Issuu

Feed me

Book bans

Snowfall marks return to bird feeding season

Zuckerman leads tour on growing trend

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Volume 52 Number 49

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December 7, 2023

CVSD questions BLM flag COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER

He’d never stop working with cheese. “From the perspective of a cheesemaker I would say it was much more exciting and interesting to work with milk that way and be part of that operation,” he said. Since 1980, Shelburne Farms has made an artisanal cheddar. Every day beginning at 8 a.m., the cheesemakers turn fresh milk into raw milk cheddar using just four ingredients: the milk from the pasture-raised herd of Brown Swiss cows, starter culture, rennet and salt. Knowing the farmer behind the dairy

School board members with the Champlain Valley School District are questioning whether to keep a Black Lives Matter flag raised at its schools and instead raise an “original CVSD inclusive flag.” Since the summer of 2020 — in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis — each of the district’s schools in Williston, Hinesburg, Charlotte and Shelburne have kept a Black Lives Matter flag raised to show “support and love for our Black students and caregivers and employees,” board chair Angela Arsenault, of Williston, said. The district at the time received a signed letter from dozens of employees in the district asking the board to raise the flag at all schools. When the board voted to raise BLM flags, “we knew that we were lifting up support for one specific marginalized community with very good reason,” Arsensault said. “Has much changed as a result of that racial reckoning? I would argue not really,” she said. “So, the circumstances under which the flags were raised remain. We want to continue to show support and love for our Black students and caregivers and employees.” Since the flag’s raising, however, the district “knew that we did not know how or when or why we would ever then take those flags down,” Arsenault said. “I think this is one idea ... that we might pursue in order to lift up that same community as well as others at the same time.” But, she added, it is “something that that needs to be addressed with great care, and through an inclusive process.” While Arsenault noted the suggestion was raised earlier this year in smaller committee conversations, recent public

See SHELBURNE FARMS on page 10

See FLAG on page 13

PHOTO BY LIBERTY DARR

Sam Dixon, Shelburne Farms’ dairy manager since 1996, gives a loving pat to one of the cows in the farm’s Brown Swiss herd, Ally Jean, one of the few cows that recognizes her name and Dixon’s call.

Family legacy thrives at Shelburne Farms LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER

Shelburne Farms holds a special place in the hearts of many, but for the Dixon family, the farm has been an integral part of the family’s legacy for two generations. The story begins over four decades ago in Dummerston with two brothers, Peter and Sam Dixon, whose knack for craftsmanship and love for cows coalesced under a small family-owned business specializing in artisan cheesemaking. “It was funny because Sam liked to milk the cows and I would help my mom make cheese in the kitchen,” Peter said. “The

commercial cheesemaking began in 1983 when my family started a cheese business on our dairy farm that was called the Guilford Cheese Company.” The family business was relatively short-lived and in 1991 Peter attended the University of Vermont to pursue a degree in dairy food science where he quickly learned about Shelburne Farms. He took a job as the farm’s first assistant cheesemaker and discovered that the farm’s raw milk cheddar operation was much different than the pasteurized milk operation he mastered on his family’s farm. Nonetheless, the work was fulfilling and confirmed something he already knew deep down:

Page 2 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

Champlain school district projects nearly 10% increase

SHOP - SIP - DINE

GET INTO THE LITTLE CITY SPIRIT! Magic On Main Wednesday, Dec. 13 Can’t fit it all into the day? Make it a night out in Vergennes as the shops keep their lights on until 8:00 pm. Special activities, holiday cheer, make your list, check it twice and head straight to Vergennes! Wrap it up at Rockers! Make your downtown purchases and bring them to Rockers Pizzeria. We’ll wrap your gifts for FREE, courtesy of Vergennes Partnership.

Gift List Got You Puzzled? A 500-piece Little City puzzle will please any lover of Vergennes! Replicated from the mural inside One Credit Union, Erin Daigle’s artwork depicts a bird’s eye view of Green Street and a bit beyond. Available for sale at One Credit Union (48 Green Street), at just $25, proceeds benefit Vergennes Partnership.

COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER

The Champlain Valley School District’s spending for fiscal year 2025 will increase by nearly 10 percent, according to preliminary budget projections for the 202425 school year. The 9.9 percent increase brings the district’s projected expenditures to just over $105 million. The spending increase, district officials say, is driven primarily by contractually negotiated increases and a nearly 20 percent increase in health insurance. Gary Marckres, the district’s chief operations officer, said that an increase to health insurance came in at 16.4 percent. Officials originally estimated those costs would increase by 10 percent. The district’s fiscal year 2024

budget, which totaled just over $96 million, was at the time a 7.5 percent increase in expenditures from the previous fiscal year, driven by similar factors like salary increase obligations and health insurance costs. “Every year I’m struck by how little actual wiggle room there is in our budget,” school board chair Angela Arsenault said. “These are contractual obligations that are really driving the increase.” While the district’s budget is months away from being finalized — the district still needs revenue projections and its final weighted student count from the state — officials are feeling pressure to tighten spending with the impending effects of Act 127, a new education formula signed into law last year that adjusted the state’s education funding formula.

The new law is expected to have a major impact on districts like Champlain Valley, as well as South Burlington and the Mount Mansfield Unified School District, among others. The legislation allows for a 5 percent cap in tax rate increases from fiscal years 2025 through 2029. Because of this, the Champlain Valley School District this year will require offsetting reductions for any new proposed expenses. The end of federal COVID-19 relief funds, meanwhile, means that the district will have to try and absorb some of the 15 positions “that the administration, principals and directors’ thought were critical to keep and make a recommendation of what we could retain as an addition to the See BUDGET on page 13

Hinesburg students find gun, drugs Brooklyn man arrested; police, school offer conflicting timelines COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER

Still Undecided? Go Green! Vergennes Green Gift Certificates are available in various denominations at One Credit Union — this just might be your one-size-fits-all solution. Accepted at over 50 businesses — from shops to services and dining — up, down and all around Main Street, Vergennes. Keep it local this holiday season with the gift of Vergennes Green. Info: www.VergennesDowntown.org.

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Hinesburg Community School students found a gun and bags of drugs outside of the school on Friday following a motor vehicle crash and a police chase the night before, according to police. At around 10 a.m. on Friday, a student outside of the school at recess discovered a handgun near the school’s playground and brought it to a teacher, school officials said. Hinesburg Community School employees brought students inside and called police. Police canvassed the area and school officials turned over a .22

caliber Phoenix Arms handgun. “School counselors and Howard (Center) clinicians will be available to provide support,” Hinesburg Community School co-principals Suzan Locke and Tim Trevithick said in a letter sent to families on Sunday. “As with any incident in our district, we will do a formal review of our practices, policies, and expectations.” They said in their letter that school employees “notified the family” of the student who found the weapon “and supported the student and family.” While an investigation is still underway, police have suggested the gun and drugs were tied to an incident the previous night. Just

before 11 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30, police arrested Jermaine Rushing, 26, of Brooklyn, N.Y., for driving under the influence, excessive speed, negligent operation and leaving the scene of an accident. Rushing, police said, was speeding down Route 116 and led police on a brief chase before crashing into a tree at the intersection of Route 116 and Silver Street. He fled the scene and wandered around the area, at one point trying to enter a home near Orchard Hill and Friendship Lane, police said in a timeline of the incident, before finding him and taking him into See GUN on page 11

Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 3 PASTURE RAISED, QUALITY AMERICAN WAGYU & ANGUS BEEF FROM 4TH GENERATION VERMONT FARMERS

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With recent snowfall, state wildlife officials say it’s time to feed the birds again.

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Snow marks return to bird feeding “Winter bird feeding is a great way to observe and learn about our year-round bird residents such as black capped chickadees, nuthatches and blue jays. It’s also a great time to learn about winter visitors such as evening and pine grosbeaks,” Jillian Kilborn, Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s bird project leader, said. Kilborn offers some basic bird feeding tips: • Make your own feeding mixture to maximize the number of species visiting your yard. Black oil sunflower seed is a favorite of many birds, but when mixed with thistle (nyjer) or cracked corn you will be sure to attract a wide variety of species. Don’t forget the suet to attract woodpeckers and even chickadees. • Mix up the type of feeders you use. Hopper feeders are great for large birds such as blue jays, while tube feeders are best for smaller birds. Elevated tray feeders will attract birds that usually feed on the ground including juncos and larger bodied winter visitors such as evening grosbeaks. • Place your feeders near natural habitat, or even add a habitat for birds to hide. A Christmas tree is a great addition to a snowbank next to your feeder to provide quick cover. • Keep your feeders clean. Only put out enough food for a day, and wash feeders every couple of weeks in a 10 percent bleach solution and let dry to prevent the

spread of bacteria and disease. If you decide to feed birds, remember: • Feeding can expose birds to hazards they might otherwise avoid. The risks of predation are higher close to people, especially from domestic cats — the leading cause of bird deaths in North America. Keep cats inside and take feeders down if predators become frequent visitors. • Don’t feed birds when bears are active. Most bears are in dens from Dec. 1 to April 1, but some will delay hibernation or re-emerge to feed during periods of warmer weather. Remove bird feeders immediately if you see signs of bears or know a bear is active in your community. Bears that learn

to associate food with a house will continue to return, potentially leading to property damage and dangerous encounters with people. Further, it is illegal to feed bears in Vermont. • Once you’ve started feeding the birds, keep your feeders stocked. Although wild birds are not entirely dependent on bird feeders, they can become accustomed to this easy food source. If you wish to stop feeding during winter months, gradually taper off the amount of food you provide rather than stopping abruptly, giving the birds a chance to find other food sources. This is especially important when food is scarce in late winter or during periods of extreme weather.

Corrections

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We used the wrong photo of Rachel Malone with our story last week, “Scott appoints five new judges to fill state Superior Court vacancies.” Here is the correct photo. The menorah lighting on the Shelburne town green is at 5:30 p.m., not 5 p.m., on Monday, Dec. 11. The holiday bazaar at Trinity Episcopal Church in Shelburne will be held only on Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-3

Rachel Malone

p.m., and not also on Sunday as reported last week.

SUNDAY - WEDNESDAY 10-6 | THURSDAY - SATURDAY 10-7 THE ESSEX EXPERIENCE 21 ESSEX WAY SUITE 415 ESSEX VT 802.764.0758 | @NUSANTARA_ESSEX

Page 4 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

Shelburne Police Blotter: Nov. 27 - Dec. 3

COME STOP BY THE STUDIO ANY TIME M - F 9 AM - 4 PM

DEC

9th

10AM - 4PM

NG PPI D DEC SHO ADDE H Y T I A W ! LID HO IMENT R R ME

22nd

9AM - 6PM

WESTON DESIGN 3762 SHELBURNE RD • SUITE 5 SHELBURNE, VT 05482

Wishing All A Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Total reported incidents: 55 Traffic stops: 7 Warnings: 7 Medical emergencies: 21 Suspicious incidents: 9 Agency assists: 1 Welfare check: 2 Motor vehicle complaints: 1 Automobile incidents: 3 Car crash: 3 Animal problem: 2 Harassment: 1 Alarms: 1 False alarms: 2 Pending investigations: 2 Nov. 27 at 8:40 a.m., a one-car crash from earlier in the day on Spear Street was reported to police.

Nov. 28 at 12:19 a.m., Shelburne assisted South Burlington police with an individual creating a disturbance at convenience store. Nov. 28 at 3:16 a.m., a caller from Shelburne Road reported being threatened by another individual. Police are investigating. Nov. 30 at 8:29 a.m., police responded to a reported dispute between contractors working at a residential construction site on Spear Street and assisted in mediating. Nov. 30 at 12:12 p.m., a woman at the Quality Inn told police she was being harassed by a man in a neighboring room. Police are

investigating. Dec. 1 at 4:36 p.m., a two-car crash was reported on Shelburne Road. A driver reported some injuries but declined to go to the hospital. Dec. 1 at 4:46 p.m., another two-car crash was reported on Shelburne Road and Graham Way with no injuries. Dec. 3 at 6:43 a.m., police responded to a reported verbal dispute between guests at the Countryside Motel. Note: Charges filed by police are subject to review by the Chittenden County State’s Attorney Office and can be amended or dropped.

Winter Safety Tips

OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, AND MONDAY, DECEMBER 31, FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

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How to Detect a Gas Leak

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Sight: You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust. You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying. Sound: You may hear an unusual noise like a roaring, hissing, or whistling.

Protect Meters and Vents from Ice and Snow Don’t push or pile deep snow around meters and ensure whoever removes snow from your property knows meter and appliance vent locations. Use extreme caution when clearing snow and large icicles near meters and vents. If your meter gets encased in thick ice, please call us.

If you suspect a leak: Move immediately to a safe location. Call VGS at 800-639-8081 or call 911 with the exact location. Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might result in a dangerous condition. Do not assume someone else will report the condition.

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Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 5

Irish Hill sidewalk, bridge project reaches $1 million Town will pursue grant to cover additional costs LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER

A new Irish Hill sidewalk and Falls Road pedestrian bridge is going to cost more than orginally thought. The Shelburne Selectboard officially awarded the bid Tuesday. The project received three bids, which all exceeded $1 million — significantly higher than the $750,000 projected budget. Town manager Matt Lawless said most of the rising costs were due to the cost of labor and an unexpected $132,000 increase for the prefabricated cyclist bridge over the LaPlatte River portion of the project. “The steel is up, the welders are getting paid more, and prefab bridges cost more than they used to,” he said. “Another big driver is the traffic control flaggers are getting paid more.” This isn’t the first time the bridge has met a bump in the road. Last year when costs skyrocketed by nearly $400,000, the selectboard mulled scrapping the project altogether. “Nobody went into this thinking it would be this costly,” former selectboard member Kate Lalley told The Shelburne News last year. “We unwittingly signed up to build the Brooklyn Bridge.” Since then, the planned $750,000 project has been

supported by a mix of state town is applying for an addibike-pedestrian grants, a separate tional Transportation Alternative state grant from the Transporta- Grant totaling $278,000 with a tion Alternatives Program, a local 20 percent local match available cash match, and a voter-approved from the town’s America Rescue $168,000. Plan Act funds. Although the selectboard ultiThe consequence of this applimately voted Tuesday to approve cation, however, may be to delay the construction contract totaling other projects in the long queue $1,071,851, the decision to move of bike and pedestrian projects in forward wasn’t unanimous. Matt town. Wormser voted against moving “This $70,000 takes an unforforward. tunate chunk out of the ARPA “From my standpoint, we’re money that we’ve anticipated for talking about bike and pedes100 feet of road trian projects “Nobody went into or less,” he said, by having to noting that when this thinking it would complete an old voters gave their one instead of approval project pushing ahead be this costly. We costs were estion new ones,” mated at around Lawless said. unwittingly signed $400,000. “What “Of course, I can we do for a would prefer to up to build the million bucks in put this money terms of extendahead to other Brooklyn Bridge.” ing paths elsegateway projwhere?” — Kate Lalley ects in town, Other selectbut I think it’s board members referred to this important to finish what we’ve project as the “grandfather” of all started.” other bike and pedestrian projIf the new grant funding round ects, citing its origin in 2009. fails, the town will be on the hook “This was the thing that for the remaining $350,000. brought this watershed moment,” “We’re committing to a $1.07 said member Cate Cross, adding million project,” Lawless said. that the delay is mostly represen- “If that application were to fail, tative of previous town misman- we would have to cover that out agement. “To complete it will be of reserves, which we can do. really satisfying.” We can complete this but it’s an To close the funding gap, the unfortunate hit.”

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Page 6 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

OPINION A vocal few responsible for national book bans Guest Perspective David Zuckerman In high school, I recall reading a profoundly moving book about a formerly enslaved family who is haunted by what they believe to be the ghost of their dead child. It was a Pulitzer Prize-winning book that engaged in many difficult topics — slavery and race relations, sexual assault, violence — but for me, it put into perspective the brutal realities of the lives that enslaved and emancipated people lived. This book, “Beloved” by Toni Morrison, has also been the subject of dozens of challenges and bans around the country. Over the past few years in the U.S., we’ve seen a massive proliferation in the number of challenges and bans on books. According to data from the American Library Association, a record 2,571 unique titles were targeted for censorship in 2022, a 38 percent increase from the previous year, and 2023 is already on track to beat that record. These bans and challenges overwhelmingly target books about race and racism, books that have LGBTQ characters, books about difficult topics such as grief and death, books that contain any violent or sexual themes and books by people of color and LGBTQ authors. Last winter, I spoke with a friend about how disturbing it was to watch this rise in censorship and book bans around the country. Controlling what people can and cannot read or learn about by removing their access to certain materials is contrary to these beliefs. What’s even more disturbing to me is that this national trend seems to be the result of a relatively small group

of people, with an agenda, who do not represent the opinion of the majority of Americans or Vermonters. In the 2021-2022 school year, just 11 adults were responsible for approximately 60 percent of all challenges nationwide. Meanwhile, a large majority of voters oppose efforts to have books removed from their public schools and libraries. Because of this, I decided to host the Banned Books are Books Worth Reading tour this summer and fall. Over the past few months, I have been to over a dozen communities and spoken with hundreds of Vermonters about their thoughts on book bans. Many impassioned people came to share their support for free speech and to tell stories about the important things they learned from challenged and banned books. Of course, not everyone who has come to these events has been on the same page. I welcomed people with differing views in civil discussion. Of course, we are not a free society if people are not allowed to have differing opinions. I would like to express appreciation that we were able to have public conversations regarding difficult topics without the yelling and intimidation — from any side — that we have sometimes seen in other settings across the country. However, it was clear that a vast majority of Vermonters agree that we should continue to allow public libraries and schools, with their trained professionals, to maintain their collections free from governmental restrictions. It was also clear that parents should, and do, have the right to ask for different books for their children if they wish.

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Thankfully, while this trend of a few parents censoring what other families have access to in public schools and libraries has taken off around the country, we haven’t yet seen it succeed in Vermont. Although public schools and libraries in our state have not seen well organized efforts to ban books, I have heard from dozens of librarians, teachers and bookstore workers that there has been increasing pressure from some groups and individuals to restrict access to, or remove, certain books from their shelves. In pockets of Vermont, we’ve also seen some school board candidates run on platforms that include censorship of certain books and materials from classrooms and school libraries. We are not immune from

these national trends that are developing due to misinformation that is repeated on some news sources. It’s been extraordinary to see Vermonters’ passion for free speech, and against the path towards authoritarianism, these past few months. If you agree that access to history and diversity in our libraries and schools is important, I hope that you will go out and support your local bookstores and libraries and consider serving on local boards. If you have any questions or would like any more information on banned books, you can always feel free to contact my office. David Zuckerman is lieutenant governor of Vermont.

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Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 7

Letters to the Editor Cross won’t seek re-election to selectboard To the Editor: It is with gratitude that I share that I will not be running for re-election to Shelburne Selectboard this coming term. It has been a rewarding three years of service, but I feel as though my energy is needed in other parts of my life now. I thank you community voters for this opportunity and look forward to serving out the remainder of my term through March at town meeting.

There certainly has been a lot accomplished during my tenure: a diversity, equity and inclusion committee was created and is active, repairing our relationship with the Champlain Housing Trust relationship and collaborating on housing issues, hiring a new town manager, resolving issues at the police department, passing a local option tax, creating and enacting a fair and impartial policing policy and so much more. It is my hope that someone new will bring fresh ideas, different lived experience and youthful

energy to the board in this open seat. Petitions to get on the ballot can be obtained online or at the town clerk’s office. Petitions must be turned in with valid signatures from at least five percent of Shelburne voters, no later than Jan. 29 at 5 p.m. I look forward to continuing to serve the community in other ways after my term on selectboard ends. Cate Cross Vice chair Shelburne Selectboard

Scott administration MIA on housing Guest Perspective Rep. Tiffany Bluemle In a recent op-ed, Scott administration officials pledged to lead on housing in the upcoming legislative session and characterized the Legislature as having “nibbled around the edges” of the issue and being fearful of new ideas. While House Democrats welcome this commitment to addressing Vermont’s housing needs, it is frankly overdue. As January is right around the corner, it is important to clarify what real leadership on housing looks like — and what it does not. In the late 1980s, during circumstances not unlike those today, when population growth and development were sending property values soaring past the means of average Vermonters, the Legislature instituted the property transfer tax, half of which was intended to support affordable housing and land conservation. By statute, housing built through the tax is to remain “permanently affordable” from one owner to the next to preserve the value of the state’s investment. Vermont’s vision and commitment to housing was bold and pioneering; indeed, it has influenced housing policy nationally and abroad ever since. The additional magic of the property transfer tax, if fully realized, is that every dollar appropriated from the transfer tax to housing has historically attracted an additional $2 of outside investment, making it the best and highest use of our tax dollars. By not using this money for the purposes stated in statute, we have shortchanged low-income Vermonters who have desperately needed housing. This was avoidable. Yet, every year since he took office, Scott’s budget has recommended significant reductions to affordable housing

and conservation’s share of the property transfer tax — last year by two-thirds. The Legislature doesn’t fear bold policy. Indeed, it has embraced a full range of new housing initiatives in recent years such as a program to rehabilitate rentals that are offline or not up to code, development subsidies to create missing middle housing and grants for first-generation homebuyers. What the General Assembly has opposed is funding such initiatives at the expense of projects that will produce perpetually affordable housing for low-income residents of our state. Each year, the Legislature has found a way to do both. Twice we have passed legislation to create a rental registry to develop an accurate picture of the scope of Vermont’s rental housing stock. The governor vetoed the first bill and threatened to veto the second unless the registry was stripped out. Finally, the administration has repeatedly failed to develop a long-term plan for Vermont’s homeless citizens. From the outset of the pandemic the Legislature asked the administration to develop a plan for sheltering Vermonters housed in motels. Year after year, we received no such plan. The Legislature called upon the governor to negotiate lower rates with motels to stretch out federal money; he said he could not. Last January, the governor presented a budget that made no provision for sheltering Vermonters without housing beyond March 2023; extending vouchers beyond that deadline necessitated legislative action. The Legislature’s approach to housing is anything but hesitant. The final fiscal year 2024 budget authorized an historic investment of $159 million in housing-related initiatives. We passed a series of permitting and zoning reforms that raise the threshold to trigger an Act 250 review in designated

areas and require towns to allow duplexes to be built in areas zoned for single family homes. In anticipation of the coming session, committees have teed up bills to help keep people in their homes by offering assistance in paying off rental arrears, boosting rental subsidies and reducing the number and impact of evictions through an out-of-court diversion pilot modeled on successful programs in other states. Since 2019, with the help of federal COVID-19-relief funding, the Legislature has invested nearly $1 billion to build, house and expand supportive services to Vermonters in all 14 counties, including over $170 million in direct payments to property owners and landlords to maintain tenancies. In many cases, we’ve worked together with the Scott administration to advance these policies. Other times, we’ve had to overcome the governor’s opposition — including his June 2023 veto of the state budget, which included critical, time-sensitive funding for this work. Like many states across the country, Vermont is facing a housing crisis that’s been decades in the making. There’s no simple solution: addressing it will require innovative programs and policies, hard conversations about land use and NIMBYism, and a sustained, substantial investment. House Democrats have been — and remain — fully committed to this work. This January, we look forward to working with the administration to invest the time and resources needed to deliver the housing and supportive services that Vermonters deserve. Rep. Tiffany Bluemle focuses on housing funding and policy as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations. Prior to being elected to the House, she served as director of Change the Story VT and as executive director of Vermont Works for Women.

Holiday Bazaar Saturday • December 9 10-3 Ornaments Crafts Gifts Attic Treasures Decor Cookies Pies Raffle Children’s Corner Trinity Episcopal Church Route 7 • Shelburne Road • Shelburne

Page 8 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

COMMUNITY Menorah lighting

Community Notes Solaris Ensemble rejoices with holiday favorites Solaris Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of Dawn Willis, presents “Rejoice!”, a holiday concert featuring choral classics, including Herbert Howells’ Magnificat for mixed voices and organ, Francis Poulenc’s timeless “O Magnum Mysterium,” along with a variety of festive holiday favorites. Evolution Brass Quintet joins the ensemble as guest artists. Concerts will be held Saturday, Dec. 16, 7:30-9:30 p.m., College Street Congregational Church, 265 College St., Burlington; and Sunday, Dec. 17, 3-5 p.m., at Waterbury Congregational Church, 8 North Main St. Tickets are $20. More at solarisensemble.org.

‘A Christmas Chaos’ spoofs Dicken’s classic

COURTESY PHOTO

Chabad Vermont hosts a menorah lighting on the Shelburne town green, corner of Falls and Shelburne roads, on Monday, Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m., with latkes, doughnuts and fun for all. (Please note the new time)

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Essex Community Players presents “A Christmas Chaos” Friday to Sunday, Dec. 8-10, Memorial Hall, Essex. The comedy is a takeoff on “A Christmas Carol,” and the cast of 16 includes local performers from seven Chittenden County towns. A world-renowned traveling theater company hasn’t arrived as promised to perform its stirring rendition of “A Christmas Carol,” so an intrepid band of hapless actors and technicians must put together their own production in only seven hours. The play focuses on these poor but dedicated thespi-

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ans doing their best while chaos is all around them. This fast-paced, backstage comedy pokes fun at the classic novel and everything that can go wrong with a theatrical production. Local cast members include Ben Certa, Lori Valburn, Valerie Logrippo, all of South Burlington. More at essexplayers.com.

Trinity Episcopal Church holiday bazaar returns After a long and arduous four years, Trinity Episcopal Church in Shelburne, 5171 Shelburne Road, will open its doors wide once again for its traditional holiday bazaar. Everyone is invited on Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and enjoy the colors and music of the holidays, food and handmade crafts. (Please note that the sale will NOT be held on Sunday as noted in the Shelburne News.)

Cookie Walk returns to Hinesburg’s United No time to bake? The United Church in Hinesburg is here to help. On Sunday, Dec. 17, 1-3 p.m., in the parish hall, the cookie walk returns. There will be a large display of cookies from which to make your selections. The church provides a box, plastic glove, some mulled cider and you take a walk See COMMUNITY NOTES on page 9

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Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 9

Time to dig out your ugly sweaters for a good cause Don’t own a ugly sweater with a holiday theme? Well, there’s still time to buy one. The Rotary Club of South Burlington Ugly Sweater Fun Run/ Walk isn’t until Sunday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Fredrick H. Tuttle Middle School in South Burlington. The beneficiaries of this annual fundraiser are the Rotary Club of South Burlington’s local charity initiatives, including the Rotary bandshell at Veterans Park, South Burlington Food Shelf, little libraries in recreation parks, annual distribution of dictionaries to all 4th grade students, as well as many worldwide and national efforts by Rotary International. The Rotary partners in the fun run with the South Burlington Academic Boosters Fund, which supports both students and teach-

Keeping us fed

ers who seek to engage in extended learning opportunities and for the first time this year, Champlain Housing Trust, which supports the people of northwest Vermont and strengthens communities through the development and stewardship of permanently affordable homes and related community assets. So come on out for a day filled with fun and exercise while proudly wearing your tackiest, craziest and ugliest sweaters. Oh, and bring the whole family. Participants enjoy complimentary food and beverages, a snapshot from the photo booth, face painting and a commemorative gift. As always, prizes will be awarded to the ugliest of the ugly sweaters. The entrance fee is $25 for adults, and free for all under 18. To register, visit southburlingtonrotary.org. COURTESY PHOTO

Feeding Chittenden, which provides local families and individuals facing hunger with groceries and nutritious meals, recently received a $1,000 donation from SeaComm. From left, the credit union’s assistant vice president of retail operations and regional manager Yvonne Alterie and Feeding Chittenden associate director Anna McMahon.

COMMUNITY NOTES continued from page 8

among the cookies and selected the ones you one. Cookies will be $10 per pound. There will also be a surprise table with some stocking stuffers for sale as well.

Age Well serves December meal Age Well and St. Catherine’s of Siena Parish in Shelburne are teaming up to provide a meal to go for anyone age 60 and older on Tuesday, Dec. 12. The meal will be available for pick up in the parking lot at 72 Church St. from 11 a.m. until noon and are available for anyone 60 or older. Suggested donation is $5. The menu is stuffed chicken breast with apple cranberry stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, carrots, cranberry sauce, wheat roll, pumpkin bar with white chips

and Craisins and milk. To order a meal contact Kathleen at agewellstcath@gmail.com or 802-503-1107. Deadline to order is Wednesday, Dec. 7. If this is a first-time order, provide your name, address, phone number and date of birth.

Central School market features 60-plus vendors Buy local and come to the Charlotte Central School holiday market on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 408 Hinesburg Road in Charlotte. There will be more than 60 vendors, kid crafts, a silent auction and delicious food. Proceeds help support the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization programs like teacher grants and an emergency fund for school families.

Shelburne Parks & Rec News Crossfit kids Kids can join us right after school to improve general conditioning including a focus on core, strength, agility, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. Based on the principle of movement mechanics, consistency, form and then intensity, this program pushes for quality movement throughout childhood. Consistent mechanics translates to higher sports performance and fewer sports injuries for kids. Research also indicates that exercise is beneficial to cognitive function, which means a consistent

training program will have a positive impact on a child’s academic achievement. Participants of any fitness ability are welcome to join as workouts are adjusted to the individual fitness level in a non-competitive environment. Sign up for one or both sessions. Session A dates: Jan. 4 to Jan. 25; registration deadline Friday, Dec. 29. Session B dates: Feb. 1 to Feb. 22; registration deadline Friday, Jan. 26. Sessions are held on Thursdays, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Fee is $80 per session, for grades five to eight, led by Nick Mead and Shelburne Field House staff.

Page 10 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

SHELBURNE FARMS continued from page 1

operation helps a cheesemaker know exactly the milk they’re starting with, too. Conveniently, the head of dairy operations at the farm is Peter’s brother, Sam, and turns out his love of cows also took him down a similar lifelong path. While not always on a dairy, Sam has an extensive career working on farms — one he said he just “stumbled into.” “I always tell my kids if you just find out what you want to do, then you’ll be successful,” he said, a gleaming smile spreading across his face as he looked out over 120 acres of pasture. After graduating from the University of Vermont with a degree in English — and a few Cs and Ds later, he jokingly noted — he started working at the Foster Brothers Farm in Middlebury, partially knowing that academic work wasn’t where he wanted to land and because they offered free housing. “I didn’t want to go back home for the summer so I thought, ‘Well, I’ll go to work on a farm because they usually have housing,’” he recalled. He noted earnestly that that was when the lightbulb went off. “I realized it was the only thing that I was really interested in doing.” His work at Shelburne Farms began years later in 1996, an opportunity he described as his “dream job.” He’s been overseeing the milk production for the farm’s cheesemaking operations — in addition to doing just about everything else — ever since. August Slater-Dixon — his friends call him “Gus” — followed in the footsteps of his dad and uncle a generation later, also graduating from the University of Vermont. But when the pandemic hit, and life was more uncertain than ever, he thought to himself, “I’ll take this moment to do some skill building. It’d be good to hang out with

PHOTO BY LIBERTY DARR

Sam Dixon sports a wide smile while reminiscing on his years at Shelburne Farms in “his dream job.”

my dad more anyways.” He turned to cheesemaking through an apprenticeship program at Peter’s business, Parish Hill Creamery, and learning from his father, someone he dubs a master at his craft, changed the course of his life. “Talk about skills,” he said. “My dad’s a prime example. So, I went back home

for six months, and I learned how to make cheese, pretty much whole batches from start to finish,” he said. While Gus’ fascination with food and different aspects of farming seemingly runs through his blood, he said in school he gravitated toward learning about the intersection of food production and history and

culture. “It’s important to engage in the practice and the production of something that you’re deeply intellectually interested in, so it’s cool to have that crossover,” he said.

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Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 11

Nonprofits, United Way look to put volunteers to work lies in need. Located on North Winooski Avenue in Burlington, the nonprofit serves hot With the holiday season meals on weekdays from 6:30 underway, many Vermonters a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteering is are asking themselves what sign-up only. If you don’t have the time they can do to give back to their communities. Sonja this year, there are other ways Paulson with United Way to help. The United Way of Northwest Vermont is herding Northwest Vermont, Common volunteers in the Chittenden, Good Vermont and other Grand Isle and Franklin coun- organizations lay out ways to give year-round. Anyone can ties. “Vermonters really care donate money, food or other about each other — there is essentials to local charities and such a large sense of commu- nonprofits around Vermont. According to Common nity, and everyone just wants to be a team and help each Good Vermont, one in seven Vermont workers are other,” Paulson said. She said she’s received employed by nonprofits, and an influx of inquiries asking nonprofits add “$334 million about opportunities to give in federal tax revenues.” Paulson said United Way back. is committed to “Let’s find bringing local something that “Volunteering can people together fits your needs with businessas well as helps help your mental es, policymakout whatever ers and organinonprofit you health and wellzations to help want to work meet commuwith,” she said. being.” nity needs Whether based on areas you’d prefer to — Sonja Paulson served. sell raffle tick“There’s a ets, cook holiday lot more behind dinners or bring kids some holiday cheer, there the scenes work that gets are opportunities everywhere, done,” said Paulson proudly, regarding nonprofits cultivatshe said. Santa might be a little busy ing a space where community this year — that’s why they members’ voices mean more. When approaching the need as many elves possible at the station when the Vermont topic of volunteering, Paulson Children’s Trust Foundation’s said it’s OK to think selfishly Polar Express arrives at the sometimes. “Volunteering can help your Wing building at the bottom of King Street. Volunteers can mental health and well-being,” dress as elves and cheer the said Paulson, “and just kind of help in feeling a better sense of kids on as they ride by. Burlington Dismas House community.” Not only can it help reduce is a community made up of people transitioning from stress, but volunteering can incarceration. The organi- also create a sense of meaning zation provides housing and that people might need around a “family-like” structure, the holiday season. Paulson, according to its website, and an Iowa native, is new to the this season the team there Vermont scene but said she is looking for volunteers to can already sense things are help cook Christmas dinners done a little differently in the and join house residents for a Green Mountains. meal. The relationships creatOlivia Wilson is a reported during times like those are just as important as the dona- er with the Community News Service, a program in which tions, the group says. Feeding Chittenden, found- University of Vermont students ed in 1974, fights against food work with professional editors insecurity in the county by to provide content for local supplying groceries to fami- news outlets at no cost. OLIVIA WILSON COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE

PHOTO BY HOLLY BROUGH

Dairy manager Sam Dixon, his nephew Gus, who is a Shelburne Farms cheesemaker, and Sam’s brother Peter (Gus’s dad), a former cheesemaker at the farms.

SHELBURNE FARMS continued from page 10

The connection to Shelburne Farms was a natural next step, and Gus became one of the farm’s cheesemakers in 2021, the same role his father held nearly a decade before. “My dad always jokes in an, ‘It’s funny because it’s true kind of way,’ that if you want to be a Vermont cheesemaker, you have to make cheddar first, and where better to make cheddar than Shelburne Farms?” he said. The uncle and nephew duo also share a special connection because, every morning like clockwork,

Gus will make his way down to the dairy to do the milk haul, where he is sure to run into Sam. “It’s the same role that we had back at the Guilford Cheese Company. Except the person making the cheese isn’t my brother. It’s my nephew,” Sam said proudly. Peter recalled a moment last summer when he visited Shelburne Farms and once again found himself behind the cheesemaking window, a déjà vu moment except this time as the assistant to his son. “We made cheese together that

day,” said Peter. “It was really exciting for me.” For the trio, cheesemaking and dairy farming is more than just a trade, it is a craft and a bond that has brought so many aspects of their lives closer together, taking the phrase, “Made with love,” to an entirely new level. “Sam ran the farm, and I made the cheese, that’s how it was,” said Peter. “But once I started making cheese and seeing that amazing and sometimes mysterious transformation of milk into this wonderful food, I was hooked.”

ers.” Police returned to the school later that morning after Trevithick, one of the co-principals at the school, said another student found several small baggies in the outdoor classroom area that hadn’t been searched, according to the police. “Chief Cambridge called Principal Trevithick and asked why the officers were originally unable to complete a search,” the police timeline reads. “Trevithick stated that wasn’t exactly how it happened.” Cambridge told the principal to take the kids inside right away, and Trevithick agreed, the chief said. “That probably should have happened earlier,” Cambridge said. “When the officers came back from the search and they said that while they were searching there were kids

outside, I was surprised at that.” Bonnie Birdsall, a spokesperson for the district, disputed Cambridge’s description of the incident, saying that a district letter sent to the community describing the timeline of events was “accurate.” After the children were taken inside, Trevithick met three officers outside of the school. Officers collected 35.3 grams of suspected crack cocaine in the outside classroom, Cambridge said. The investigation is ongoing, the chief said, but said there are “facts and circumstances that lead us to believe” the drugs and gun are connected to Rushing. Hinesburg police have notified the Chittenden County State’s Attorney, using the gun’s serial number to see if the firearm was stolen and see if it was connected to Rushing.

GUN

continued from page 2 custody less than 30 minutes after the crash. The next morning, Hinesburg police officers Andrew Thomas and Nick Labonte arrived on school property after being called about the handgun. Officers notified school staff that there could be a connection between the firearm and the crash. But Labonte reported that a school administrator wouldn’t let police search an outdoor classroom area because a class was in session, according to police Chief Anthony Cambridge. “Officer Labonte voiced concern that the kindergarten class was still outside after a loaded firearm was found,” the chief’s timeline reads. Cambridge said Labonte asked the school administrator, “Can we search where the kids are?” but “she didn’t want to disturb or scare the kindergarten-

Page 12 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

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Matthew Lawless, Town Manager Town of Shelburne PO Box 88 5420 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT 05482 Phone: 802-985-5111 Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development Alex Farrell, Commissioner, VT Department of Housing and Community Development One National Life Drive, Davis Building, 6th Floor Montpelier, VT 05620 802-828-3080 The purpose of this notice is to satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the Town of Shelburne and the State of Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (Agency). Request for Release of Funds On or about December 23, 2023, the Town of Shelburne will submit a request to the Agency to release Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL93-383) and the National Affordable Housing Act as amended; and the Agency will submit a request to HUD to release HOME Investment Partnership Program funds under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act, as amended, to undertake a project known as the Bay Ridge located at 3164 and 3229 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT. The proposed project will replace dated, obsolete motel units used for emergency short term stays with 68 high quality units of new, income restricted permanent rental housing. With 20 units set aside for homeless and at risk households, all of which will be supported by project based rental assistance. Project activities include demolition of four 1960s motel buildings and office building and new construction of two 24 unit multifamily rental buildings on the eastern part of the site. The southern part of the site will consist of up to 27 two and three bedroom for sale townhomes. Buildings D and E will be converted from hotel use to permanent housing. The Bay Ridge project includes one 4.89+/- acre parcel approximately 450 feet of frontage along Shelburne Road. An additional 5.23 +/- acre parcel across the street will be utilized for a solar panel field. The proposed project also includes a stormwater easement. The estimated total cost of the project is approximately $36,644,354 including anticipated amounts of approximately $750,000 in CDBG Funds, approximately $841,704 in HOME funds, approximately $841,704 in HOME-ARP funds, approximately $1,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending, and approximately $1,156,152 in National Housing Trust Funds. In addition, approximately 30 project based vouchers are anticipated. Mitigating factors include the following: Implementation of the approved Corrective Action Plan and Land Use Restriction. Additional lead based paint testing and potential abatement at the renovated buildings as required by state and federal regulations. Asbestos containing materials abatement is also required to be in compliance with state and federal regulations. Use of windows with an STC of 27 or more for adequate noise attenuation in the new buildings. New buildings will be constructed using radon resistant construction methods, and passive radon mitigation systems will be installed and activated, if necessary, based on postconstruction radon tests to ensure compliance with the EPA’s threshold of 4.0 picocuries/liter. Finding of No Significant Impact The Town of Shelburne and the Agency have determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record, which will be made available to the public for review either electronically or by U.S. mail. Please submit your request by U.S. mail to Attn: Matthew Lawless, Town Manager, Town of Shelburne, PO Box 88, 5420 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT 05482

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MITIGATED COMBINED NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS STATE OF VERMONT (continued) or via email at mlawless@shelburnevt.org or by U.S. mail to Environmental Officer, Department of Housing and Community Development, National Life Building, One National Life Drive, Davis Building 6th floor, Montpelier, Vermont 05620 or via email at Grace.Vinson@vermont.gov. All comments received by December 22, 2023 will be considered by the Town of Shelburne and the Agency prior to authorizing the submission of a request for release of funds. Comments must specify which Notice they are addressing—the Finding of No Significant Impact or the Request for the Release of Funds. Environmental Certification The Town of Shelburne is certifying to the Agency that the Town of Shelburne and Matthew Lawless, in his official capacity as Town Manager, and the Agency is certifying to HUD that the Agency and Alex Farrell, in his official capacity as Commissioner of the VT Department of Housing and Community Development, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The Agency’s/HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act and related laws and authorities and allows the Town of Shelburne to use CDBG funds and the Agency to use the HOME funds. Objections to Release of Funds The Agency will accept objections to its approval of the release of funds and acceptance of the Town of Shelburne‘s certification, and HUD will accept objections to its approval of the release of funds and the State’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officers Matthew Lawless/Alex Farrell; (b) the Town/Agency has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by the Agency/HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted via email in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to the Environmental Officer at ACCD Grace.Vinson@vermont.gov for the CDBG funds, or to the HUD Director of Community Planning and Development CPD_COVID-19OEEBOS@hud.gov for the HOME funds. Potential objectors should contact the Agency/ HUD via email to verify the last day of the objection period.

Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 13

FLAG

continued from page 1 comment at recent board meetings has spurred the question. Shelburne resident Nicole Koopman, speaking at an October meeting, questioned how chapters of the Black Lives Matter groups have responded to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. Koopman and others “questioned whether we should endorse a group that might be seen as offending and suppressing another minority within our community,” they said at recent meetings. Since the Oct. 7 attacks and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza strip, some Black Lives Matter chapters have expressed support for both Hamas and civilians under bombardment in

the area. “It stemmed from recent geopolitical activities that have been going out and surrounding Black Lives Matter,” Koopman added. “That’s what kind of stemmed and started it.” The board, after voting to raise the flag in 2020, later enacted a flag policy allowing students or employees to request flags be displayed at school. Most of the school board voted to have the administration come up with alternatives or recommendations on what flag, if any, should be flown at the schools. But board members said they wanted to make sure students’ voices were recognized in the process, so

it’s likely to be the first of many discussions on the subject. “I think before we have the administration make a flag or decide what flag we’re going to fly, we need to have a sense of the climate and the tolerance from our students and staff and everybody,” board member Brendan McMahon of Williston said. “We need a recommendation from the administration of how to move forward.” Hinesburg board member Keith Roberts agreed, saying it was time “to revisit this decision” but noted that he would “like to hear input from our students and our communities.” Board member Barbra Marden

BUDGET

of the flags. “I see where we could get concerns from the community, but it’s something that should be on the table for the board to consider for discussion.” “I am a person of color. I supported the flag going up, but I feel at this time, we need to take a pause,” she said. “That is my ask.”

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continued from page 2 general fund for the fiscal year 2025 budget,” Marckres said. The district’s first pass at its budget does include some added expenses, including a new early education teaching position. District officials are also floating the creation of a new administrative position. The district’s director of digital learning and communication, held by Bonnie Birdsall, would be split into two separate roles. “We determined over the last several years that having a halftime communications coordinator and a half-time director of digital learning really were two jobs, not one job,” Marckres said. “It’s too much for one person, so we’re proposing to add a communications coordinator position.” To offset this and other new expenses, the district pointed to “tech department efficiencies,” a “summer school redesign,” the elimination of the district’s innovation fund, as well as savings from a change in benefits to management contracts. But the offsets also include a reduction of four para education positions within the district, as well as a reduction of two kindergarten positions and three middle school teaching positions due to a lack of enrollment, Marckres said.

of Shelburne — the board’s lone person of color — questioned whether it should be a priority, given the district’s budget work, but did say she felt the Black Lives Matter flag should come down. “I would ask that maybe they come down at this point,” she said

One board member, Keith Roberts of Hinesburg, asked to see “a comparison of our administrative staff to the administrative staff of comparable districts,” before deciding on additions to the administrative staff. “One of the concerns that we had in connection with the consol-

idation of the district, when we heard from our constituents, was the ballooning of administration staff,” he said. “I just want to make sure that we’re still on the right page with the staffing that we have in central office versus student-facing teachers that it looks like you’re reducing.”

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QUARTERLY WATER & SEWER PAYMENT Due Friday, December 15, 2023

The Town of Shelburne is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Payments must be RECEIVED or POSTMARKED by MIDNIGHT, December 15, 2023. Late payments are subject to penalty and interest. Payments can be left in lock box at Police Department Dispatch until Midnight, December 15, 2023. PLEASE NOTE: The Police Department cannot provide any information regarding accounts or receipts for payments.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

If any questions please call 985-5120 Office hours for payment in person are Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Police Department is open 24/7

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TONY BRICE PAINTING, LLC Free Estimates Interior & Exterior

802.777.8771

Scheduling 2023-2024 Interior Painting

TO ALL OF OUR CLIENTS, THANK YOU!

Sheds

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CALL US TODAY!

Siding/Remodeling

Septic

Water

BEAGLE BUILDERS, LLC

— Since 1959 —

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Water Wells Complete Geothermal Systems Water Treatment Pump Sales & Service Aggregate- Gravel & Stone Products Pond Aeration

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120 NORTHGATE PLAZA, SUITE 2 MORRISVILLE 802.888.5722 | MANOSH.COM

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ALL TYPES OF SIDING Vinyl/Wood/Composite

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802-453-4340 CALL US! 802-355-0807

Shelburne News Service Directory It does a BIG job for your business for a little price.

Call 985-3091 for details.

Shelburne News • December 7, 2023 • Page 15

Horoscope December 7, 2023

ANSWERS FROM THIS ISSUE

Weekly Puzzles

Page 16 • December 7, 2023 • Shelburne News

Holiday Sparkle

91 MAIN STREET, STOWE ~ 802.253.3033 ~ FERROJEWELERS.COM ~ STOWE@F ERROJ EWELERS.COM @FERRO_JEWELERS_STOWE ~ FACEBOOK.COM/F ERRO.J EWELERS

I DON’T KNOW... DO WE HAVE STOCKING STUFFERS?

Metal Earth Puzzles from 7.99

Hand Finger Puppets 7.99ea

Fire Starter 7.99ea

Whiskey River Soaps 12.99

Assorted Candies from .19ea

Sparkle Syrup 2oz 9.99

Screen Door Saver Asst. 7.99ea

Music Box Asst. 12.99ea

Duck Soaps asst. 9.99ea

Maven Table Bitters 29.99ea

HOMEP RT