling, building, repairing.

The orb web, with its two-dimensional, radiat ing geometry, is the iconic spiderweb. But various spider species spin differ ent web types, ranging from simple to complex. These include aptly named triangle webs, as well as funnel webs that spar kle with morning dew in lawns and fields, and myriad three-dimensional tangle or cobwebs, which have been compared to galaxies in their structural complexity.

Most frequently, a spider builds a web as its home, as its primary tool for catching food — or, often, as both. Usually, females settle down to spin while males wander in search of mates. Scientists have studied a few web-building behav iors, including those of orb weavers and cobweb creators.

Orb web construction requires four different silk building materials and follows recognizable stages. The frame of the web is made from super-strong silk anchored by a second cement-like silk. A spider will start with a proto web of a few threads, then spin the radial threads that create the web

frame. Next, the spider adds a temporary auxiliary spiral, which stabilizes the web, allows the spider to cross between radii as it continues to build, and guides the place ment of the final capture spiral. The capture spiral – used, as its name suggests, to capture prey – generally comprises an extra stretchy silk coated with a second silk glue. Some spiders, however, use a woolly silk that sticks to insects like fuzz on Velcro. Once a spider has committed to building a web, it takes about an hour to finish.

Research by Andrew Gordus of Johns Hopkins University has shown that spiders are constantly assessing their webs for errors and will backtrack to previous construction stages to make adjust ments, often necessary when building in unpre dictable outdoor environ ments.

Gordus compares web building to dance choreography, noting, however, that, “ballet isn’t performed in a vacuum. There’s senso ry input: the music.” For spiders, the music is their silk, and they are constantly listening with their legs. Partly this listening is literal, as spiders use their webs to detect vibrations transmitted through the silk. But they are also “listening” to the web by paying atten tion to how well it functions. A damaged or poorly built web must be improved or that spider risks going hungry —or getting caught by other predators.

Just as a dance can have sections defined by characteristic moves, the stages of orb

ILLUSTRATION BY ADELAIDE MURPHY TYROL

See

OUTSIDE STORY

The American house spider on my bath room windowsill has maintained the same web for months, extending it as she grew bigger and repairing it when I’ve moved a supporting object.

If it’s important to you or your community look for it in The Citizen.

THE OUTSIDE

continued from

web building are characterized by specific actions. When spiders make the radial threads, they walk in and out from the web center. When they build the inner spiral, they repeat a particular silk-an choring behavior. Their legs, which handle the silk, also have distinct gestures at each stage.

Spiders that build three-dimen sional tangle webs — commonly called cobwebs — also follow recognizable construction stages.

As Markus Buehler and Wei Lu of MIT explain, spiders build ing this type of web first create a rough outline of the web, which includes key anchoring points, using the super-strong silk.

Once these are established, the spider further develops the web, which may include elastic threads and sticky booby traps. Within two days, the spider has a web with all the primary functional architecture, but they continue to improve and repair over time. Like orb web builders, cobweb builders are constantly listening to their webs.

The duration a spider keeps a web varies. Some will repair and reinforce a web over extended periods, while others will build

new ones every night. Exempla ry recyclers, spiders often eat their old silk to reuse it. The orb weavers outside our living room window tend to keep a web for several days before consum ing the old web and spinning a new one. On the other hand, the American house spider on my bathroom windowsill has main tained the same web for months, extending it as she grew bigger and repairing it when I’ve moved a supporting object.

Regardless of what type of web they weave, I find spiders fascinating and agree with Gordus, who told me, “Spiders are wonderful creatures / Most are harmless. They’re eating so many things around the house that we don’t want.” Given the number of webs around my home, it seems my house is being well-kept by these tiny, web-spinning guests.

Rachel Sargent Mirus lives in Duxbury. Illustration by Adelaide Murphy Tyrol. The Outside Story is assigned and edited by North ern Woodlands magazine and sponsored by the Wellborn Ecol ogy Fund of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, nhcf.org.

115 Ferry Road, Charlotte. 802-425-3864. Register at char lottepubliclibrary.org or info@ charlottepubliclibrary.org.

All programs will take place via Zoom unless noted until further notice. Links can be found on the library website.

KIDS

Preschool storytime

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 10-11 a.m.

Stories, crafts and activities. No registration.

Kindergarten, first grade storytime

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 3-4 p.m.

Call to register. The Oct. 4 storytime is at the Charlotte Fire Station.

Preschool free play

Wednesday, Oct. 26, 10-11 a.m.

Explore the sensory table, sorting, playing with blocks, play dough, more. On the porch. Ages 3 and 4.

News from Charlotte Library

the wilder, richer future a natu ral landscape can bring. Copies to check out or purchase at the library circulation desk. Co-spon sored by Sustainable Charlotte.

Book chat

Fridays, Oct. 21 and 28, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Join Margaret Friday on Zoom to discuss new books, old books and books missed.

Short story selections

Thursday, Oct. 20, 1-2 p.m.

ADULTS

‘Returning Nature to our Farm’

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 7-8:30 p.m.

Six-week discussion series starts based on Isabella Tree’s recent book. “Wilding” is an inspiring story about what happens when 3,500 acres of land, farmed for centuries, is left to return to the wild, and about

Join library director Margaret Woodruff to share and discuss short stories old and new. Regis ter in advance.

Tech help sessions

Thursday, Oct. 20, 1-2:30 p.m.

Email enigma? Kindle conun drum? Computer question? Sign up for a 40-minute one-on-one session with Susanna, the tech nology librarian. Registration required; call 802-425-6345. At Charlotte Senior Center.

We Can Take It!

From air conditioners to x-rays, check our A-Z list and learn how to dispose of, recycle, or reuse items and materials you no longer want.

Now serving you with eight Drop-Off locations in Chittenden County.

SCAN CODE FOR A-Z List

Visit cswd.net for locations and materials accepted.

offers garden program

Vermont’s Ellen Ecker Ogden is a food and garden writer who co-founded The Cook’s Garden seed catalog in 1984, introducing home gardeners to European and American heirloom lettuces and salad greens. Her catalog grew to include a range of European specialty vegetables, herbs and flowers for gardeners who love to cook. Ogden will be the guest speaker at the Tuesday, Oct. 25, monthly meeting of The Burlington Garden Club, 6 p.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, 899 Dorset St., South Burlington. Her topic is kitchen garden design. Learn what to grow for the best flavor and fragrance and how to get started growing a good garden and becoming a seed saver. The program is free and open to the public. Ogden is the author of five books, including “The Complete Kitchen Garden” and “The New Heirloom Garden.” She grows a year-round food garden and writes a weekly newsletter, “The Art of Growing Food,” featuring fresh ideas for cooks who love to garden. She graduated with a degree in fine arts and attended cooking school with Marcella Hazan in Venice, and at the Ballymaloe School in Shanagarry, Ireland. Her articles and kitchen garden designs have appeared in many national publications, including The New York Times, Martha Stewart Living, Better Homes and Gardens and Country Gardens.

Community Notes

Hinesburg firefighters to host Halloween party

The Hinesburg Firefighters Association is hosting its annual Halloween party at the fire station on Monday, Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m.

The evening will include games and treats for kids of all ages.

The association is looking for approximately 30 pumpkins for local Boy and Girl Scouts to carve before the party. If you have pumpkins to donate or would like to donate for the purchase of pumpkins or other supplies, email Eric Spivack at espiv31@gmail. com.

Hinesburg police held drug take-back event

The Hinesburg Police Depart ment, in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administra tion, will host a medication takeback event on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Kinney Drugs, 10218 Vermont Route 116 in Hinesburg.

Drop off any unneeded or expired medications for safe disposal.

If you have medication that needs to be disposed of immedi ately, simply drop off prescrip tions or non-prescription drugs at the Hinesburg Police Department.

Richmond woman named to fish and wildlife board

Allison Frazier of Richmond is the new Chittenden County member of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board.

A life-long Vermonter, Frazier has spent 20 years working in the outdoor industry as a sales repre sentative and served as board president for the organization 360 Adventure Collective. Her many outdoor pursuits include deer and bird hunting, fishing, skiing, hiking and biking.

The board is a citizen panel that sets the rules regulating hunt ing, trapping and fishing, informed by expert input from Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department staff and guided by the department’s mission.

Board members serve six-year terms, with one board member from each of Vermont’s 14 coun ties.

Register ahead for Age Well meals

The Age Well meal pickup for Thursday, Oct. 27, is from 10-11 a.m., Charlotte Senior Center, 212 Ferry Road, and features beef steak, barbecue sauce, Italian rice risotto with diced tomatoes, Ital ian vegetables with black beans,

wheat bread with butter, berry crisp with cream and milk.

You must have pre-registered by Monday, Oct. 24, with Kerrie Pughe, 802-425-6345 or kpughe@ charlotteseniorcentervt.org

The meal on Thursday, Nov. 3 — register by Oct. 31 — has not been announced.

Check the website for last-min ute cancellations at charlottese niorcentervt.org.

Senior center hosts Monday Munch

The next Monday Munch at the Charlotte Senior Center is Oct. 24, 212 Ferry Road, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy spaghetti bolognese with beef, caesar salad, garlic bread and pumpkin pie with whipped cream.

A $5 donation is appreciated.

A special Halloween munch on Oct. 31 features lunch but also a costume contest (costumes are optional). Wear your Halloween costume, mask or hat. Halloween treat bags and hopefully no tricks. The meal will consist of assort ed sandwiches, potato salad and pumpkin pie cupcakes.

Check the website in case of last-minute cancellations at char lotteseniorcentervt.org.

Grab a meal to go in Shelburne Nov. 8

Age Well and St. Catherine’s of Siena Parish in Shelburne are once again teaming up to provide a meal to go for anyone age 60 and older on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

The menu is roast pork with sauce, mashed red potatoes, butter nut squash, wheat roll with butter, apple crisp with topping and milk. The meal will be available for pick up in the parking lot at 72 Church St. from 11 a.m.-noon.

To order contact Sheryl Ober ding at soberding@yahoo.com (preferred) or 802-825-8546.

The deadline to order is Thurs day, Nov. 3.

If this is a first-time order, provide your name, address, phone number and date of birth.

If you haven’t already regis tered for the meal program, forms will be at meal pick up, or down load at bit.ly/3MIlVZx.

More at agewellvt.org.

Essex Junction church holds community concerts

Community Concerts at First presents jazz pianist Tom Cleary on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m., First Congregational Church of Essex Junction, 39 Main St

The Sunday afternoon concert

COURTESY PHOTO

Noted

NOTES

from

will feature piano music by Vermont jazz composers James Harvey, Paul Asbell, Brian McCarthy, Ellen Powell and Lar Duggan, and sacred tunes by Duke Ellington. Come out to enjoy one of Vermont’s jazz musicians and raise funds for the Essex Commu nity Justice Center. The perfor mance is part of the Community Concerts at First music series cele brating artists from Vermont and New England.

Suggested donation of $20 per adult (children under 18 free). Space is limited. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the door or bit.ly/3MBhfV7.

State archives, records office holds open house

The Vermont State Archives and Records Administration, 1078 Route 2, Middlesex, is hosting an open house on Thursday, Oct. 27, 5-7 p.m., to educate the public about how the state handles public records.

Take a behind-the-scenes tour, talk to staff and view a new exhibit, “Getting the Message Out (and In).” The exhibit will feature original public records that focus on government communication: how the state government conveys information the public needs to know, how the public interacts with the government, and how the state markets itself outside of Vermont.

Craft show benefits Williston schools

Williston Central School hosts a craft show on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Crafters and vendors come from all over Vermont to partic ipate in this long running show that raises money for the Williston schools. The event started over 25 years ago and has grown to comprise more than 100 crafters and artists.

Sponsored by Families as Part ners, Williston’s version of a PTO, the craft show is one of sever

Bishop ordains seven permanent deacons

Bishop Christopher J. Coyne ordained seven men to serve as permanent deacons in Vermont at a special morning Mass Oct. 8 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Burling ton.

The men were Bob Begley of Holy Angels and Immaculate Conception parishes in St. Albans; RJ Dourney of Holy Family Parish in Springfield and Chester; Patrick Leduc of St. John Vian ney Parish in South Burlington; Thomas Lovett of Corpus Chris

Charity Sale

Saturday, October 22nd

25OFF %

ti Parish based in St. Johnsbury; John Magnier of St. Catherine of Sienna Parish in Shelburne; Josh McDonald of St. John Vianney Parish in South Burlington; and Chris Noble of St. Anthony and St. Francis of Assisi parishes in White River Junction and Windsor.

“Today has been a blessing to see so many people come together in our faith,” Leduc said after the Mass. “It renews my hope that the faithful are strong.”

Deacons exercise service to

the church and to people of God through a three-fold ministry: word, liturgy and charity.

As ministers of the word, deacons serve as evangelizers and teachers. As ministers of the litur gy, they assist not only the priest at the altar but also the gathered assembly throughout the liturgy.

Deacons may preside at other liturgical functions such as baptisms, weddings, funerals, Benediction of the Blessed Sacra ment, Sunday celebrations in the

absence of a priest and bringing communion to the sick and home bound.

As ministers of charity, a deacon brings the ministry and presence of the Catholic Church to those who need it.

The new deacons are involved in numerous activities including a hot meal program, respect life ministry, Knights of Columbus, education, visits to the elderly, social justice and social ministry and parish life.

Donate $15 to the VT Foodbank on Saturday at Lenny’s and save 25% storewide during Lenny’s Annual Charity Sale on October 22nd

Discount in store on in-stock, regular priced items only, can’t be applied to prior sales. Exclusions apply including

Exclusive Darn Tough & Skida items, Yeti, Sitka & Gun Safes.

Barre, Williston, St. Albans, Plattsburgh M-F 10-6, Sat 10-5 LennyShoe.com Still Family. Still Local.

COURTESY PHOTO

Burlington Catholic Bishop Christopher J. Coyne stands in the sanctuary of St. Joseph Cathedral with the newly ordained permanent deacons.

footballers remain undefeated

LAUREN READ CORRESPONDENT

Football

Champlain Valley 28, Essex 21: Champlain Valley held off a furious push from Essex to win Saturday and remain unbeaten in Vermont high school play.

Ollie Cheer had a touchdown pass and returned a kick for a TD to help pace the Redhawks, who jumped out to a 21-0 lead at half time. Cheer also added two inter ceptions on the defensive side of the ball.

Max Destito had two touch down passes, while Calvin Steele had a 21-yard TD catch and Jack Sumner caught two passes for touchdowns.

After the win, CVU moved to 6-0.

Cross country

The Champlain Valley cross country teams swept the NVAC Metro Division championships on Saturday, Oct. 15, each team plac ing multiple runners in the top 10 to grab the top spots.

Matthew Servin was the top individual finisher in the boys’ race, coming in first, with Jack Crum following in second. Dan Knight came in fifth, Owen Deale was eighth and Oliver King came in 10th.

Alice Kredell was the top finish er for the Redhawks girls, coming in second. Estella Laird was third, Amelie Scharf was fifth and Char lotte Crum came in sixth place.

Ava Rohrbaugh was seventh, Lydia Donahue finished in eighth place and Audrey Neilson rounded out the top 10 in 10th.

Golf

The Champlain Valley boys golf team came in second overall at Division I state championship

at Orleans Country Club on Thurs day, Oct. 13, coming in just four strokes behind the eventual state champs.

The Redhawks finished with a team score of 324, behind DI winner Burr and Burton, which had a 320. Bryce Bortnick was the top golfer for CVU, coming in second

with a 76. Jack Bryan was tied for sixth with a score of 80.

Girls’ soccer

Champlain Valley 3, Essex 2 (OT): Zoe Klein found the back of the next in the second over time period to lift Champlain Valley over Essex in girls’ soccer

Saturday.

Lily Williams and Chloe Pecor also scored for the Redhawks (10-0-1), while Ava Barron assist ed on the game-winning goal.

Emma Allaire stopped four shots in goal.

Field hockey

Champlain Valley 1, Essex 0: Carly Strobeck scored with under three minutes remaining in regu lation to lift the Champlain Valley field hockey to a win over Essex on Monday, Oct. 17.

Grace Ferguson stopped two shots for the shutout in goal for the Redhawks, who moved to 10-2 with the win.

CVU also beat Rutland Friday, Oct. 14, beating the Raiders 5-0.

Miranda Oppenheimer and Emily Gay each had two goals, Emma Kim added a goal and Tess Everett chipped in with an assist.

Boys’ soccer

Champlain Valley 2, Mount Mansfield 0: The boys won their ninth game in a row, beating Mount Mansfield Saturday.

Zach Spitznagle and Chan dler Turner (one assist) each had a goal for the Redhawks, while Eli Marden added a helper.

Evan Statton had one save in goal in the shutout.

PHOTO BY AL FREY

CVU volleyball teammates Shelby Companion, Shannon Kennelly, Chloe Boliba, Eliza Konowitz, Grace Wells and Madeline Bunting get ready before a game against Enosburg Oct. 13.

from

al fundraising events to support students in the school system.

Free STEM Showcase 3.0 returns to UVM campus

STEM Showcase 3.0 will be held Saturday, Nov. 5, in Burl ington, and features a morning of hands-on learning activities for kids ages 8 to 14.

Registration is required by Nov. 3 for this free event, which will take place on the University of Vermont campus from 10 a.m.noon.

Each participant may choose two of the six workshops that all focus on science, technology, engi neering and mathematics topics.

Options include the Hurri cane-Proof House Challenge

(environmental and civil engi neering); Let’s Make Robots Go (LEGO robotics and coding); Engineering Helping Hands (biomedical building challenge); What is Nanotechnology: Getting Patients the Medicine They Need (biomedical engineering); A Berry Cool DNA Extraction (DNA

Why not have a job you love?

Positions include a sign on bonus, strong benefits package and the opportunity to work at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont”.

Budget Input Survey

Take the survey to give the Selectboard feedback on some ideas for addressing priority budget areas.

science); and Discover the Natural World Through Microscopes.

Budget Input Survey

Scan the QR code with your smartphone or find the survey link at www.hinesburg.org

To register, go to go.uvm.edu/ stem-showcase.

The program is a collaboration between UVM Extension 4-H and the colleges of agriculture and life sciences and engineering and mathematical sciences.

Will hold a public hearing on the following application during the Development Review Board’s regular meeting of Wednesday, November 9, 2022:

7:05 PM DRB 22-160-SD – Final Plan review for proposed 3-lot subdivision at 125 Lake Rd.

For more information, contact the Planning & Zoning Office at 802.425.3533 ext. 208, or by email at: pza@townofcharlotte.com.

Take the survey to give the Selectboard feedback on some ideas for addressing priority budget areas.

Budget Input Survey

Scan the QR code with your smartphone or find the survey link at www.hinesburg.org

Take the survey to give the Selectboard feedback on some for addressing priority budget areas. Scan the QR code with your smartphone or find the survey www.hinesburg.org

Service Coordinator: Continue your career in human services in a supportive environment by providing case management for individuals either for our Adult Family Care program or our Developmental Services program. The ideal candidate will have strong clinical, organizational & leadership skills and enjoy working in a team-oriented position. $47,000 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Residential Program Manager: Coordinate staffed residential and community supports for an individual in their home. The ideal candidate will enjoy working in a team-oriented position, have strong clinical skills, and demonstrated leadership. $45,900 annual salary, $1,500 sign on bonus.

Direct Support Professional: Provide 1:1 supports to help individuals reach their goals in a variety of settings. This is a great position to start or continue your career in human services. Full and part time positions available starting at $19/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Residential Direct Support Professional: Provide supports to an individual in their home and in the community in 24h shifts including asleep overnights in a private, furnished bedroom. You can work two days, receive full benefits and have five days off each week! Other flexible schedules available, starting wage is $20/hr, $1,000 sign on bonus.

Shared Living Provider: Move into someone’s home or have someone live with you to provide residential supports. There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household. Salary varies dependent on individual care requirements. $1,000 sign on bonus.

Join our dedicated team and together we’ll build a community where everyone participates and belongs https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

Make a career making a difference and join our team today!

https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/

howardcenter.org 802-488-6946 howardcenter.org

Appraising & Buying

Sports Card Collections

Hyper Relic Sports Cards

802-233-1451

ARIES

March 21 - April 20

Aries, maintain your alignment with your dreams and tap into your warrior instinct if you come up against a signi cant obstacle later in the week.

TAURUS

April 21 - May 21

Taurus, you’re naturally good at juggling many different tasks simultaneously. Don’t be surprised if someone recognizes this and give you a few projects to handle.

GEMINI

May 22 - June 21

The theme of this week is “opposites” for you, Gemini.

If you’re a normally tidy person, you’ll leave a mess behind. If you are prompt, you will arrive late. It could be refreshing.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

This week there will be a great deal of pressure on you, Cancer. Try to remain as calm as possible while ticking off the boxes on your to-do list. Ask for help if you need it.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 23

Your leadership skills will be on display this week, Leo.

People at work and at home will call on you to make decisions and guide them ithrough various situations.

VIRGO

Aug. 24 - Sept. 22

Virgo, this week you could come up with a new plan to make a big difference in the world. It may start with an assignment at work or be inspired by volunteering.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Libra, try to learn as much about the people around you as possible. They may share strategies that can affect your life in many positive ways. Start asking the right questions.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 22

You may need to brush up on your charm skills, Scorpio. Sometimes you come at people at full force. You could bene t from employing a more slow and stready approach.

SUDOKU

Here’s How It Works:

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must ll each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can gure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 23 - Dec. 21

Sometimes you can be naturally shy and quiet, Sagittarius. This week show others what lies beneath that quiet surface. Use your voice and get others excited about your thoughts.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 20

Try not to hide in the shadows this week, Capricorn. This is your time to be in the spotlight and show others what you are made of. A spark will inspire you to act.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 21 - Feb. 18

Getting back into the swing of things after time away can take a little while, Aquarius. You may have forgotten some steps or feel out of practice. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

You’re used to dealing with situations as they arise, Pisces. Plan ahead for what you anticipate will come along this week.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS