The Other Paper - 02-17-22

Readers’ choice

Go Grossman!

South Burlington residents weigh in on city council picks

South Burlington biathlete heads to Olympics as alternate

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VOLUME 46, NO. 7

School board candidates talk antiracism, COVID All three seats up for grabs uncontested educational research and measurement.

• What book is on your nightAll three candidates for open stand? “Catch 22” by Joseph seats on the South Burlington Heller.

A former South Burlington School Board are running uncontested, so barring an unlikely School District parent whose kids have since gradwrite-in saboteur, uated, Michelle the new school “There’s only so Boyer’s primary board is set. motivation for All three hopemuch the community running for the fuls share similar school board is reasons for wantcan bear in terms of to help recoving to represent er learning lost the city. Surprise, continual (budget) during the corosurprise, recovery navirus pandemfrom the COVIDincreases.” ic.

19 pandemic, in She feels a academics and in — Michelle Boyer sense of urgency mental health, is to support and a priority for all three candidates, as well as anti- plan where federal funds go — that’s something she wants more racism and social equity. transparency on and will push for Michelle Boyer, candidate as a board member. for three-year seat “It’s unclear to me based on AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER

• What is your day job?

Senior research scientist on

See SCHOOL BOARD on page 18

Family keeps green aviation in the Greens AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER

COURTESY PHOTO

Katie and Kyle Clark of Beta Technologies in South Burlington.

A few light thuds echoed from the ceiling of Katie Clark’s office.

Little elephants, she joked, flicking her eyes up where, unseen, her two youngest kids scrambled around the loft over her Beta Technologies office.

The last few years have been a little crazy for the Clarks, the

family at the heart of Beta, one of South Burlington’s fastest-growing companies and a burgeoning pioneer in green aviation.

Last year, the start-up inked a deal with United Parcel Service for new electric aircraft, as part of UPS’s efforts to decrease fossil fuel dependence. The U.S. Air Force awarded Beta See BETA TECH on page 2

Page 2 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

BETA TECH

continued from page 1 the first airworthiness approval for a manned electric aircraft, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund has invested in the sky-bound startup, and Gov. Phil Scott namedropped the company at his State of the State address last month as a “cutting edge employer.”

To accommodate this growth, the company hopes to expand its South Burlington location at the Burlington International Airport by constructing a new 344,000 square foot manufacturing and office building, phase one of a master plan that includes another airplane hangar, a potential area for child care, a pilot training and commercial use building and a solar field, among other plans.

Since 2020, Beta has more than doubled in staffing numbers but just five years ago Beta was a small startup created by Kyle Clark, a Harvard grad, hockey player, aviation nerd and Katie’s other half. Both are homegrown Vermonters; Katie is from Essex, and Kyle grew up in Huntington, Williston and Essex. They met and became friends in middle school, but were destined to date in their early 20s and get married six months later by a justice of the peace at an army navy surplus store in Portland, Maine.

“We have a really hard time I think, coloring within the lines,” Katie Clark said, recalling the early days of Beta, when a “motley crew” of contractors, mostly friends, some guys from hockey, maybe a few cousins, assembled to patch up the airplane hangar and build their first plane.

“It was rough, but it worked and then we grew a little bit and we were able to make it a little bit better and then we grew a little bit more and we were able to make it a little bit better still. I think in a

COURTESY PHOTO

The design for Beta’s ALIA-250 is inspired by the Arctic tern. Its vertical take-off and landing capabilities are a defining characteristic.

lot of ways that’s what we’re still doing,” Clark said. “I don’t know, it’s what Vermonters do, right?”

Clark’s biting charm spilled out as she gushed on working with “the smartest people in the world” and on helping save the planet through sustainability and green transportation.

Transportation, from air travel to cars to trains, is the biggest producer of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 35 percent, as of a 2019 study from the Environmental Protection Agency. The International Council on Clean Transportation projects carbon emissions from commercial flights to triple by 2050, despite efforts to regulate and reduce emissions.

In addition to electric aircraft, Beta is building a charging

network cross-country to better enable electric transportation — all 60 plus stations so far, online or in permitting, will be ready to charge electric vehicles as well as planes.

Interspersed with Clark’s shop talk were jokes poked at her husband and a swear or two.

Maybe three. Recently, she’s had a little more time to reflect amid the persistent coronavirus pandemic, and she’s found herself a little astonished.

“Holy cow, how did this become our life?” Clark asked.

“You know, we’re just entrepreneurs who were born and raised in Vermont and are trying to raise our family here because we love this state, and we love the people in this state, and we love the

community.”

Despite its growth, Beta has firmly remained a Vermont company. Even with flashy offers for more money and more space, the goal has always been to grow jobs and the business at home, Clark said. “Right from day one, it was: We want to grow a business here. That was always a goal and still is a goal.”

Raising four kids in Vermont, Clark said it was important to try to create a place where their kids could grow up, find a lucrative job and stay, not to be forced to move out of state for work or school or housing. Retaining young Vermonters and attracting new families is a struggle the governor has emphasized over the years as Vermont has climbed higher on

the oldest state population list to hit number two, only after Maine.

Two of the Clark kids already caught the aviation bug and are bonafide members of the Beta team: their oldest daughter, who first flew solo on her 16th birthday, is a pilot at Beta, and their son works in the fabrication facility.

Clark has helped spearhead a job shadow program to offer youth at local high schools and tech centers a chance to check out jobs in general aviation, from communications to design to welding and fabrication. Beta has also worked with local college students on projects and is partnered with the Vermont Flight Academy.

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BETA TECH

continued from page 2 As a business neighbor, Clark noted the Beta team is conscious of the added strain that new employees relocating might have on the already crunched housing market. That’s one reason why creating child-care supports is part of Beta’s master plan, in progress with the South Burlington development review board now, and why they’ve explored other housing relocation options to support rather than strain local housing.

For Clark, the planes are secondary to the overall mission, which finds its sweet spot at the matrix of sustainability and community. But Kyle would say the planes are number one, she said: the two of them sort of balance things out.

“Kyle is super passionate about airplanes. Even when we were little kids. I would go to his football game and afterwards we would all go to a party, and I

would invite Kyle, but he would say, ‘No, I have to go home and build a model airplane,’” Clark recalled, laughing.

She hopes that with their electric airplanes, green priorities, and the culture they foster at work, Beta can have an impact beyond South Burlington and Chittenden County.

Her informal mission statement?

“Well, it’s to not be a--holes, it’s to not raise a--holes and it’s to not hire a--holes. If we can do all three of those things, then hopefully we’ll be successful in the community and the world. If we were all not assholes our world would be a way better place,” Clark said. “It’s very cliche but all we want to do as humans is leave this place a little bit better than we found it and if we’ve done that even a little bit here, then it’s pretty cool.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Beta Technologies CEO Kyle Clark works in the hangar at Burlington International Airport.

VOICES OF THE ENVIRONMENT ENDORSES

TIM BARRITT and MEAGHAN EMERY FOR SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL

This election is critically important. If either of Meaghan or Tim’s opponents win, the Council could undo the environmental protections that are in the newly adopted LDRs, and continue the support of developers who want to encourage sprawl and build unaffordable homes in rural areas, miles from the City core. VOTE supports addressing climate change and protecting South Burlington's air, water, wildlife, open space and natural environment, as well as the construction of affordable housing near public transportation, schools, and other municipal services that make living for those on modest incomes truly affordable. If you agree with this vision, vote for MEAGHAN EMERY and TIM BARRITT on March 1 and please visit our website at voices-environment-sb.com or contact VOTE at voices.environment.sb@gmail.com.

Richard Ahern Joanne Aja Janet & Thomas Bellavance Jonathan Bloom David Boedy John Bossange Sarah Brutzmam Donald Catalano Alyson and Andrew Chalnick Ian Chisholm Susan Clark Ann and Barry Cousins Judy Donofrio

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Thomas Hall Higley Harmon Susan Hartman Kathy and Will Hays Debbie Hernberg Jean Hint Sally Howe Thomas Hughes Noah Hyman Molly Joy Rich Joy Dave Kaufman Steven Klein

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Voices Of The Environment (VOTE) is a political action committee dedicated to prioritizing protection of South Burlington’s environment.

Paid for by Voices of the Environment (VOTE) – South Burlington | 150 Dorset St., Suite 245-347, South Burlington, Vermont 05403

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Page 4 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

CRIME & COURTS South Burlington Police Blotter Total incidents: 209 Patrols: 19 Public assists: 17 Alarms: 16 Welfare checks: 15 Mental health issues: 14 Traffic stops: 11 Car crashes (property damage only): 10 Larceny: 7 Retail theft: 6 Incidents: Feb. 6 at 12:23 p.m., police dealt with a traffic hazard near the intersection of Williston Road and Dorset Street.

Feb. 6 at 4:29 p.m., police trespassed someone from Al’s French Frys.

Feb. 7 at 8:30 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop near Patchen Road and White Street.

Feb. 7 at 12:13 p.m., police assisted a motorist near Williston Road and White Street.

Feb. 7 at 5:59 p.m., police responded to Dorset Street for

a reported juvenile runaway.

Feb. 8 at 10:19 a.m., an officer conducted a Project Good Morning check for a resident of Stonington Circle.

Feb. 8 at 4:20 p.m., a case of retail theft was reported at the University Mall.

Feb. 9 at 5:16 a.m., another case of retail theft was reported, this time at the Mobil on Williston Road.

Feb. 9 at 11:50 a.m., police investigated a report of larceny from Dorset Street.

Feb. 10 at 8:41 a.m., police investigated a case of unlawful mischief and vandalism on Dorset Street.

Feb. 10 at 2:40 p.m., police investigated a reported sex offense on Cottage Grove Avenue.

Feb. 11 at 2:07 p.m., police investigated a computer crime at the station.

Feb. 12 at 6:12 a.m., police assisted with a reported mental health issue near the Lime Kiln Road bridge.

Feb. 12 at 3:53 p.m., K9 officer Rush assisted with a case on Iby Street.

Feb. 12 at 6:51 p.m., police responded to Williston Road for a car crash involving injuries.

Feb. 13 at 12:31 a.m., police responded to Farrell Street for a noise complaint.

Feb. 13 at 3:38 a.m., someone accidentally dialed 911.

Derek E. Hardy, 48, of Newport City, was arrested for driving while under criminal license suspension, unlawful mischief, negligent operation, eluding a police officer, resist-

Arrests: Andrew J. Verner, 28, of South Burlington, was arrested on an in-state warrant.

An unnamed juvenile was arrested for grossly negligent operation of a vehicle, excessive speed and a felony for eluding a police officer while driving in a grossly negligent manner.

Robert G. Linton, 48, of South Burlington, arrested as a fugitive from justice.

Wendy Many, 52, of Williston, was arrested for domestic assault.

South Burlington Police say they believe that two recent bank robberies are connected.

On Jan. 10 around 5 p.m. a man came into Key Bank, 40 Pearl St., in Essex Junction and demanded cash from the teller. The suspect fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of money.

The suspect was described as a white male, over 6 feet tall with a medium build. He was wearing a black winter hat, blue disposable mask, camouflage Real Tree sweatshirt, black pants and red and white shoes.

On Jan. 21 at 5:30 p.m. police believe the same man

ing arrest and as a fugitive from justice.

Michael S. Ward, 31, of Essex Junction, was arrested for disorderly conduct and false alarms to public safety.

Crime briefs entered Peoples United Bank at 1830 Shelburne Road in South Burlington, and again demanded cash from the teller.

The suspect drove away in a silver or gray older model SUV, possibly a Honda Pilot.

During the Shelburne Road robbery, the suspect wore a gray winter style hat, a neck gaiter, gray sweatshirt, black pants, and red and white sneakers. The clerk described the man as 6-foot, 3-inches with a medium build.

Essex and South Burlington police are asking anyone with information about the suspect, vehicle or robberies to contact them.

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The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 5

OPINION Letters to the Editor Emery envisions, protects South Burlington’s future To the Editor: How does South Burlington grow, protect and support a healthy mix of socio-economic needs and do it in a way that protects the environment? This is the essential question that the city is grappling with, and Meaghan Emery listens thoughtfully to the debate around protecting the environment and how much housing — and of what type — South Burlington needs.

She knows these two critical issues are intertwined yet is disciplined in the discussions around keeping these two policy objectives clearly defined. She

demonstrates a commitment to smart growth, a pattern of land development that creates compact, walkable, transit-accessible communities with a range of affordable housing opportunities and choices.

Emery understands and advocates for the principles of smart growth and supports redevelopment of existing vacant buildings along our main transportation corridors. She is a creative thinker, problem solver and continual learner. She is a longstanding steward of our environment and natural resources. She is well versed in the goals and current research in Vermont’s Climate Action Plan.

Support Meaghan Emery for

If you want a City Councilor who will work hard to make South Burlington a great place to afford a home, pursue a work path, raise a family, and spend your golden years - for people of all ages, incomes, and backgrounds - I ASK FOR YOUR VOTE ON MARCH 1, 2022.

city council. She has the proven leadership and vision for creating a resilient, livable and affordable community.

Janet Bellavance South Burlington

Incumbents get SoBu’s conservation, housing needs To the Editor: After three hard years of testimony, letter writing, study and a pandemic, the new land development regulations, unanimously proposed by the planning commission, are finally the law.

Thank you, South Burlington City Council. While I think they still fall short in key areas, they are a marked improvement from the former regulations. The regulations will help the city begin to address climate change, and the newly protected natural resource lands will help to sequester carbon, filter pollutants from our water, provide habitat for pollinators, insects and wildlife, clean and cool our air and mitigate the intense weather impacting our lives and worsening every year.

The vote was 3-2, with councilors Helen Riehle, Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt in favor.

Councilors Thomas Chittenden and Matt Cota voted no.

Echoing the demands of the affordable housing committee, they are against the new — and critically important — habitat blocks and habitat connectors and are against requiring that conservation go together with development in sensitive natural resource areas.

Cota would go further and eliminate new natural resource protection areas, reduce vital buffers around streams and wetlands and strangely re-define conservation as a 20-year development hiatus.

It is perplexing why these councilors and the affordable housing committee are so focused on the promotion of unaffordable See LETTERS on page 6

 Affordability Focused  Balanced Leadership  Common Sense Priorities  Fiscal Responsibility

LEARN MORE AT CHRISTROMBLY.COM OR EMAIL AT CTROMBLY@GMAIL.COM. PAID FOR BY CHRIS TROMBLY FOR SOUTH BURLINGTON | SANDY DOOLEY, TREASURER | 16 DUBOIS DRIVE, SOUTH BURLINGTON,VT 05403 | 802-391-0926

Page 6 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

LETTERS

continued from page 5 sprawl in the city’s remaining natural areas rather than housing near public transportation, schools and other municipal services that make living for those on modest incomes truly affordable.

To ensure that the work of the past three years is not undone by a new city council, I strongly support the re-election of Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt. Unlike their opponents, Emery and Barritt understand the importance of conservation of our remaining natural resource lands, as well as the need to construct more truly affordable housing.

Both are fair, thorough, thoughtful and passionate about the future of our city.

Andrew Chalnick South Burlington

Emery looks after interests of all residents To the Editor: I am writing to endorse Meaghan Emery for South Burlington City Council. Emery is someone with whom I have enjoyed a professional relationship for the past 10 years at the University of Vermont, so I have firsthand experience of her integrity, intelligence, thoughtfulness and dedication to the common good.

In addition to these general grounds for my support, I believe her positions on local issues are balanced and sustainable.

Her approach to local development allows for environmentally sustainable, resident-friendly growth over the long term.

Her vision of growth will benefit all current residents of South Burlington and enable future families to move here.

In sum, I encourage everyone to vote in the upcoming elections, and please consider giving your vote to Meaghan Emery for city council. She is honest, right-minded, thoughtful and genuinely concerned to achieve the best outcome for all residents of South Burlington.

Deborah Cafiero South Burlington

Re-electing Barritt, Emery is crucial To the Editor: This city council election is probably the most important one we have had in the last decade, the outcome of which is critical to our city and our future.

South Burlington has five city councilors so three constitute a majority. We currently have three councilors who understand the imperatives for us to take immediate action against the climate crisis. Scientists around the world have been telling us that how we use (or abuse) our lands, especially those areas that contain natural resources such as trees, soil, grasses and wetlands will determine whether we will be able to withstand the coming climate disasters, or whether through their loss, we will experience greater suffering.

Tim Barritt and Meaghan Emery have been addressing the climate crisis and taking action to help South Burlington be better prepared so that we and our children will get through what’s to come. Unfortu-

nately, they are being criticized for trying to preserve the elements of nature that experts say we need in this code-red climate crisis. Opponents are claiming that building houses over open lands is more important than retaining our natural protective resource lands. This is mind-boggling.

Maybe money is the motivation for the opposition. A few people in some industries — construction, banking, real estate, fossil fuel — make a lot of money from housing on rural lands. But Barritt and Emery can’t be bought by special interest groups. They are looking out for all of us, not just those who speak the loudest or have the most money.

The future of our city is at stake in the March 1 city council election. We need councilors who know the science of climate change and put our survival and that of our children as their highest priority.

Vote for Tim Barritt and Meaghan Emery.

Rosanne Greco South Burlington

Trombly helps build consensus To the Editor: As a rather recently added member of the South Burlington Affordable Housing Committee, I have always been impressed with Chris Trombly’s calm and balanced handling of sometimes heated discussions.

He beautifully sums up the points each side makes and builds consensus among the group. As a leader and a co-chair, his voice of reason is widely respected. His in-depth knowledge of the characters, laws and zoning, along with his dedication to both affordable housing and averting the effects of climate change would make him an excellent city councilor.

Ariel Jensen-Vargas South Burlington

A vote for city’s future is a vote for Emery To the Editor: We wholeheartedly endorse Meaghan Emery for re-election to the two-year seat on the city council.

Returning to Vermont in 1971 after graduate school and serving in the military, my husband and I chose to live in South Burlington rather than our native Burlington. We chose South Burlington for its excellent schools, beautiful natural spaces and proximity to Lake Champlain.

In the 1980s we hosted an exchange student from Germany and in the 1990s, one from France. With pride, we drove them around to show off our city. Both were so impressed by the mix of open country and city. Since then, much of the natural land we showed them has been paved over for more and more development. Runoff from the development has contributed to the pollution of the lake. We cannot continue to destroy the very fabric of our lives.

Given the urgent existential threat of climate change upon us, it is imperative See LETTERS on page 7

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 7

LETTERS

continued from page 6 that we maintain a city council that is not a rubber stamp for more destruction.

Emery has served the city well since 2008. She has been a voice of reason, thoughtful debate, truth and dedication. She is well-informed on the issues, and she makes judgment calls based on what is best for South Burlington residents and our environment. We need long term sustainability and Emery will fight for that.

Please vote for the future of our great city, our children, our grandchildren and theirs. Vote for Meaghan Emery.

in our community, you may meet Emery and her family. She has taken an active role in addressing the needs of thousands of residents who include dogs and, at the same time, recognizing the need to address the challenges they present to the overall community.

While being the only council member who does not live in the southeast quadrant, Emery has successfully established an extensive record of addressing concerns and accomplishments that affect all of us.

Join me in re-electing Meaghan Emery.

Monica and Al Farrington South Burlington

Elizabeth Milizia South Burlington

Emery’s vision right for South Burlington

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

To the Editor: Election day is fast approaching, as is springtime. I’m writing to encourage all South Burlington voters to value the impact of their vote, and to thoughtfully consider the importance of the re-election of Meaghan Emery to the city council’s two-year seat.

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Emery. If you don’t know much about her, I strongly encourage you to seek out her website online. You’ll discover exactly what Emery is all about — goodness, caring, community.

Emery has a working vision for South Burlington and the natural environment that sustains us.

Her re-election is an opportunity that should not be missed.

To the Editor: We must continue to support the team of Helen Riehle, Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt.

Would you replace Michael Jordan, Scotty Pippen and Denis Rodman with second-string high school players? Not if you wanted to win games, you wouldn’t.

It’s the same with South Burlington’s City Council. Riehle, Emery and Barritt have each demonstrated that they have no agenda. They are not exclusively pro- or anti-development. They are not part of the industrial-construction complex. Nor are they rabid tree-huggers who are against all growth.

They have worked very hard to achieve the balance necessary for all of us to have a vital, livable city. The decisions they make right now, in 2022, will live on for decades to come. I’ve spoken with each one of these fine lawmakers and am convinced that they have long-term visions for the future.

Plus, it’s no small matter that they work very well together as a team. While they certainly don’t agree on everything, they bring out the best in each other. As a longterm South Burlington resident, I can’t shout out loud enough how important it is to have councilors who bring their best game to every meeting. They are not beholden to any group, and their decisions are based on what’s best for all of us.

Margaret Palombo South Burlington

City councilor works for all South Burlington residents To the Editor: As a resident of South Burlington for more than 35 years, I’ve seen elected officials come and go and priorities shift. We are fortunate to have Meaghan Emery as a member of our city council. She continues to ensure South Burlington residents enjoy a supportive and meaningful quality of life that is the envy of other communities.

Emery has been a voice for our neighbors who live in ever dwindling neighborhoods affected by airport expansion. She is an advocate for creating more affordable housing in South Burlington, while being a voice for protecting our open spaces and natural areas from development that would eliminate critical habitats for wildlife and destroy the few priceless vistas of the Green Mountains, the public can enjoy.

If you enjoy the miles of trails

Joe Randazzo South Burlington

City councilor proves she has the chops To the Editor: We know a great deal about Meaghan Emery thanks to her years of dedicated and effective work on the South Burlington City Council. She has collaborated with

many boards and committees to research, help design and shepherd countless critical initiatives, especially in the last decade.

I have been impressed with her considerable intelligence, diligent participation and willingness to listen. She has: • Guided protections of our natural resources, parks and open spaces.

• Helped create the Affordable Housing Trust and critical discussions about where, how and what that can and should look like. Her dedication to diversity and support for middle- and lower-income residents is genuine.

• Developed policies and practices to maximize energy savings in city buildings.

• Helped unpack the growing needs of the police and fire departments.

• Wrestled with the property tax challenges and increasing home costs that threaten many longtime residents.

• Provided oversight and support for the new city center and our incredible library.

And this is just the short list.

While I’m thrilled to see other residents interested in serving the city on the council, I firmly suggest that Emery stands shoul-

ders above any competitor. Her grasp of complex city issues, her long historical view of projects, policies and initiatives, and her working relationships with so many players in every department are incomparable.

Please join me in thanking her for the valuable work she has done for all of us by voting on or before March 1. Meaghan Emery is exactly the kind of civil servant I cherish.

Lynn Vera South Burlington See LETTERS on page 8

VOTE MARCH 1

VOTE for a new voice, listening to you

VOTE to balance environmental protection with thoughtful development VOTE for a strong, sustainable future VOTE TO BE HEARD!

WEBSITE: LindaBailey4SB.squarespace.com EMAIL: LindaBailey4SB@gmail.com PHONE: (802) 552-0270 FACEBOOK: /Linda-Bailey-for-City-Council-112215088038965/ Paid for by Linda Bailey for SB, 150 Dorset St, Ste 245, PMB 315, South Burlington, VT 05403

Page 8 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

LETTERS

continued from page 7

Vote for experience, commitment To the Editor: Through their decisions and votes on the city council, Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt have demonstrated a commitment to the common good and results that serve the balanced interests of the residents in our city. Their actions are consistent with their commitment to affordable housing, and responsible and balanced growth through the lens of fiscal responsibility.

Yes, we need more affordable housing in South Burlington. Yes, we need to support economic growth. Yes, we need to share in combating quality of life issues — food insecurity, mental health, homelessness, etc. Yes, we need to stand for equality and equity among genders, ethnicity and races.

But these should not be

competing interests and needs. As a community, we can ultimately best serve these various ends by working collaboratively and with the best interests of all citizens at the center of our public dialogue and work for the common good.

Emery and Barritt not only listen, but also hear others and respect their viewpoints while working toward shared goals, not special or personal interests.

They have been on the council as active participants throughout the developing complexities of interim zoning, form-based codes, tax increment financing and City Center development, city leadership changes, airport expansion, F-35 concerns and evolving land development regulations. After respectfully listening to community dialogue, testimony, advocacy and opposing views, they ultimately vetted and built upon the work and contributions of our

planning commission to ensure that conservation and land development are responsibly balanced in the city. I value their experience, commitment, dedication and values/policies.

I will support them with my vote.

Bruce Chattman South Burlington

Emery works for both affordable housing, open space To the Editor: Affordable housing is a critical need in South Burlington.

Protection of priority remaining open spaces and natural areas is also critical. Once gone, they can’t be replaced. We need city council leadership that recognizes and provides leadership on both.

Meaghan Emery has demon-

strated that balanced, respectful and thoughtful work as a member of the city council and we support her re-election in March.

As a councilor, Emery has worked for and supported the creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the affordable housing committee as well as expanded inclusionary zoning to allow more affordable housing in areas under development.

Additionally, she was a member of the interim zoning committee that in March 2020 reported its findings to the city as charged with “the prioritization for conservation of existing open spaces, forest blocks and working landscapes in South Burlington in the sustenance of our natural ecosystem, scenic viewsheds and river corridors.”

The land development regulations maintain development opportunities for those parcels

that also include sensitive natural areas within their boundaries.

Supporting Emery now means that we value both the development of affordable housing and conserving our most sensitive and vital natural resources.

Larry Kupferman Susan Schoenfeld South Burlington

Trombly understands challenges city faces To the Editor: We would like to endorse Chris Trombly for South Burlington City Council. Although his opponent has served the city for many years, the time has come for a change.

The city has come through a difficult effort to find a comproSee LETTERS on page 9

TOGETHER WE CAN GET IT DONE

MEAGHAN EMERY

WE SUPPORT:

RE-ELECT

RE-ELECT

THE CHOICE FOR MOVING FORWARD

TIM BARRITT

• New regulations to create more perpetually affordable housing in our employment and education centers • Efforts to ensure the SBPD continues as leaders with impartial policing • Adopting energy upgrades and requirements for commercial and residential properties to help meet net-zero goals • Continuing to advance shared services with our neighboring communities, such as dispatch • Utilizing ARPA funds strategically and creatively to improve infrastructure, programs and affordable housing • Centralizing resources for business start-ups • A new indoor recreation center

INFORMATION: VoteForEmery.com

INFORMATION: TimForSB.wordpress.com

Paid for by VoteForEmery, M.J. Reale, Treasurer 110 Central Ave., South Burlington, VT 05403

Paid for by Tim Barritt 162 Royal Drive, South Burlington, VT 05403

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 9

LETTERS

continued from page 8 mise between open space preservation and more affordable, equitable and denser housing in the southeast quadrant. Finally, after three long years, the new land use regulations were adopted by the council.

Moving forward, with a contentious issue in the rear-view mirror and the challenge of shaping a city climate change strategy just getting underway we need a new leader who is an experienced, down-to-earth problem solver.

Trombly is ready to listen to all voices, dig into the data and be guided always with the understanding that the cost of living is high here and a large percentage of our citizens have a problem paying for monthly expenses.

John and Nancy Simson South Burlington

Affordable housing, green spaces not incompatible To the Editor: I was very reassured to see that both Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt are running again for seats on the South Burlington City Council.

During my eight years on the recreation and parks committee, four of them as chair, I saw a lot of Emery, and overlapped with Barritt during his first term on the council.

I found both to be among the best listeners I have met, consistently thoughtful and non-confrontational in dealing with the often-divisive issues the council must face.

They both have shown great respect for the time and work given by staff and unpaid committee members.

It is especially reassuring to me that both Emery and Barritt have solidly endorsed the new land development regulations prepared by the planning commission through hundreds of hours of careful work.

This has been and continues to be a critical time in our city’s history, with inevitable friction between the advocates of more affordable housing and the advocates of protecting our remaining green spaces and wild lands.

I believe we can have both affordable housing and green spaces if we are willing to live with the friction. Voting for Emery and Barritt seems to me to be the best way to assure that we do have both.

Glenn Sproul South Burlington

Candidate does her research thoroughly To the Editor: I am writing to ask the voters of South Burlington to re-elect Meaghan Emery to another term as a member of city council.

Emery has served on the council for many years and has served us well. As is the case of every public servant, she has at times been at the center of controversy. That’s a positive. Thoughtful disagreement leads to good council decisions.

Emery has consistently supported affordable housing and economic development. She is passionate about the environment. She is, however, a pragmatist; one who thoroughly researches a subject before

voting. We need her continued presence on the city council.

Vote for Meaghan Emery on March 1.

Bob Walsh South Burlington

Trombly, Bailey offer city a brighter future To the Editor: Our city’s struggle with very fundamental issues over the past few years clearly demonstrates why we should vote for Chris Trombly and Linda Bailey for South Burlington City Council.

Both candidates are lifelong Vermonters seeking to help South Burlington become a more vibrant, inclusive community. Their commitment to seeking more consensus and listening to all residents will help South Burlington become a place we can all be proud of. I urge you to make an informed choice in this election by learning about these candidates at their campaign websites online.

Affordable units are accepted grudgingly by developers in exchange for the opportunity to maximize profits on market rate units.

Developers want to make money — they are not charities. Who can fault them for seeking to build? It’s what they do.

However, we need not agree to sacrifice precious open spaces, further shrinking critical habitat and driving more wildlife to the fringes.

What’s more, it is magical thinking to believe that if we residents of South Burlington fall on our sword and permit our city to be completely built out, the developers will simply fold up shop. They’re guaranteed to move on to outlying, equally precious land. Development begets development.

The planning commission worked tirelessly for years on the carefully crafted land use regulations that were recently passed by a single vote on the city council after countless hours of deliberation, including multiple hours of public comment. The regulations allow for plenty of development, including affordable housing, while protecting critical natural resources in this

increasingly treacherous era of climate change and environmental degradation.

Vote for both Emery and Barritt. If they lose, the new land development regulations will be at risk, and we can look forward to an explosion of new development and its terrible environmental consequences.

Beth Zigmund South Burlington

Why did Bailey not respond to PAC’s survey?

To the Editor: In preparing to educate the community on the upcoming city council elections, Voices for the Environment (VOTE) asked each of the four candidates running for the two open seats to complete a 12-question survey on the relevant and current issue important to this election.

Fortunately, councilors Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt along with candidate Chris See LETTERS on page 10

Peter Plumeau South Burlington

Your votes will protect the natural environment To the Editor: If you are concerned about suburban sprawl related to proposed land developments in South Burlington and if you feel that protection of our community’s natural landscapes and habitats is important for the health and well-being of all join me in casting your votes for Meagan Emery and Tim Barritt for city council.

Protect our natural environment.

David Weissgold South Burlington

Don’t let them turn SB into New Jersey To the Editor: I need not sing the praises of Meaghan Emery and Tim Barritt — this would be redundant to the recent flood of letters in their support.

Instead, I present a question and a warning: Do we want to turn South Burlington into South Jersey? If you’ve never been there — I speak from long experience — imagine a panorama of strip malls, subdivisions and clusters of big-box stores, bisected by a congested, noisy network of gas-choked streets and small highways.

Once upon a time South Jersey was farmland. What on earth happened there?

Developers and their partners-in-profit bent over backwards to make sure their mouthpieces — however unwitting or well-intentioned — were elected to government, from the smallest municipalities to the state level.

Let’s be honest, the debate at the heart of this election isn’t about affordable housing. It’s primarily about more housing for middle- and upper-income folks. As we all know, for every 100 market rate units, only 10 affordable, or inclusionary, units are required to be built. Required is key here.

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Page 10 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

House looks at libraries, public safety, connectivity • Vermont Department of Public Safety, $11 million: These funds would pay for a re-do of Rep. Maida Townsend the state’s emergency communications system, correcting vulnerAs a member of the House abilities that have developed Committee on Appropriations, I over recent years in emergency am responsible for eight sections dispatch. The dollars would cover of the state budget: libraries; the initial year of tranpublic safety; forests, sition and operational parks and recreation; costs for agencies to treasurer’s office; secreshift from state services tary of state’s office; to regional services. criminal justice council; Stakeholders at the executive office; and state and municipal and the legislative branch. county levels continue There are multito work on the details. tudes of numbers and Of the total, $8 million verbiage to understand is a one-time investand assess. Embedded ment, and $3 million for consideration in the Maida Townsend is built into the base 2023 budget process are Vermont House budget and envisioned some particularly inter- of Representatives District 7-4 to sunset in 24 to 36 esting and potentially months upon project controversial initiacompletion. tives. Here are a very • Vermont Department of few such initiatives, but please Forests, Parks, and Recreation, understand that it remains to be $1.5 million: These capital seen if any will gain traction and dollars would improve reliabilbe enacted. ity and performance of internet • Vermont Department of connectivity services at all 55 Libraries, $15.9 million: These developed state parks. Currently, funds would pay for capital connectivity speeds and reliabiliimprovements, such as complity vary greatly. ance with requirements of the In some cases, performance is Americans with Disabilities poor enough that the state parks’ Act; better space for in-building online reservation and pointinternet access, including private of-sale systems do not perform or semi-private space for online adequately. In some cases, it is medical appointments and job not a sure thing that an emergeninterviews; and general buildcy call can get through. Both the ing improvements. These funds visiting public and park employwould be granted to libraries ees have voiced the need for based on proposals submitted to reliable digital communication. the department.

Legislative Update

• Vermont Treasurer’s Office, $6.2 million: This is one-time funding, plus $325,000 made available by debt reduction resulting from paying off $20 million in general obligation bonds. This total would serve to establish the Capital Expenditure Cash Fund.

There are a gazillion details involved here, but the bottom line is that money would be saved by paying for capital projects with cash rather than bonds.

Cash payments authorized would include pre-construction expenses such as feasibility, planning, design, engineering and architectural costs.

Over the next 20 years, this approach would save an estimated $45 million in interest payments.

• Vermont Criminal Justice

Council, $150,000: $50,000 would pay entrance exam materials and $100,000 would pay for an incident simulator. Both support training modernization at the police academy in Pittsford.

Development of a new written entrance exam would update screening of law enforcement applicants and the simulator would enhance de-escalation training. This very modest amount of funding would combine with the authorization in the budget of a professional regulatory investigator on staff to review internal affairs investigations.

The funding for that position has already been approved.

Although not requiring large expenditures, these investments would undergird good policing

and law enforcement accountability.

Unfortunately, candidate Linda Bailey refused to participate and has left the residents of South Burlington with little information with respect to her qualifications for this important office in city government. Unlike the other three candidates, we do not know if she has any experience in public service, has served on any committees or volunteered her time to any city organizations and community activities.

It would seem irresponsible and unwise for any candidate not to take advantage of an opportu-

nity to express their opinions and positions in writing. Residents of South Burlington are a well-educated and informed community of citizens willing to engage in the political process before casting their votes.

Bailey’s decision not to participate has left many voters wondering who she is, why she is qualified to run for this position and what her vision is for the future of our city. That’s not fair to this community and unfortunately speaks poorly of her candidacy.

If you would like to do a deep dive into the fiscal year 2023 documents and documentation, go to legislature.vermont.gov/ committee/detail/2022/9.

As always, do not hesitate to reach out with your questions and concerns: mtownsend@leg.state. vt.us; 802-862-7404; 232 Patchen Road; or Duke’s on Saturday mornings from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Special note: Due to scheduling complexities, a federal holiday and our not wanting to conflict with various city meetings, we are unable to hold our usual monthly legislative forum in February.

Hopefully, no impediments will present themselves for our March 28 forum.

LETTERS

continued from page 9 Trombly chose to respond. Their answers were informative and helpful. VOTE has posted all their responses on its webpage, voices-environment-sb.com, for all citizens to review.

Their participation was appreciated and gave members reasons to endorse both Emery and Barritt for City Council. Even though the group did not endorse candidate Trombly, we are appreciative of his thorough answers to our questions. We hope many other residents visit our site to inform their decision in this election.

Ray Gonda South Burlington Editor’s note: All four candidates responded to questions from The Other Paper. See their responses here, bit.ly/3Jrhqjk.

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Support Bailey, Trombly for city council seats To the Editor: Join me in supporting Chris Trombly and Linda Bailey for South Burlington City Council.

Trombly has served South Burlington as chair of the affordable housing committee, vice chair of the board of civil authority and tax abatement, and as justice of the peace. He finds time to do this in addition to being a married father of two young boys, and his job at People’s United Bank.

If you want to get something done, find a busy person to do it.

That sums up Chris.

Bailey is a newcomer to the South Burlington political scene.

Why would someone living a predictable life in semi-retirement See LETTERS on page 11

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 11

Bike-ped committee makes strides, thanks to Pennies for Paths Guest Perspective Cathy Frank In August 2018, South Burlington residents voted to designate one penny on the tax rate for bike and pedestrian infrastructure throughout the city. The bike-pedestrian committee is excited to report the impact and significant progress in the past three years.

In many cases the Pennies for Paths funds have been used to fund small projects, but more significantly those funds have been leveraged as matching funds to raise $1.125 million to date in federal and state grants.

While the use of such grants lengthens the time to complete a project due to all the requirements to meet regulations, in the end, it significantly expands the

bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects that can be completed.

As of 2021 we have leveraged Pennies for Paths funds to receive the $640,000 in grants from Vermont Agency of Transportation’s bike-pedestrian program to fill a critical gap in the shared use path on the east side of Dorset Street from Nowland Farm Road to Sadie Lane.

Some of the matching funds for this project also came from South Burlington’s recreations impact fees.

This project is currently in the process of obtaining necessary easements and is expected to be built in 2023.

Other grants include $75,000 from the transportation agency’s small-scale bicycle and pedestrian program for the Kennedy

LETTERS

continued from page 11 want to run for city council? Well Bailey’s career was in sales and in sales you serve the needs of your clients.

Right now, Bailey feels strongly that our community needs changes so that everyone is being listened to and served, not just the ones who make the most noise.

So, she is stepping up and offering to serve us.

I am excited to accept both Bailey’s and Trombly’s offers to serve us.

Michael Simoneau South Burlington

Barritt will ensure ‘clock doesn’t tick back’ To the Editor: I enthusiastically support Tim Barritt for re-election to the South Burlington City Council. Barritt has lived here for 30 years where he and his wife raised their two sons and called our city home.

Like most of us who live in South Burlington, he was born in another state and experienced a variety of communities. Born in Washington, D.C., he has lived in several states, worked in West Africa in the Peace Corps, and finally settled here working for IBM. It is this broad set of experiences and perspectives that has served him well on the city council. He has been able to draw upon his time living and working in other communities and states, and balance that with his 30 years of knowledge with what is needed for South Burlington and Vermont.

Barritt has been an outstanding member of our community, volun-

teering his time by serving on the South Burlington Library board for six years, the development review board for four years, and the pension advisory committee.

For the past six years, he has been one of our finest city councilors.

With all this experience, Barritt has the big picture focus, and that’s why he voted to approve the land development regulations. These were worked through by the planning commission and passed by a 7-0 vote. The city council then approved with a 3-2 vote.

Barritt has seen what’s happened to other communities that did not take decisive action and are now experiencing uncontrollable sprawl and pollution. He also understands the immediate dangers of not protecting our natural resources and the urgency of the climate crisis. At the same time, he recognizes the need to create housing options within a defined city core, away from the remaining natural areas that are critical to mitigating the climate crisis.

A failure to re-elect Tim Barritt will put an inexperienced and pro-development candidate, Linda Bailey, in his seat and the clock will rapidly tick backwards, dismantling the planning commission’s land development regulations, much to the delight of the developers and real-estate agents who are eager for shortterm profit. Barritt is committed to controlling sprawl, saving the environment and creating housing in the appropriate locations.

Lynne Poteau South Burlington

Road crosswalk at Twin Oaks.

The state is also providing construction funding of $110,000 for two proposed crosswalks on Williston Road, one at Elsom Parkway and the other at Pine Tree Terrace.

Hinesburg Road, a state road and major transportation route in the city, has been identified by the bike-pedestrian committee as needing multiple improvements to make it more pedestrian and biking friendly. The city has submitted proposed crosswalks and crosswalk upgrades to the Vermont Agency of Transportation for review and comment.

Needed crosswalks have been identified and designed for Ruth Street, Prouty Parkway and the Awasiwi Trail. The city received a permit from the state and hopes to implement the crosswalks in 2022.

Additionally, the city has received $300,000 from the agency for the design and construction of an approximately 3,500-foot shared use path along

Spear Street to Swift Street. path system.

Additional Pennies for • Kimball Avenue culvert Paths funds are being used for a and bike-ped infrastructure: significant number of projects in The city’s stormwater departvarious stages of development ment received a grant to fund or have already the design and been completed. construction Pennies for Paths To list a few: of the Kimball • Spear Street Avenue culvert funds have been jug handle sideproject. The walk: Approxinew bicycle leveraged as mately 300-feet and pedestrian of sidewalk infrastructure matching funds to between Spear at that location Street and East will be funded raise $1.125 million Terrace, completwith Pennies for to date in state and ed.

Paths and recre• Allen Road ation impact federal grants. shared use path: fees.

An 800-foot path With more extending from Spear Street to projects planned, South BurlBay Crest Drive. At the same ington has made great strides in time, pedestrian crossing signals connecting existing paths and and striping for bike lanes were neighborhoods for a safer and completed. more enjoyable biking and walk• A shared use path that ing experience. will cross the Hubbard Recreation and Natural Area is being Cathy Frank is a member of designed, helping to connect an the South Burlington Bike-Pedesentire neighborhood to the paved trian Committee.

Visit us online at otherpapersbvt.com

Page 12 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

SOUTH BURLINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

FY2023 BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS • • • • •

Projected Homestead and Non-Homestead Tax Rates are higher than last year.

Net Spending per Equalized Pupil is higher than last year.

Adds staffing due to increasing enrollment at the elementary schools.

Separate Article seeking permission to use any FY22 surplus for FY23 Covid-19 expenses.

Legislative allocations of State Education Fund surplus could lower FY23 property tax rates.

THE PROJECTED HOMESTEAD TAX RATE INCREASES PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY BY $8.00 PER $100,000 OF ASSESSED VALUE.

The mission of the South Burlington School District is to ensure that each student possesses the knowledge, skills, and character to create a successful and responsible life. We will do this by building safe, caring, and challenging learning environments, fostering family and community partnerships, utilizing global resources, and inspiring life-long learning.

South Burlington School Tax Rates

* Estimated

FY2022

FY2023*

% Change

Homestead

1.3249

1.3333

0.63%

Non-Homestead

1.43389

1.4675

1.99%

FY 2023 SOUTH BURLINGTON PROPOSED SCHOOL BUDGET 2022 Budget

2023 Budget

Incr.(Decr.)

Over FY2022

% Change

Total Budget Expenses

$55,623,080

$58,344,602

$2,721,522

4.89%

Less: Local Revenue*

$12,448,803

$13,599,887

$1,151,084

9.25%

NET EDUCATION SPENDING

$43,174,277

$44,744,715

$1,570,438

3.64%

Equalized Pupils

2,570.31

2,568.67

-1.64

-0.06%

Education Spending per Equalized Pupil

$16,797

$17,419

$622

3.70%

*Local Revenue consists of Tuition Received, State Special Education Funds, Federal Grant Funds, and Undesignated Fund Balance.

Over half of South Burlington property owners (those with household income of up to $137,500 in 2021) are eligible for a property tax credit that reduces their school property taxes based on their income. You must apply for a property tax adjustment by downloading forms at: http:// tax.vermont.gov/property-owners/property-tax-adjustment-claim For details on the FY23 budget, including an explanation of the tax rate decrease, please visit: https://www.sbschools.net/Page/1994

Total Expenses ($58,344,602), Education Spending per Equalized Pupil ($17,419), and the increase in Education Spending per Equalized Pupil (3.70%) are figures that will appear on the ballot as required by State Statute.

Your Vote is Your Voice! Tuesday, March 1, 2022 If you have not registered to vote yet, please visit https://olvr.vermont.gov.

Ballots were available starting February 9th. If you wish to vote early you may call the clerk’s office to have the ballot mailed to you, go online to https://mvp.vermont.gov/ to request the ballot or vote in the clerk’s office up until noon on February 28th, during regular business hours. All ballots must be received by the close of the polls in order to be counted.

All polling places will be open on Town Meeting Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 13

Understanding the Property Tax Formula How does Vermont get from the school budget to our property taxes? Here’s how it works: EXPENDITURES Expenditures are the total dollars a school district intends to spend.

$58,344,602

MINUS LOCAL REVENUES Local revenues are money the district has or is owed (e.g., federal dollars, state aid for special education, transportation, tuitions, surplus, interest).

$13,599,887

EQUALS EDUCATION SPENDING Education spending is the amount that needs to be raised by education property taxes, augmented by the Education Fund.

$44,744,715

DIVIDED BY EQUALIZED PUPILS Equalized pupils is calculated by the state based on a two-year average of the district’s average daily membership weighted for factors like the number of students who are English language learners, who are in high school, or who are receiving free or reduced lunch.

2,568.67

EQUALS EDUCATION SPENDING PER EQUALIZED PUPIL Education spending divided by equalized pupils.

$17,419.41

DIVIDED BY PROPERTY TAX YIELD PER $1 OF TAX RATE Formerly referred to as the Base Amount, which is set by the state and used to compare districts’ education spending per equalized pupil.

$12,937

EQUALS EQUALIZED HOMESTEAD TAX RATE TO BE PRORATED Education spending per equalized pupil divided by property tax yield.

$1.3465

DIVIDED BY COMMON LEVEL OF APPRAISAL (CLA) CLA is the ratio of the town’s listed property values versus the state’s estimates of those values.

100.99%

EQUALS ACTUAL HOMESTEAD TAX RATE (ESTIMATED) Equalized homestead tax rate divided by the CLA. This is multiplied by the assessed value of your home and divided by 100. The resulting education tax is added to the municipal tax to calculate your total property tax due. However, if you make less than $137,500, you may be eligible to pay some to all of your taxes based on your income, rather than your property value.

$1.3333

ACTUAL NON-HOMESTEAD TAX RATE (ESTIMATED) The State sets the non-homestead base rate, which is then divided by CLA.

$1.4675

SOUTH BURLINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT Budget & Tax Rate Changes Proposed FY 2023 Budget

Fiscal Year 2023* 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014

Budget Request $58,344,602 $55,623,080 $52,532,248 $51,746,533 $49,686,166 $49,268,888 $46,973,703 $45,747,228 $44,297,297 $42,986,751 Five Year Averages: Ten Year Averages:

% Spending Increase Proposed 4.89% 5.88% 1.52% 4.15% 0.85% 4.89% 2.68% 3.27% 3.05% 2.09% 3.46% 3.33%

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Tax Rate 1.3333 1.3249 1.6336 1.6030 1.5506 1.5794 1.6117 1.6202 1.6104 1.5171

Change in Tax Rate 0.63% -18.90% 1.91% 3.38% -1.82% -2.00% -0.52% 0.61% 6.15% 7.50% -2.96% -0.31%

* Estimated, subject to final adjustments by the state legislature & budget adoption

Paid for by South Burlington School District

Page 14 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

COMMUNITY Community Notes

Hillary Palmer

Agent joins Geri Reilly Hillary Palmer has joined Geri Reilly Real Estate in South Burl-

ington as an agent.

She is a native Vermonter who grew up in Hinesburg.

She has spent the last eight years in service and restaurant management in Burlington and looks forward to translating her skills to real estate.

Coming from a family filled with contractors, houses and their design have always been an interest and she is eager to help buyers find the right home.

She enjoys hiking with her golden retriever, Thornton.

Upcoming blood drives Saturday, March 5, 7:15 a.m.-4 p.m., University Mall, 155 Dorset

St., South Burlington.

Tuesday, March 8, noon-5 p.m., St. Catherine of Siena, 72 Church St., Shelburne.

Friday, March 18, 12:30-6 p.m., United Church of Hinesburg, 10580 Route 116, Hinesburg.

Thursday, April 14, 2-7 p.m., Charlotte Senior Center, 212 Ferry Road, Charlotte.

Civically involved students can apply for scholarship Applications are now being accepted for the Winona Smith Scholarship program.

Created in 1998 to honor the legacy of League of Women Voters leader Winona Smith, the scholar-

ship is awarded annually to local high school seniors who embody civic participation and community service.

Four $1,500 scholarships will be awarded to students who demonstrate financial need, scholastic achievement and come recommended by a teacher. Scholarship details can be found at bit. ly/3GJtzhI. Applications, due on May 1, can be completed online. Students need to submit two 500-word essays, one on voting rights and the other on the impact of a recent civic, national or world event. A letter of recommendation from a teacher is also required.

Recipients will be announced

June 1.

Questions? Contact Becky Miller, lwvofvt.edfund@gmail. com.

Garden club delivers cookies for Age Well On Feb. 11, members of the Burlington Garden Club delivered 360 homemade, decorated and individually wrapped heart-shaped Valentine’s cookies to the home of Mary Scollins. Later that day, they were picked up by a representative from Meals on Wheels for delivery on Valentine’s Day. This tradition began in 2014, See COMMUNITY NOTES on page 19

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The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 15

Obituary and Padraic Mackin of South Burlington; his beloved grandchilThomas Francis Mackin, 74, dren, Ellora, Ishaan and Kenneof South Burlington, died peace- dy; his siblings, Kathy Mackin, fully on the afternoon of Sunday Mike Mackin, Mary Lowder and Jan. 23, 2022, in the intensive care Jim Mackin; his daughter-in-law, unit of the University of Vermont Deepa Bhatt-Mackin; his brothersMedical Center, with his son by in-law, Ernest Lowder and Bob his side.

Casavaw; sisters-in-law, Mary Though fully vaccinated Tang and Sue Hatstat Mackin; his and boosted, Tom contracted a niece, Colleen Mackin; his former COVID-19 infection that, coupled wife, Cindy Mackin; and numerwith other longous cousins. term health Tom leaves issues, was more many close than his body friends, includcould overcome. ing Tom “Buck” Tom was born Bitter, whose in Burlington on friendship Oct. 18, 1947, spanned 50 years, to Francis and and his friends Dorothy Welch from high school Mackin. He gradwho provided uated from Rice much joy in the Memorial High last several years School in 1965 — especially and the Univerweekly cribsity of Vermont Thomas Francis Mackin bage with John College of EngiVarricchione and neering in 1971, fishing trips with where he was a member of the Mark Heinrich. Tom Chase was Kappa Sigma fraternity. He was also a special person in Tom’s life, also a member of the Vermont as both a close friend and profesArmy National Guard. sional mentor.

Tom’s professional career Everyone who knew Tom will included time at Knight Engineer- miss him. From Spaldings West ing, Jennison Engineering and Shore to Marco Island to UVM Pizzagalli Construction Company hockey — and whenever a football where he rose to the position of game is airing — his spirit will be vice president. He remembered ever present. And his work ethic fondly his role at Pizzagalli as and love for family will continue a young project manager in the in his sons and his grandchildren. construction of the Church Street Tom was fortunate to be able Marketplace. to visit with and bid farewell to He went on to become an family via video chat in his final industry leader in the construction days. of semi-conductor manufacturing A funeral Mass and burial facilities in Vermont, New York will be held on Saturday, Feb. 19, and Arizona.

2022, with attendance by immeTom was the consummate diate family only, due to concerns engineer and builder. In 1999, about COVID-19. The service will Tom did what he always longed to be livestreamed. An outdoor celedo and established his own busi- bration of Tom’s life will also take ness — TFM Construction and place during the summer.

Real Estate Company. Some of Tom’s family wishes to thank the projects he completed included the University of Vermont MediBurlington landmarks such as the cal Center, especially the intensive Lake Champlain Chocolate facto- care unit staff on McLure 4, the ry and Dealer.com building on Dialysis Unit at Joy Drive, TLC Pine Street.

Home Care and Dr. Frank Landry, He was awarded the Vermont whom Tom considered a good Business Growth Award for friend.

Construction in 2011.

Those wishing to honor Tom’s Even after his retirement, he memory are invited to donate to volunteered his time and expertise the University of Vermont Medical with many organizations, includ- Center, the University of Vermont ing St. Mark’s Church and Rice and Vermont Works for Women.

Memorial High School.

Arrangements are in the care Tom loved his family dearly. of the Ready Funeral Home South He is survived by his sons, Seamus Chapel. Visit readyfuneral.com to Bhatt-Mackin of Durham, N.C., place online condolences.

Good advice

Thomas Francis Mackin

OtherPaperSBVT.com Get the News of South Burlington 24/7

COURTESY PHOTO

Pathway Financial Advisors in South Burlington was recently honored as Vermont’s fastest-growing registered investment advisory firm, according to CityWire’s 2021 edition of 50 Growers Across America. “Pathway is honored to have been named the fastest-growing registered investment advisory firm in Vermont for the second year in a row. As a client-centered, fee-only financial planning firm, we are grateful to, and owe our success to, our clients,” said founder Scott Beaudin. Pathway also received the distinction in 2020 edition.

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Page 16 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

SPORTS

ESSEX COMMUNITY PLAYERS PRESENT

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South Burlington gymnasts capture one, two in all-around LAUREN READ CORRESPONDENT

Gymnastics

By Tom Smith Directed by Nan Murat & Becky Millard February 25 to March 12 Memorial Hall • Essex www.essexplayers.com

South Burlington 100.70, Middlebury 86.45: Ella Maynard won all four events and then captured the all-around win to lead South Burlington past Middlebury in gymnastics on Wednesday.

Maynard was first in the vault, bars, beam and floor exercise to win the all-around. Kyra Papariello was second in the vault, bars, beam and floor to come in second in the all-around.

Marisa Biddle was third in the vault and Lily Dulin was fourth in the beam to round out the South Burlington top performers.

Girls’ basketball

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Lake Region 40, South Burlington 35 (OT): Lake Region outscored South Burlington 10-5 in overtime Saturday, Feb. 12.

Aleah Staley had 18 points lead all scorers for South Burlington, while Miranda Hayes added 10 points.

With the loss, the Wolves dropped to 7-11.

South Burlington won Thursday, Feb. 10, beating Burlington 40-36.

Staley had 15 points, while Hayes added 14 points.

Girls’ hockey Essex 10, South Burlington 2: Eight different players scored for Essex as it beat South Burlington in girls’ hockey Saturday.

Sofia Richland and Kiley Burke each had a goal for the Wolves, while Abby Brennan made 10 saves in goal.

With the loss, South Burlington drops to 4-11.

It was the second loss of the week for the Wolves, who fell to the Kingdom Blades on Thursday 5-2.

Sawyer Bailey and Mia Angwin each had a goal for South Burlington. Brennan stopped 17 shots.

Boys’ hockey Spaulding 4, South Burlington 1: The South Burlington boys’ hockey team fell to Spaulding on Saturday, dropping to 5-8-1 on the season.

Nick Kelly had the lone goal for the Wolves, while James

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South Burlington grabbed a win on Friday, Feb. 11, beating Rutland 4-1.

Zach Erickson had a goal and an assist for the Wolves, while Shane Burke, Rowan Killeen and Will Heshberg each tallied once for South Burlington.

James Bradley stopped 25 shots to earn the win.

South Burlington began its busy run Wednesday, Feb. 9, beating Rice 4-3 in overtime.

Hershberg, Killeen, Nick Kelly and Andrew Chandler each had a goal, while Blake Truchon made 27 saves.

Boys’ basketball South Burlington 38, Mount Mansfield 36 (OT): South Burlington and Mount Mansfield traded baskets in the fourth quarter to force overtime before the Wolves took a lead and held for a win in extra time on Friday.

Khalon Taylor had 19 points to lead South Burlington, including four points in overtime to help the Wolves win. Alex Gordon scored 12 points for South Burlington, which moves to 8-6.

Alpine skiing The South Burlington alpine ski team took to the hill on Monday, Jan. 7, at Cochran’s Ski Area.

On the boys’ side, Rex Jewell came in first place for South Burlington. Justin Shafritz came in third overall and Jay Eagle was 22nd for the Wolves. Sawyer Bond was 28th and Owen Crate finished in 29th.

On the girls’ side, Alyssa Cady was the top finisher for the Wolves, coming in 30th. Sage Bennett followed in 46th and Gracie Lawrence was 63rd.

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The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 17

Vermont biathlete heads to Olympics as alternate Shooting, skiing pushes athletes to limit AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER

Hallie Grossman’s first time firing a gun, she was lying on the floor of her living room in Craftsbury with a biathlon rifle, learning to shoot righty even though she’s left-handed.

She had torn her meniscus hiking just two weeks after joining the Green Racing Project in Craftsbury to competitively ski, taking her out of fall and winter training.

But she expected to go back, not to take up the sport of guns and powder. She had no idea that a light-hearted challenge, taken on during surgery recovery, dry firing with no bullets, would take her to the Olympics.

Six years later, Grossman is in Beijing at the 2022 Winter Olympics as first alternate on the U.S. biathlon team.

Biathlon, a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, is relatively obscure in the states, less so in Vermont, but attracts baseball and football-sized crowds in Scandinavian countries where the sport was born. Some say the beginnings of biathlon go back to Norse god Ull, who early Scandinavians worshipped as the deity of hunting and shredding gnar, and to the region’s early militaries before the sport gained popularity enough to join the Olympics in 1960.

Today, athletes suit up with a

seven-pound gun slung across their back, not including ammo and magazines, then usually ski into two or four rounds, shooting half in standing position and half in prone.

The shooting portion is not timed, but extra distance or time can be added to an athlete’s total time if they miss targets, affecting their overall score.

Grossman’s teammates on the U.S. biathlon team this year include Susan Dunklee, of Craftsbury, who is also director of the Green Racing Project, Claire Egan, Joanne Reid, Deedra Irwin, Jake Brown, of Craftsbury, Paul Schommer, Sean Doherty, and Leif Nordgren, of Hinesburg.

Falling in love with biathlon has been a process for Grossman. The sport was always on her periphery, but she initially had “zero interest in it,” she recalled.

The moment she really started loving it and having fun was at a training camp in Slovenia, racing on roller skis against maybe five or six other women, and hitting almost all her targets the first prone shooting stage.

“I was like, this is super-duper fun. I understand why people do this. I then proceeded to miss a lot of the same targets, but that moment, super clearly, I remember it was really fun,” she said.

Grossman’s determination to ski faster, to shoot straighter, is also one of her favorite parts of the sport.

COURTSY PHOTO

Hallie Grossman of South Burlington raced in January at the biathlon World Cup in Ruhpolding, Germany.

“Every day is a new challenge.

You think you figured out something one day and then the next day it’s just out the window. But then other times you’ll have a few super successful days in a row when you’re feeling like, I can’t miss.

That’s awesome,” Grossman said.

Body position is important in biathlon as rifles are adjusted to fit the athlete, so if you’re off kilter by a hair, your aim will be affected. Breathing is also important, Grossman said. When she shoots

on the ground, she breathes all the way out and then fires; standing and shooting can be tricky with fewer steadying points than on the ground.

Her perseverance is also something both Grossman’s family and coach pointed out is one of her strongest assets as an athlete.

While spectating at one of Grossman’s sibling’s ski races, her parents Jim and Joy, of South Burlington, described the combination of excitement and pride they felt

when they learned Grossman was headed to the Olympics.

“Hallie kind of always wanted to do, do, do” when she was growing up, Joy Grossman said. They recalled traveling to Boston with Grossman when she was young for the kids marathon up Heartbreak Hill.

“For years, her goal was to break nine minutes,” Joy said. “I’ll say, she wasn’t the fastest runner, See GROSSMAN on page 20

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Page 18 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

SCHOOL BOARD continued from page 1

the current level of communicaFor Boyer, budgeting is about tion about planning and spend- sustainability. While schools ing, where those funds are being need to maintain services and applied and toward what goals,” provide students and staff with the Boyer said. resources they need, she noted that How funding will shake out “there’s only so much the commulong-term and how school officials nity can bear in terms of continual are monitoring student progress increases.” after returning to in-person learning are also topics she’d like to Chelsea Tillinghast, three-year term probe.

Special attention should be • What is your day job? paid to traditionally marginalSmall-business owner of ized students, like people of color Buddy’s Buddies. and people with disabilities, who • What book is on your nighthave suffered greater learning stand? “The Forever Dog” by loss, Boyer added. That’s part Rodney Habib & Karen Shaw of the foundation to practicing Becker. antiracism, she Coos from said, one of her Chelsea Till“Trying to use my top priorities as a inghast’s fourboard member. month-old white privilege to “In terms of baby could be thinking about make space and time heard as she policies that can explained why support these very for others is really she is running important goals of for the South recovery of learnimportant to me. So, Burlington ing and attending School Board.

I’ve been trying to to the differential The new mom, impact over differwho is also a find a way to be part small-business ent student groups, that’s something I owner, is lookof political change bring to the table,” ing for more she said. ways to become towards betterment Passing school involved in the budgets is an intec o m m u n i t y, for everyone.” gral responsibility Tillinghast said, of the school board and a big part of — Chelsea Tillinghast her campaign is and something the board strugequity. gled with two years ago, when One of her top issues, both the budget was shot down multi- in the district and community at ple times before being approved large, is antiracism, which until nearly six months later. recently, was a standing discussion

item on school board agendas.

“I think trying to use my white privilege to make space and time for others is really important to me. So, I’ve been trying to find a way to be part of political change toward betterment for everyone,” Tillinghast said.

She is running for the remaining two years of an open three-year seat, currently occupied by Laura Rowntree, who was appointed last fall.

The coronavirus pandemic has “shone a light on all the work that teachers do and a light on what students really need,” Tillinghast said. “I think that trying to build policy that strengthens what’s best for the kids and the staff is really important to me.”

She’s an advocate for good mental health, something that officials seem to have focused on in the proposed budget for next fiscal year. While she’s still reading through the budget, her knee-jerk reaction is to support investing in the future.

“When is a good time to invest in our kids and invest in our staff? I think it’s always a good time,” she said. “It sounds cliche, but I think kids are our future and investing in them is always a good idea.”

Kate Bailey, candidate for two-year seat • What is your day job?

Paralegal with experience in health care policy and working on state health care budgets.

• What book is on your nightstand? “The Sentence” by Louise Erdrich.

Kate Bailey, who is not relat- ground in health care policy and ed to city council candidate Linda advocacy would be helpful in the Bailey, decided to run for the district’s ongoing crisis manageSouth Burlington School Board ment responding to the coronavirus for two reasons. First, she wants to pandemic, which has gouged holes continue and advance the district’s in students’ physical, mental and equity and antisocial emotional racism work. health.

“I’m queer myself, “It’s a priorMoney dediity for me to cated to mental so I can relate to hear voices from health in the students and from proposed budget queer students in families who hold brings her hope, marginalized particular and I know but “matching identities because resources to the if you’re not really need” is about in my education, intentional about more than finanthere weren’t a lot of cial prioritizing educasupport, tion for folks on she said. Being people who showed the margins then mindful of what you’re really voices in the up like me. So, it’s going to get an district are “at education that the table” and really important doesn’t meet all taking a “bird’s students’ needs,” eye community to me for other she said, adding perspective” are that while current also important in queer kids to see efforts are admimanaging recovrable, she thinks themselves reflected ery. there’s room to “This is not grow. the year to not in education, in what “I’m queer give our teachers myself, so I can and our students they’re learning, and relate to queer what they need. students in particThis is the year in staff.” ular and I know to meet the needs in my education, the budget — Kate Bailey of there weren’t a that the district is lot of people who asking for. This showed up like me. So, it’s really is the year to do it because we are important to me for other queer still managing a crisis and playing kids to see themselves reflected in catch up in so many ways,” she education, in what they’re learn- said. ing, and in staff,” Bailey said.

As a survivor of gun violence, Second, Bailey feels her back- Bailey also brings a unique perspective on school safety that she hopes will help in policy and school environment discussions.

Last September, both South Burlington High School and F. H. Tuttle Middle School went into lockdown after a student reportedly threatened others with a gun and a knife, although police found no weapons on either campus and they determined the threat was made over the phone.

In another incidence of violence last year, a teenager fired gunshots inside the University Mall, leaving one person injured.

“Gun violence is a really important issue for schools. I know it’s a big stressor for students and I look forward to having intentional conversations about what safety means in our schools. That means different things to different people,” Bailey said.

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The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 19

Bald eagle comes off endangered list, new species, habitats added The bald eagle has been removed from the state endangered and threatened species list, but five other species and three critical habitats were added.

The bald eagle was de-listed after over a decade of restoration efforts.

“This is a milestone for Vermont,” wildlife division director Mark Scott said. “This reflects more than a decade of dedicated work by Vermont Fish & Wildlife and partners. It shows that Vermonters have the capacity to restore and protect the species and habitats that we cherish.”

That conservation capacity will be essential moving forward, Scott said.

Along with de-listings for the bald eagle and short-styled snakeroot, a flowering plant of dry woodland habitats, Thursday’s update added as endangered two invertebrates, the American bumblebee and a species of freshwater mussel known as the brook

floater, and two plant species, Houghton’s sedge and rue anemone.

State endangered species are considered at immediate risk of becoming locally extinct in Vermont.

One bird species, the eastern meadowlark, received a new designation as threatened. State threatened species are considered at risk of becoming endangered without timely conservation action.

Three important landscapes also received new designations as critical habitats that are essential for the survival of threatened or endangered species in Vermont.

The newly listed sites support species including the common tern and eastern spiny softshell turtle, as well as little brown, northern long-eared, and tricolored bats.

“These new listings reflect the stressors affecting Vermont’s plant, fish and wildlife species,” Dr. Rosalind Renfrew, wildlife

PHOTO BY JOHN HALL

A nesting pair of bald eagles in eastern Vermont.

diversity program manager, said.

“In the face of climate change and habitat loss, our mission is to

conserve these species and others to the very best of our ability on behalf of all Vermonters, who

demonstrate time and again that they care about the survival of wildlife populations.”

COMMUNITY NOTES continued from page 14

Expand Your View

spearheaded by current Burlington Garden Club co-president Jan DeSarno. Working with Age Well nutrition and wellness director Chris Moldovan, DeSarno has seen what began as a small service project expand into a yearly endeavor.

This year DeSarno and her granddaughter Sophia and grandson JD expanded the Valentine cookie endeavor to include the South Burlington Food Shelf.

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Student milestones Benjamin Tate of South Burlington made the fall 2021 semester dean’s list at Dean College.

Aaron Murakami of South Burlington made the fall 2021 semester dean’s list at Springfield College.

Hibo Jafar of South Burlington graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social science from Castleton University in December 2021.

Julia Crocker of South Burlington was named to the dean’s list for the 2021 fall semester at the University of New England.

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State charges SB man for child porn A South Burlington man, Quang Le, 58, was arraigned in state court last week for possessing child pornography.

Le pleaded not guilty Feb. 8 to two felony counts of possession of child sexual abuse material in Vermont Superior Court in Chittenden County.

The charges stemmed from a criminal investigation by the

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The task force received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about someone sharing images of child pornography through Facebook Messenger, which ultimately led investigators to Le, records show.

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A. Gregory Rainville’s order forbids Le to have any contact with minors and access to the internet and he imposed $2,000 appearance bond.

Homeland Security Investigations, Vermont State Police and the Burlington and South Burlington police departments assisted the attorney general’s office in the investigation.

GROSSMAN

continued from page 17

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but she was the most determined runner and ultimately she did.”

“That’s her. She’s determined through the wall,” Jim chimed in.

As a young athlete, Grossman skied cross-country and alpine, played hockey and rode horses, working at the barn and attending school at the same time. In high school she transferred to Stratton Mountain School then went to Bates College, where she continued skiing competitively.

The head coach for biathlon at the Green Racing Project, Michael Gibson, recalled the “harebrained idea” back in 2016 that introduced Grossman to the sport, when he and other biathlon teammates taught Grossman how to shoot by dry firing in their living room.

Now Grossman’s official coach, Gibson described her as “one of the hardest working people I know.

She can be extremely stubborn in the best way. She sees a challenge and she’s more than excited to try to break it down through sheer will.”

Grossman is open about the skills she’s working to improve.

Powering through fear, mostly while coasting downhill, is an ongoing process, she said.

Perhaps it’s like other skills that strengthen with practice, but in the meantime, Grossman has another trick to get her downhill without succumbing to fear: She’s made up a song to sing in her head, a distraction from the white slope of snow and ice careening toward her.

A few days before hopping on a plane from Germany to China, Grossman glowed with nerves and excitement. Being an alternate is a bit of a strange position, she noted, as she’s eager to race but hopes above all else that her teammates don’t get injured.

“Ultimately, I hope that I can’t race,” she said laughing. Mixed in with the Olympics excitement is an eagerness to come home — visit her family in South Burlington, tend to her vegetable garden in Craftsbury, teach youngsters about environmental science and hike in the Green Mountains.

And train for the next winter season of shredding, shooting and skiing.

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 21

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od venrything ers and animals cts, and

Golf Ball Drop and a chance to win prizes depending on where the numbered balls Page • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper land.22Proceeds from ticket sales help fund Rotary’s many projects through the year.

SERVICE DIRECTORY To advertise in the service directory email judy@otherpapersbvt.com or call 802-864-6670

Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Bear Ridge Home Improvement

call 985-3091 GEORGE GARDNER CPL, RST, CPS, CHI advertising@shelburnenews.com 884 Old Hollow Road

rconi

North Ferrisburg, VT 05473 (802) 425-3060

Certified Locksmith & Safe Technician Landscape / Lawncare Professional Security Consultant

E-mail: lockman1@comcast.net www.georgeslocks.com

or georgessafes@gmavt.net www.georges-safes.com

erapist

vermont

Rug cleaning vermontrugcleaning.com | 802.985.1178

• Basement Waterproofing • Crawl Space Repair • Sump Pump Systems • Foundation Repair • Concrete Leveling & Sealing

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• Remodeling • Bath renovations • General handy man services • Exterior siding • Painting • Rot replacement • Decking • Construction services • Remodeling • Interior painting services • Tile and hardwood flooring

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Landscape / Lawncare

Spring/Fall Siding & Trim Clean Work Up Carpentry Repairs Lawn Care Painting & Staining Landscape Design Decks & Porches Stone Work Outdoor Structures

802-343-4820 802-343-4820

www.pleasantvalleyvt.com www.pleasantvalleyvt.com

ANTIQUES WANTED Decluttering? Downsizing?

Settling an Estate?

We can help you discover, learn about and sell:

WATCHES • JEWELRY • COINS • SILVER • ARTWORK We can field questions, review photos and coordinate estate work.

Contact Brian Bittner • 802-272-7527 • bittnerantiques@gmail.com

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LOCAL?

Shape the community’s character Vermont Community Newspaper Group

Piano Lessons

Piano Lessons

Give the gift of music-making Remote and In-Person Lessons Basic, intermediate - children, teens, adults National Keyboard Arts Curriculum References, scholarships available

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Edward802-318-7030 Darling, So. Burlington

edwardjohndarling@gmail.com • 802-318-7030

1-855-DRY-TIME • www.northernnebasements.com

PLEASANT VALLEY, INC.

WHY GO

26 years experience 802-343-2708 tfortin1007@gmail.com

MOWING | MULCH/SOIL DELIVERY WEEDING | PRUNING SPRING/FALL CLEANUP | HAUL A-WAY

Lawns by Adam 802.578.8347

Adam Dantzscher | adamdantzscher@aol.com

The Other Paper Service Directory

It does a BIG job for your business for a little price.

Call 802-864-6670 for details.

The business next door donates nearly twice as much as big-box stores and online retailers to local non-profits, events and teams.

The Other Paper • February 17, 2022 • Page 23

CROSSWORD

ARIES

LEO

March 21 - April 20 Aries, you keep looking inward to realize your goals and you’re making very good progress in that regard.

Communication is a key to success, so keep dialogues open.

TAURUS April 21 - May 21 Lately you seem to radiate success in all you do, Taurus.

Others naturally want to flock to where you are and spend more time with you. Enjoy the spotlight while it lasts.

GEMINI May 22 - June 21 If communication with family members has been difficult lately, you may find that things change in the next few days, Gemini. This is a welcome change.

CANCER June 22 - July 22 Disagreements are not necessarily a bad thing, Cancer. They can open people up to discussions that can be enlightening. Disagree, but don’t let it get heated.

July 23 - Aug. 23 Romance may be on your mind a lot more than usual, Leo. This can be a good thing. Use your free time to foster nuances in your relationship.

VIRGO Aug. 24 - Sept. 22 Virgo, you may have to take a different route than you initially expected in order to reach a destination. The journey could be very eyeopening and inspirational.

LIBRA Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 In order to be the brightest and the best you can be, you may find that you rub certain people the wrong way, Libra.

Find ways to make amends.

SCORPIO Oct. 24 - Nov. 22 Scorpio, a challenging week ahead will require some focus and a willingness to accept support. Surround yourself with people who have your back.

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 fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure 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 An especially busy social schedule may leave you feeling a little tired for some time. Schedule some time for rest and relaxation to recharge your batteries.

CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 A great deal of unexpected information is coming your way, Capricorn. You may have to sort through it to figure out what is useful and what is not essential.

AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 18 Don’t neglect the help that people are willing to offer you, Aquarius. Teamwork makes the dream work, and working with others is beneficial to all involved.

PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 Use creativity in any way you can to solve issues that come your way, Pisces. You may be surprised at what you come up with.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Remain as is 5. Functional 11. News magazine 12. Popular treat 16. Area units 17. Artificial intelligence 18. Marten valued for its fur 19. Forms of matter 24. Home of the Dodgers 25. Bordering 26. Part of the eye 27. It might be nervous 28. Visualizes 29. Crest of a hill 30. Measures engine speed (abbr.)

31. Tears in a garment (Br. Eng.) 33. Not easily explained 34 Song in short stanzas 38. Detonations 39. Intestinal 40. EU cofounder PaulHenri __ 43. Balmy 44. New Mexico mountain town 45. Gobblers 49. Insecticide 50. Golf scores 51. Has its own altar

53. “Pollock” actor Harris 54. Being livable 56. NHL play-by-play man 58. “The Great Lakes State” (abbr.)

59. Unpainted 60. Swam underwater 63. Native American people 64. Containing salt 65. Exam

29. Spiritual part of an individual (ancient Egypt) 30. Hot beverage 31. Pouch 32. It followed the cassette 33. Large northern deer 34. Ones who offer formally 35. Famed genie 36. Bequeathed CLUES DOWN 37. Skeletal muscle 1. Small bone in middle 38. Atomic #56 ear 40. Silk garment 2. Long, angry speech 41. They deliver the mail 3. Move out of 42. Equally 4. Male organ 44. Check 5. Two-toed sloth 45. Light-colored breed of 6. Making dirty hound 7. Article 46. Drug that soothes 8. Oil company 47. Railroads 9. Emits coherent radiation 48. Most slick 10. Amounts of time 50. Jacket 13. Unit equal to one 51. A radio band quintillion bytes (abbr.) 52. Hello 14. Forbidden by law 54. His and __ 15. Drains away 55. Supporter 20. Not out 57. Popular software suite 21. Sea patrol (abbr.) (abbr.)

22. Bird genus 61. Railway 23. Gratuity 62. NY coastal region 27. __ and feathers (abbr.)

ANSWERS

Page 24 • February 17, 2022 • The Other Paper

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