Turtle time
Held over
Stay alert near ponds, wetlands while driving
Feds keep SB man in custody over death threats
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VOLUME 46, NO. 22
Five candidates jostle for three Senate seats New House candidates run unopposed AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER
Vermont’s General Assembly will see historic turnover this year, with numerous retirements and many legislators complaining of being overworked in a crucial role that has neither staff, nor office space nor compensation that covers much more than a ride to the Statehouse. But with that overturn, and newly drawn voting districts across the state, a swath of freshman legislators are likely to shake up Montpelier. Who will South Burlington be sending to the House next session and who will represent the new Chittenden Southeast Senate District? Most likely, not a member of the GOP. All the House candidates are Democrats and South Burlington city clerk Donna Kinville
noted that she did not receive any petitions from Republicans.
House of Representatives South Burlington’s growing population in the years leading up to the 2020 census earned it a fifth House seat in recent redistricting, in addition to the four currently held by Reps. Ann Pugh, John Killacky, Maida Townsend and Martin LaLonde. The only incumbent planning to return to the House is LaLonde, who hopes to keep his seat to finish up some “unfinished business,” he said. The Midwest native, who has served in the Legislature for eight years, sits on the House Committee on Judiciary, the committee on judicial rule, where he serves as chair, and is now part of majority leadership. He has degrees from the University of Michigan BusiSee CANDIDATES on page 12
Report overstates city center job growth PHOTO BY AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY
World War II veteran Dick Boera recited the poem “In Flanders Field” at South Burlington’s Memorial Day ceremony last Friday.
South Burlington celebrates fallen heroes South Burlington residents and officials honored veterans, past and present, at a ceremony last week in commemoration of Memorial Day. South Burlington resident
Dick Boera, a World War II veteran, recited a poem at the city’s event at Veteran’s Memorial Park. The poem he chose, “In Flanders Fields,” was written by Lt.
Col. and Canadian physician John McCrae and was inspired by the author’s late friend and fellow soldier Lt. Alexis Helmer See MEMORIAL DAY on page 10
AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER
One glaring error in an April report from the Vermont League of Cities and Towns claimed South Burlington created 1,857 more jobs in its tax increment financing district than it actually did. Only 71 new jobs have grown out of the city’s TIF district, where the new city hall and public library now sit, but the report, which was conducted by a third party and later
corrected, initially stated that 1,928 new jobs were created. Ted Brady, executive director of Vermont League of Cities and Towns, explained the mistakes were due to a simple miscalculation on a spreadsheet by a third party, but that none of the errors changes the overall analysis of the report, nor should they take away from the findings. “The report and analysis show See JOBS on page 11
Page 2 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
Turtle time: Drivers asked to slow down Stay alert, especially near ponds and wetlands
PHOTO BY LUKE GROFF
Turtles are out digging their nests and may be on the shoulders of roads. Drivers are urged to keep an eye out for them.
Vermont’s turtles will be on the move this spring, and state wildlife officials are asking for the public’s help in keeping them safe. Female turtles will be looking for places to deposit eggs, sometimes choosing to lay them along the shoulders of roads, which can bring them into the path of motor vehicles. “Turtles often move across roads as they search for a nest site,” said Luke Groff, biologist for the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. “They are usually slow-moving animals, so they have a tough time making it safely across the road. Turtles grow slowly and live a long time, so losing a mature breeding female may be a huge loss to a turtle population.” Turtle nesting activity peaks between late May and early June, and drivers are urged to keep an eye out for turtles on the road —
especially when driving near ponds and wetlands. “When you spot a turtle in the road, you may be able to help it across. First be sure you’re in a safe spot to stop and get out of your car, as human safety comes first,” said Groff. “If you’re going to move a turtle off the road, always move it in the direction it was traveling. They know where they’re going.” Most turtles can be picked up and carried across the road. However, if the turtle has no colorful lines, spots or other markings, it is probably a snapping turtle, so people should stay alert to avoid being bitten. Snapping turtles’ necks are long. Instead of picking up the snapper, try pushing the turtle across the road with a shovel or pulling it across the road on a car floor mat.
Public works tackles summer paving, new tennis courts AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY STAFF WRITER
With warmer weather comes gardening, swimming, summer and Vermont’s paving season. In South Burlington, road construction and other public
works projects are underway or starting in the next few months. Public works director Tom DiPietro noted his department recently finished some major paving on Gregory Drive, Mountain View Boulevard, Victory Drive and White Face and Swift
streets. Rain has been a factor, DiPietro said, making paving efforts a little inconsistent, but the city remains on a forward path. Paving of the recreation path on Kimball Avenue, as part of the city’s larger project to fix the underlying culvert and repair a
broken bridge, finished up last week. Some landscaping and marking on the roads will come later, but otherwise that project is “pretty much done,” he said. Later this summer or early fall, the city will pave the next section of Dorset Street — one of the most
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highly trafficked thoroughfares in the city — from Garden Street to Aspen Drive. DiPietro said that timeline will depend on the price of pavement. Another big public works project coming to South Burlington will be the replacement of traffic signals on Dorset Street, from Williston to Kennedy Drive. The new software is intended to make the intersection more efficient for both cars and pedestrians. “That’ll be good, it will bring in some pedestrian crossing improvements which will be wonderful,” DiPietro said. He’s waiting on one final permit from the Vermont Department of Transportation then plans to go out to bid. With supply chain issues and higher prices, the timeline is a little “up in the air,” he added. South Burlington parks are getting some TLC as well thanks to the city parks and recreation department. Staff is repaving the basketball courts in Szymanski Park and painting fresh lines and replacing hoops. Tennis courts are also getting fresh pavement, lines and nets. Four of the courts will transition to pickleball with new lines and nets, with the project currently out to bid, DiPietro said. In new stormwater developments, a project to build a gravel wetland at the Burlington Country Club will keep close to three See PAVING on page 3
The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 3
Chris Winters runs for secretary of state Political Notebook Chris Winters At the end of June, absentee ballots will be available and Vermonters to begin casting their votes to determine party nominees for fall elections. With so many candidates running, you may not hear much about the secretary of state’s race, but I urge you to take a closer look. As the current deputy secretary to Jim Condos, who is retiring, I can tell you that every Vermonter, every day, is affected by the work we do. The office registers businesses, regulates 80,000 licensed professionals, maintains state records, issues vital records, assists municipalities, provides campaign finance and lobbyist disclosures, and last, but certainly not least, oversees Vermont’s elections. A well-run secretary of state’s office makes Vermonters’ lives safer, easier and better. Without the right person in charge, Vermont will see an immediate impact in public safety, the economy, government transparency and even democracy itself. I’m running for secretary of state to make sure our elections are safe and secure, our voters have access to voting and to their government, our businesses have the support they need to operate successfully, and our office is transparent, responsive and helpful to all Vermonters at all times. These aren’t just talking points for me, they are deliverables. As a veteran public servant and deputy secretary for the last seven years, I have delivered on these promises time and time again. I’ll use my experience and knowledge to ensure stability and continuity at a time when conducting elections and running an agency has gotten more complicated than ever, at a time when it feels like everything we thought to be true is constantly changing. As the first person in my family to go to college and the father of four children, I’m driven to make my state a better place — whether that’s as a community volunteer, a school board chair or as a baseball coach — and I want to solve problems and be of service. As an attorney, I’m committed to fair-
Chris Winters
ness and leveling the playing field for everyone. As a Vermonter, I want to leave things better than I found them. Fortunately, I have gotten to do that every day as deputy secretary of state. I have worked hard to protect and preserve voting rights and ballot access for all Vermonters through safe, secure and accurate elections. In fact, Vermont has received the No. 1 ranking in elections performance of all 50 states from Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s elections
performance index in the last two presidential elections and leads the way for other states. I have created a nationally recognized system of rightsized professional regulation that protects the public while eliminating unnecessary red tape. In other words, regulations that go far enough to protect the public, but not too far so as to interfere with employment or the marketplace. I fought hard for the creation of an ethics commission, a one-stop business portal, efficient online services, and have been a strong advocate for transparency, accountability and the public’s right to know. These are just a few of many examples of how the Vermont Secretary of State’s Office is making a difference for Vermonters. I want to continue those successes and build upon them. I will keep fighting to make things safer, easier, and better. In these uncertain times, I believe Vermonters want security, stability and experienced leadership they can trust. I am ready to lead on day one.
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Community college holds commencement The Community College of Vermont will hold its 2022 commencement ceremony at Norwich University’s Shapiro Field House in Northfield Saturday, June 4, at 2 p.m. More than 450 students will be awarded associate degrees. Dr. Wanda Heading-Grant will be this year’s keynote speaker. Vice provost for diversity, equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer at Carnegie Mellon University, Heading-Grant formerly served as the University of Vermont’s vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion. This year’s student speaker is Kirsten Kersey, who attended Community College of Vermont’s Upper Valley academic center. Kersey has been an active member of the
Upper Valley’s youth services community, having worked for the Junction Youth Center and Hartford Youth Council. She will earn an associate degree in behavioral science and plans to pursue a career in youth services. Director of HireAbility Vermont (formerly VocRehab) Diane Dalmasse will receive the Community Service Award. For more than 30 years, Dalmasse has worked to help Vermonters with disabilities access career pathways and find meaningful employment. College president Joyce Judy will officiate the event, Gov. Phil Scott will address the Class of 2022, and members of the Vermont State College Systems board of trustees will attend.
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continued from page 2 gallons of phosphorous pollution out of Lake Champlain every year, according to the city. South Burlington and Burlington Country Club were awarded a grant from the Mount Ascutney
Braces for Children & Adults | champlainortho.net
Regional Commission, formerly the Southern Windsor County Regional Planning Commission, in 2020 to fund the engineering design of the new stormwater treatment system. The project is
expected to reduce the peak flow of a one-year, 24-hour storm event by 97 percent and will reduce the amount of phosphorus going to Lake Champlain by 10.5 kg per year.
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Page 4 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
CRIME & COURTS South Burlington Police Blotter Total incidents: 224 Welfare checks: 21 Public assists: 15 Traffic stops: 11 Agency assist: 10 Alarms: 10 Larceny: 9 Disturbance: 9 Car crashes (no injuries): 8 Unlawful mischief/vandalism: 8 Retail theft: 7 Top incidents: May 22 at 8:08 a.m., someone reported an animal problem on Pinnacle Drive. May 22 at 11:07 a.m., police investigated a case of unlawful mischief and vandalism on Suburban Square. May 23 at 7:15 a.m., police responded to a reported juvenile problem on Dorset Street. May 23 at 7:14 p.m., police investigated a report of child abuse and neglect on Williston Road. May 24 at 8:25 a.m., police responded to Shelburne Road for a reported assault. May 24 at 1:27 p.m., police assisted a citizen on Stonehedge Drive. May 25 at 9:19 a.m., someone
reported a car crash that had occurred earlier on Williston Road. May 25 at 4:02 p.m., officers checked on someone’s wellbeing at Lime Kiln Road. May 26 at 10:06 a.m., police conducted a traffic stop near the University Mall. May 26 at 1:01 p.m., police responded to the University Mall for a report of retail theft. May 27 at 7:09 a.m., someone on Shelburne Road reported a case of larceny to police. May 27 at 4:31 p.m., a car crash on Shelburne Road caused some property damage but no injuries. May 28 at 2:16 a.m., police responded to Farrell Street for a reported domestic incident. May 28 at 10:49 a.m., police assisted responding to a reported overdose at Baycrest Drive. May 28 at 6 p.m., a car crash on Kennedy Drive and Kimball Avenue caused some property damage but no injuries. May 29 at 1:32 a.m., someone reported a case of fraud on Dorset Street. See BLOTTER on page 13
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Feds hold man accused of making death threats a gag order imposed on Vermont State Police by U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest. The judges were A South Burlington man not identified. Kerest declined multiple charged with making death threats against a Vermont state judge will requests for an interview. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy stay behind bars to keep victims and Vermonters safe, a federal Fuller told the court that there are “hundreds and hundreds” of magistrate ruled Monday. phone calls made by Joshua P. Puma, 35, Puma from prison since of South Burlington, he was detained on state will remain in the custocharges in 2019. dy of the U.S. Marshals Fuller said George Service because there is very concerned about was some question that Puma being released and he might get released at that she is taking extra some point if sent to the security precautions. state hospital or prison Judge Doyle noted system. that a pre-trial report Magistrate Judge indicated that Puma has Kevin Doyle said he Joshua P. Puma used heroin, cocaine, wanted to ensure federcrack, LSD in the past, al authorities retained control of Puma now that he has but has pretty much stopped using been charged in U.S. District drugs because he has been jailed since March 2019. Court. Puma said in court he’d been Puma, formerly of Shelburne, pleaded not guilty to the three treated for drug addiction in 2015. South Burlington Police said felony charges. Puma is named in a three- last week it has spent considerable count indictment that mentions time dealing with Puma, including three death threats to the judicia- an arrest for stalking that involved ry and one to a defense lawyer. It a neighbor on Williston Road near also maintains Puma threatened Heath Street. It is believed the threats to sexually assault Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah included in the indictment stem from Puma being detained in the George. It is unclear how many state stalking case last fall at the Southjudges were threatened because of ern State Correctional Facility in MICHAEL DONOGHUE CORRESPONDENT
Springfield. The indictment maintains Puma used the Department of Corrections phone to: • Threaten the life of a state judge and public defender Sarah Reed on Sept. 30, 2021. • Threaten the life of a state judge and to sexually assault a state’s attorney, George, on Oct. 26, 2021. • Threaten the life of a state judge on Nov. 30, 2021. The government said in court papers that it wants Puma detained pending trial because he presents a significant danger to the community. There are no known conditions of release that “would assure the safety of the community, especially the safety of the people Puma threatened to kill, assault and maim,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in court papers. As Assistant Federal Defender Sarah Puls and Fuller battled over the possible release of Puma, Fuller proposed playing the recordings for the judge, but the court declined. During the hearing, it was disclosed that a state judge had found Puma incompetent to stand trial in a state prosecution and there are two court orders directing him to the state hospital for a 90-day evaluation. Doyle said he saw a major problem releasing Puma to the state hospital for three months and then having a fight where he should go after. “Puma specifically indicates in the threats that when he is released from jail, he will kill and maim those state officials, in addition to harming and killing other members of the legal community. The nature of this offense alone compels Puma’s detention pending trial,” Fuller wrote. “Puma has been in and out of the state criminal justice system for many years, and in September 2019, while in state court, he punched his defense attorney in the face which caused her to fall to the ground. It then took five security officers to restrain him,” Fuller said in her detention motion. She said Puma later pleaded guilty to assaulting his attorney and was sentenced to 4-12 months.
The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 5
OPINION Schools, board welcome equity director, Deatrice Loftin-Davis From the School Board Dr. Travia Childs On July 1, Deatrice “De-Dee” Loftin-Davis will begin in her new role as the South Burlington School District’s first executive director of equity. The school board unanimously approved the administration’s recommendation to have her join our district. I wanted to share a little about her in this month’s column from the school board. As a child, Loftin-Davis experienced racism and now as a woman she continues to fight against all types of racism. Her career began as a bank compliance manager and she was then promoted to human resources as a diversity and inclusion manager.
A Black woman, civil rights advocate, entrepreneur and lifelong activist for racial equity, climate and water justice and racial inclusiveness, Loftin-Davis balanced her professional career with numerous community volunteer activities to stay abreast of what was happening in her community. Over the last 20 years, she has held different board positions, including NAACP communication chair, community organizer and fundraiser in chapters in Norristown, Dublin and Ambler, all in Pennsylvania. She helped organize and march with Black Lives Matter in the Hatfield, Dublin, and Ambler areas. As a senior racial equity consultant, she led the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) office in racial equity and
social justice activism. Loftin-Davis has worked on committees that have raised over $2 million for nonprofits and civil rights organizations, all while working with diverse community leaders to help unify and actively advocate for their communities. She regularly and actively found opportunities to listen, engage and unite two vastly different White House administrations — an extremely racist administration and, now, a more racially inclusive one. “Three of the most pressing challenges of my previous position were employee retention, white supremacy workplace culture and team unity,” she has said. “As a leader with multi-capabilities in inclusive leadership I lead with
authenticity, along with a people and community focus mindset in equity, belonging, education, accountability, justice and respect.” So, who is Deatrice Loftin-Davis? She is a woman of color who qualified for the position of executive director of equity in the South Burlington School District based on her experiences that transformed her into the strong woman we see today. Her passion for racial equity and social justice, civil rights advocacy, and a lifelong activism for racial equity, climate and water justice, and racial inclusiveness is illustrated in her exhilarating personality. I asked Loftin-Davis how she feels about her selection as executive director of equity, and
she said, “Great future coworkers with leads on housing and eyes on the ground.” She said she has received a “proactive feeling of being welcomed and tremendous support.” Someone posed the question to me, asking how I felt about having another person of color in a leadership position? I am overwhelmed with happiness because the playing field is changing. Our students will benefit from seeing another person in leadership who looks like them. Moreover, I am enthusiastic about what Loftin-Davis will bring to South Burlington’s schools. It is time for a change. Dr. Travia Childs is chair of the South Burlington School Board.
Letters to the Editor Other Paper: Work harder to fact check letters To the Editor: Last week’s edition of the Other Paper published a letter by Sheldon Katz (“Clean Heat standard is just more snake oil,” May 26, 2022). The letter is filled with dangerous misinformation and falsehoods about the climate crisis. As most understand, there is an urgent need to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions — mostly carbon dioxide — to avoid a catastrophic future. On our present course, coral reefs will disappear, cities will flood, bread baskets that feed the world will shrivel under withering drought, ecosystems will fail. In short, our children will suffer tremendous loss. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change — an organization that gathers the leading scientists from 195 countries — bluntly states that “climate change is a threat to human well-being and planetary health. Any further delay in concerted anticipatory global action on adaptation and mitigation will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a livable and sustainable future for all.” While not all letters can be fact checked, I would implore the Other Paper to exercise editorial discretion when printing false information that impacts the fate of everything. Andrew Chalnick Vice-chair, South Burlington
Climate Action Task Force Member, South Burlington Planning Commission
Superintendents reach out after latest killing spree To the Editor: On behalf of the Champlain Valley Superintendents Association, we want to express our disbelief and grief regarding the news of another senseless school shooting that took place last week at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. The teachers, students and families of the Uvalde community are in our thoughts as we all face our individual district communities. While our districts have reached out to our own school communities today, we are united in our response to this unacceptable and horrific act of violence. The Vermont Agency of Education has also released a statement on this event. We want to assure families and staff that all our districts regularly participate in crisis drills and training and we have a number of protections in place to make sure our schools are safe for all students. We have shared resources with our students and staff members knowing that everyone will process this tragedy differently. We often talk of the impact we as educators have on the growth of each student in our building. Many times, this work goes beyond the classroom. We are leaning on our educators, school
clinicians and counselors today and likely in the days and months to come for their strength, care and resilience. It is now more important than ever to talk with our children and each other, listen and empathize. When students feel down, they need to know that we care about them and are there for them. We are encouraging our staff and students to talk every chance they can because it matters. Acknowledging this sad and unfortunate situation is important. If anyone needs help and assistance, please communicate with us, your individual school counselors, principals, teachers, clinicians or other trusted individuals that can help. We hope, at some point, these messages will no longer need to be written and our schools, here in Vermont and nationwide, can feel safe for all. David Young, South Burlington Tom Flanagan, Burlington Amy Minor, Colchester Beth Cobb, Essex Westford Amy Rex, Milton Rene Sanchez, Champlain Valley Schools Sheila Soule, Addison Northwest Kevin Dirth, Winooski Lynn Cota, Franklin Northeast John Tague, Franklin West Dana Peterson, Hannaford Career Center Julie Regimbal, Missisquoi Bill Kimball, Maple Run Michael Clark, Grand Isle John Alberghini, Mount Mansfield Peter Burrows, Addison Central
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Page 6 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
Stop pretending guns aren’t part of our gun problem Poor Elijah’s Almanack Peter N. Berger Ten years ago, after Sandy Hook, a plaintive headline begged, “Can we now talk about guns?” It was a response to the perennial Republican assertion that the grief-stricken, furious aftermath of tragedy isn’t the best time to craft firearms regulations. Four years ago, after Parkland, House Speaker Paul Ryan urged that we “pray,” “take a breath and collect the facts.”
He warned against politicizing the murder of 17 high school students. I pray, and I try to heed facts. But how many more facts about mass shootings do we need? How many more prayers in the absence of action will we have the gall to offer grieving parents? How many shoppers must die in the produce aisle? Politics is more than self-exculpatory rhetoric and partisan combat. It’s the application of legitimate government power to problems we share. In that sense it’s time we do
politicize this issue. The Second Amendment was adopted to enable citizens to protect themselves and their republic. Commentators have interpreted the amendment in the context of a state’s right to maintain a “well-regulated militia” as a hedge against prospective tyranny and as a free citizenry’s inherent right to self-defense. An individual right to keep and bear arms wasn’t formally affirmed by the Supreme Court until 2008. Justice Antonin Scalia, writing the court’s majority opinion, made clear that “the
Safety
Planning any spring planting or other digging projects?
If you plan to do any type of digging on your property, you or your contractor must contact Dig Safe™ at 811 at least 48 hours prior to digging. Before the work begins, Dig Safe will notify member utilities, who will then ensure the locations of buried facilities they own are clearly marked. Please insist that any work within 18 inches of the marked lines be done by hand.
Keep landscaping and large objects away from your meter Please do not place mulch, topsoil or rocks in contact with your meter. Be careful when mowing and report any damage. If your meter is located where large objects, such as vehicles or dumpsters, could collide with it, a barricade should be installed. Contact us about barricade options at 802-863-4511. During summer, you may see VGS representatives outside your home inspecting our system and painting meters. BANG/County Courier.indd 1
How to Detect a Gas Leak Smell
Natural gas is normally odorless. A distinctive, pungent odor, similar to rotten eggs, is added so that you will recognize it quickly.
Sight You may see a white cloud, mist, fog, bubbles in standing water, or blowing dust. You may also see vegetation that appears to be dead or dying.
Sound You may hear an unusual noise like a roaring, hissing, or whistling.
If You Suspect a Leak: Move immediately to a safe location. Call VGS at 1-800-6398081, or call 911, with the exact location. Do not smoke or operate electrical switches or appliances. These items may produce a spark that might ignite the gas or result in a dangerous condition. Do not assume someone else will report the condition.
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Second Amendment right is not unlimited … not a right to keep and carry any weapon whatsoever in any manner whatsoever and for whatever purpose.” Federal, state and local governments can ban weapons considered “dangerous and unusual,” regulate the sale of weapons and prohibit their possession by certain citizens including “felons and the mentally ill.” The government can impose “concealed weapons prohibitions” and laws that forbid carrying “firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings.” I believe the Second Amendment establishes an individual right to keep and bear arms. But I also believe its first half that talks about a well-regulated militia permits our government to make rules about gun ownership and use. For heaven’s sake, “well-regulated” is part of the amendment. Opponents of gun restrictions worry about a slippery slope where one rule leads to another until their right disappears. I’m sympathetic. The First Amendment is especially dear to me, so I’ve got slippery slope fears and objections, too. Except the government can and has made laws that restrain speech. Slander and speech that poses a clear and present danger, for example, are subject to restriction. In the same way, we already have restrictions on gun ownership. Both presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan both signed laws limiting automatic weapons. Eleven states ban armor-piercing bullets. You can’t buy a howitzer at Dick’s. The Constitution isn’t meant to be interpreted absent reason and common sense. No one would argue that the First Amendment’s protection of the free exercise of religion guarantees an American Aztec’s right to offer human sacrifice. That’s because his right to practice his religion is outweighed by his victim’s unalienable right to life. No right is absolute. The Second Amendment exists in a context, not a vacuum. It isn’t above all other rights. Our government was instituted to protect our rights, but those rights extend beyond the right to bear arms. The question isn’t whether we can regulate firearm ownership and use. Reason and the Second Amendment itself tell us we can. In fact, the amendment’s language imposes a responsibility to well-regulate firearms. I appreciate the argument that lawbreakers won’t respect
gun laws, and that law-abiding citizens should be able to protect themselves. It’s true no course of action will eliminate every bad act. But we can’t shrink from making laws just because some people won’t obey them, especially when we repeatedly witness the devastating result of broadly unrestricted gun ownership. We have problems. Many American homes are dysfunctional. Many American children suffer as a result. We’ve spent two generations stroking children’s self-esteem. In the process we’ve stunted their power to deal with adversity. We talk about grit and resiliency, but for many, every slight, every rebuff is an affront that warrants retribution. In extreme cases that retribution is extreme. Discipline theories, trauma-based classroom practices and anti-bullying programs trade in well-intentioned, smug nonsense. Gun violence at school should outrage us, but we should also be outraged by the trauma students suffer every day at the hands of violent, disruptive peers. Schools should take prudent precautions against foreseeable hazards, but schools should never be fortresses. It’s their nature to be soft targets because children live there. Critics pillory law enforcement agencies for failing to track aberrant behavior and threats that foreshadow violence. As tragic as those lapses may be, they aren’t deliberate acts. The same cannot be said about the law our 45th president deliberately signed that repealed restrictions on people with mental illness and their ability to purchase a gun, or the Senate’s deliberate vote permitting subjects on the terrorist watch list to purchase guns, or gun lobbyists’ deliberate marketing promotions, or legislators’ willing susceptibility to extortion and contributions. The same cannot be said about malignant talking heads who exacerbate our race-based, gender-based and faith-based fears and differences. I began writing this in the wake of the supermarket murders. A thousand words later, another 19 schoolchildren and two of their teachers are dead. It’s ludicrous to pretend that guns aren’t part of our gun problem. No good will come if we do nothing good. Vermont-based writer Peter Berger has taught English and history for 30 years.
The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 7
COMMUNITY Community Notes South Burlington Land Trust holds annual meet The South Burlington Land Trust will hold its 2022 annual meeting at the Wheeler Nature Park Homestead, Sunday, June 5, 3-6:30 p.m. Activities start at 3 p.m. with a bird walk led by Allan Strong, followed by a short business meeting to elect directors and officers, review annual reports, approve minutes and offer members an opportunity to ask questions. The land trust’s annual award presentation, potluck meal and social time will follow the business meeting. Bring a beach chair or picnic blanket for personal use. If there is a credible forecast of rain June 5, check for social media updates.
Get out for safe fun at Thursday Night Takeout Thursday Night Takeout runs every Thursday through June, 5-8 p.m., Veterans Memorial Park, 1000 Dorset St. Grab a bite to eat, play on the playground, fly a kite or just picnic and relax while enjoying the outdoors. A rotation of food trucks are scheduled each week.
Bank expands into Williston with new branch Community Bank opened a new branch in Williston Thursday, May 19. A grand-opening event featured food trucks, appearances from K9 Duke and Rally Cat and gardening demonstrations from Vermont Community Garden Network. After the ribbon-cutting, bicycle helmets were given out to the first 30 children, followed by a mountain bike drawing. The event also featured “vote for your favorite charity” throughout the day for the Williston Comfort K9 Program, Williston Community Food Shelf and National Alliance on Mental Illness. After voting closed, the National Alliance on Mental Illness and Williston Comfort K9 Program received $2,500, and the food shelf received $5,000.
Catholic church hosts presentation on Article 22 On Thursday, June 9, 6:30 p.m., at St. Catherine of Siena Parish Hall, 72 Church St. in Shelburne, Deacon Pete Gummere will speak on Article 22, the proposed amendment to the Vermont Constitution, in a program titled “Moral and Practical Issues with Vermont’s Reproductive
COURTESY PHOTO
Members of the South Burlington Business Association listen to a talk by Nicole LaBrecque of PC Construction May 12.
City business association holds annual meeting Nicole LaBrecque, vice president of PC Construction, spoke to member businesses of the South Burlington Business Association May 12 at the group’s annual meeting. She talked about ongoing projects at the company as well as how it weathered the pandemic with supply chain issues and employee shortages. Liberty Amendment.” Gummere teaches, speaks, writes and consults on bioethics. He has served as an adjunct faculty member at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio. He holds master’s degrees in biological science and theology. He is a member of the International Association of Catholic Bioethicists, the National Catholic Bioethics Center, and a clergy member of the Catholic Medical Association. He is certified by the National Catholics Bioethics Center. Everyone is welcome.
A sizeable turnout included several new members, including Brilliant Massage & Skin, Conley Construction & Property Management, and Green Square Consulting. The association has over 100 members and helps to foster the city’s business environment through regular educationment in academics, extracurricular activities and work in their community, show promise of becoming the next generation of women leaders. Thrive Education Advising Group, which created the scholarship this year, believes in mentoring, guiding and offering educational assistance to young women seeking positive change. Gloria Kigonya of Colchester High School was the other recipient.
al meetings, communications and deliberations on issues affecting the business community. Businesses considering membership are welcome to attend a meeting for free. For more information, contact Julie Beatty at sbbabiz@gmail.com or visit sbbabiz.com.
Stitchers want you! Embroidery guild meets Green Mountain Embroidery Guild will meet Wednesday, June 8, at 9:30 a.m. at the Holy Family Catholic Church, 30 Lincoln St., Essex Junction. Everyone is welcome to see what projects can done with a threaded needle, all levels and interests. Bring a snack, optional mask and a project to stitch. Call 802-879-0198 for more information.
SB student gets Women Thriving Scholarship Minelle Sarfo-Adu of South Burlington High School has received a Women Thriving Scholarship. She will receive $1,000. Selection criteria focused on candidates who, through demonstrated achieve-
OtherPaperSBVT.com Get the News of South Burlington 24/7
ALL PLAY. ALL DAY. Summer’s here at Basin Harbor. Come rent a paddleboard, kayak, sailboat, or powerboat to work up an appetite, and then join us for lunch or dinner at The Red Mill. Find out all there is to do and eat at BasinHarbor.com.
Page 8 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
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Twin-State hockey classic returns The annual Make-A-Wish Twin State All-Star Hockey Classic celebrates its 30th year for its men’s game on 2022 and the 25th year for the women. Games return to University of Vermont’s Gutterson Field House Saturday, June 25, beginning with the women’s match-up at 4 p.m. with the men following at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students 7-17, free for kids 6 and under, and will be available at the door. The classic pits top high school seniors from Vermont against rival New Hampshire players. All proceeds from the event benefit Make-A-Wish Vermont. The hockey clas-
sic has raised more than $320,000 over the years. Local all-star women include Katie Craig, Rice Memorial, South Burlington; Grace Ferguson, Champlain Valley Union, Williston; and Sofie Richland, South Burlington High School, South Burlington. Local all-star men include Jack Averill, Champlain Valley Union, Shelburne; Shane Burke, South Burlington High School; Jackman Hickey, Rice Memorial, Stowe; DaeHan McHugh, Rice Memorial, Colchester; and Garrett Micciche, Rice Memorial, Burlington. For more: allstarhockeyclassicvtnh.org.
Green Mountain Bicycle Club June rides For rules of the road, liability waivers and other club information, visit thegmbc. com. Saturday, June 4 Introductory ride for new riders: 12-20 miles at a leisurely pace. Meet at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, South Burlington, Wheeler lot. Leader is John Bertelsen, jo.bertel@gmail.com. Sunday, June 5 Champlain Bridge Ride: Out Lake Road and across the bicycle-friendly Champlain Bridge. The 43-mile route stops at Crown Point while the 55-mile route makes a loop on the New York side through Port Henry. Separate social ride will start at the Champlain Maritime Museum and include lunch at the Red Barn restaurant at Basin Harbor. Contact Donna Leban at lightspd@comcast.
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net to sign up. Meet at 8:45 a.m. at Vergennes Union High School, Monkton Road, east parking lot. Leader is Kevin Batson, kevbvt@gmail. com. Saturday, June 11 Hinesburg-Monkton Gravel Roads: 41 miles on rolling gravel hills. These are mainly very quiet Meet at 9:15 a.m. at Hinesburg Park and Ride. Leader is Brian Howard, bjhowd@ gmail.com. Saturday, June 11 Introductory ride for new riders: 12-20 miles at a leisurely pace. Meet at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, South Burlington, Wheeler lot. Leader is Dawn Fragola, dfragola1127@ gmail.com.
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The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 9
SPORTS Softball to playoffs as No. 2 seed LAUREN READ CORRESPONDENT
Softball South Burlington 6, Missisquoi 5 (10): South Burlington wrapped up the regular season in dramatic fashion Thursday, May 26, in walk-off fashion, beating Missisquoi in the 10th inning. Tori Smith hit a two-run double in the bottom of the 10th to deliver the win for the Wolves, who finish the regular season at 13-3. Emily Borrazzo pitched a complete game, allowing four runs and nine hits while striking out nine. She also added a home run and two RBIs. Smith finished with a three RBIs, while Sofie Richland chipped in with a triple. The 13-3 record earns South Burlington the No. 2 seed in the Division I softball and a first-round bye to start the playoffs.
Boys’ lacrosse Burr and Burton 11, South Burlington 10 (OT): South Burlington gave up a lead in the fourth quarter and fell in overtime in the final game of the regular season Thursday. Nick Miceli scored the game winner with under two minutes to play in overtime to give Burr and Burton Academy the win. The victory also gave the academy the No. 2 seed in the upcoming DI playoffs, while South Burlington is the No. 3 seed. Rex Jewell had four goals to pace the Wolves, who finish with a 10-4 record. Ryan Sweet added
three goals and two assists, while Will Goyette made 13 saves in goal. South Burlington will face No. 6 Woodstock on Thursday in the quarterfinals.
2 seed in the DI playoffs, and a firstround bye. The girls will play the winner of No. 7 Middlebury/No. 10 Burlington matchup in the quarterfinals on Friday.
Baseball
Boys’ tennis
South Burlington 9, Rice 8 (9): Luke Fitzgerald hit a single in the bottom of the ninth to drive home the winning run and lead South Burlington to 9-8 win in extra innings Thursday. Sully Beers got the W in relief, pitching two innings and giving up one run on two hits. Andre Bouffard had two runs and two RBIs and Fitzgerald finished with two hits and a RBI. The Wolves finished the season at 9-7 and earned the No. 8 seed in the DI playoffs. South Burlington will take on No. 9 Mount Anthony on Tuesday, May 31, in the playdowns.
The South Burlington boys’ tennis team earned the No. 7 seed in the postseason. They will face No. 10 Rice on Wednesday, June 1, in the playdowns at 3 p.m. If the Wolves win, they will face the winner of match between No. 2 St. Johnsbury and No. 15 Harwood in the quarterfinals on Thursday, June 2, at 3 p.m. South Burlington beat Rice 5-2 in its only meeting of the regular season and will look to duplicate that play to advance to the second round.
Girls’ lacrosse South Burlington 15, Mount Mansfield 5: Girls’ lacrosse finished the regular season on Thursday with its eighth win in a row, a 15-5 victory over Mount Mansfield. Sam Crane and Mia Kaczmarek each had four goals. Ava Goyette and Miranda Hayes each tallied twice, while Rachel Kelley, Mercedes Rozzi and Elsa Nygaard-Otsby each chipped in with a goal. Greta Heldman stopped six shots in goal to earn the win. The Wolves finished the season with a 13-2 record. South Burlington earned the No.
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Girls’ tennis Girls’ tennis finished the regular season with a three-game win streak to clincht the No. 3 seed in the DI playoffs. The Wolves, who finished with an 8-3 record in the regular season, will play the winner of No. 6 Colchester and No. 11 Brattleboro in the quarterfinals on Thursday at 3 p.m. at home. South Burlington beat Colchester 4-3 in its only matchup of the season but did not play Brattleboro.
FILE PHOTO
Emily Borrazzo, shown here in 2019, pitched a complete game May 26. The South Burlington girls now head to the 2022 Division I playoffs.
Page 10 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
MEMORIAL DAY continued from page 1
was killed in the Second Battle of Ypres in World War I. Boera noted that back in the day, people knew it as The Great War. “I don’t ask you to memorize it like me but think about it at least once a year,” Boera said. “It’s an important poem.” Part of the poem follows: “We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields. A veteran of the U.S. Marines and a retired long-time educator in South Burlington schools, Bob Walsh, also spoke at the event. “Memorial Day really strikes me. I think of the lives lost and the things we’ve been able to do,” he said. “It’s a heart-wrenching thought and very touching — thinking about the loved ones we’ve lost.” Members of the Green Mountain chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, including Susy Pratt, Lucille Lockwood, Karen Brigham and Betty Ann Andrews hung a wreath near the park’s monuments to veterans in honor of the day. “We are proud to represent DAR and especially to honor the memory of those who have served our country,” Andrews wrote to The Other Paper after the event.
PHOTOS BY AVALON STYLES-ASHLEY
Above: From left, members of the Green Mountain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Lucille Lockwood, Betty Ann Andrews, Susy Pratt and Karen Brigham, joined the South Burlington commemoration of Memorial Day at Veteran’s Memorial Park last Friday. Opposite: Dozens of South Burlingtonians turned out to honor fallen veterans at the event.
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The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 11
JOBS
continued from page 1 that TIF, as it exists today, is inaccessible to our smallest communities,” he said, arguing that many can’t take advantage of the benefits offered from the tool because they don’t have the resources needed to shoulder all of the requirements. One of the report’s chapters that stayed the same from first to second draft is titled, “Measuring the performance of TIF districts is complicated,” he added, and the league’s foray into analysis of economic development tools like TIFs is relatively new for them. South Burlington city manager Jessie Baker, who also serves as president of the board of directors for the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, noted that when city staff saw the number, they knew immediately it was off. “It was a straight human error,” Baker said. “We knew right away that it was wrong because it was just factually impossible. But it wasn’t that we had reported anything inaccurately, it wasn’t that VLCT had published anything inaccurately, it was just a miscalculation in an Excel spreadsheet.” She and other South Burlington officials have credited the financing tool with the blossoming of city’s downtown center. TIFs allow municipalities to take out debt to build public projects, then pay off the debt using future tax revenue from development — apartments, stores, public buildings, parks — erected in a certain district. But controversy has also followed the tool, frequently in
other states where it’s been used to build things like upscale hotels, bring in national chains like Whole Foods and erect baseball stadiums that have increasingly gentrified surrounding neighborhoods. But that wouldn’t happen in Vermont, Brady argued. “Vermont has one of the most restrictive TIF programs in the country,” he said, adding that the projects must go toward public infrastructure and residents of municipalities with such districts must vote on projects using those funds. “We even though Vermont has this restriction, TIF still is seen as the big bad thing that builds billionaires’ baseball stadiums.” He sees the biggest controversy of TIFs as an assumption that growth would happen with or without the financing tool, but in his view, the revitalization of areas like downtown Winooski, St. Albans or South Burlington could not have happened so quickly and seamlessly for government staff without tax increment financing. He hopes to create project based TIFs. Baker added that even though she’s heard criticism of the tool in the Vermont Legislature, she does not hear criticism from residents. “South Burlington voters have voted multiple times — they had to vote to establish the TIF district, they had to vote on the debt that we’ve incurred, they’re going to have to vote again on Town Meeting Day next year for the last tranche of TIF debt. Each one of those bond votes have passed with
significant margins,” Baker said. “I think people, residents really appreciate how we’ve leveraged the tool to create City Center.” Putting the pros and cons of TIFs aside, state auditor Doug Hoffer argued that the league’s report was so riddled with errors that it should not be cited or used by the legislative or executive branches. “This is not a question of supporting or opposing TIFs. Rather, it is a question of how we make decisions about how to spend taxpayer dollars,” Hoffer wrote. In addition to misstating the number of jobs born out of South Burlington’s TIF district, the April draft report claimed that Burlington’s waterfront TIF district sent $2.9 million to the state’s education fund from 2014 to 2020, when the actual amount was less than $30,000; and that the same district created 227 new jobs when, in fact, only 52 new jobs were created. “Further exemplifying the unreliable nature of jobs credited to this program, the City of Burlington’s 2021 TIF report counted 150 Burlington High School teachers and staff as jobs ‘created’ by the program, when teachers just temporarily moved into the Macy’s department store,” Hoffer said. The league later corrected these errors and others in the report, conducted by Rural Innovation Strategies out of Hartland, which partnered with University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Center for Customized Research and Services.
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Beware fraud scheme targeting elderly South Burlington Police are warning residents about fraud that targets elderly residents. Here’s how the scheme seems to work, police said: A caller, masquerading as a lawyer, tells their intended victim that a loved one has been in an accident and that they need to withdraw several thousands of
dollars for bail or legal defense. The victim is instructed to tell their bank teller that the money is to pay a contractor. The suspect then arrives in person at the victim’s home to pick up the money. Anyone who gets such a call should ask for the caller’s name, tell the caller they want to speak with
their loved one directly, and end the call, police said. “If you are concerned that a loved one is in trouble, contact that person directly,” police said. Contact the South Burlington Police at 802-846-4111 if you have any information about this fraud scheme.
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Page 12 • June 2, 2022 • The Other Paper
CANDIDATES
continued from page 1 ness School and the University of Michigan Law School. From 2010 to 2021, he served on the South Burlington School Board. As the session ended a few weeks ago, Reps. Ann Pugh, John Killacky, Maida Townsend each announced they would not run for reelection to their seats. Running for Pugh’s seat in Chittenden-9 is newcomer Emilie Krasnow, a native Vermonter and resident of South Burlington for 17 years. She has experience in the Statehouse, having worked as an assistant in the Senate for seven years and then in the Vermont lieutenant governor’s office until 2019. Krasnow volunteers at the local food shelf and serves on the city’s housing trust committee, the South Burlington Rotary Club, the ASPIRE South Burlington Library Foundation volunteer committee, as vice chair on the Chittenden County Democratic Committee and as secretary for the South Burlington Democratic Committee. Brian Minier, who served on the South Burlington School Board until last March, announced he will run for the seat vacated by Killacky. Minier was elected to the school board in 2019 and described his experience there as a rewarding bootcamp in local education and politics. He has two master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin in Russian literature and area studies. After moving to Vermont with his family, he spent time as a stay-at-home father and worked as an administrative assistant for the University of Vermont’s Department of
German and Russian, where his wife also works as a professor. South Burlington resident Kate Nugent, a local justice of the peace and member of the South Burlington Board of Civil Authority, plans to run for Townsend’s seat. Nugent is also a member of South Burlington Rotary and works as the executive director of the Winooski Partnership for Prevention, which works to prevent substance abuse in the community. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Colgate University in international relations and French and a master’s from the University of South Carolina in English literature. She also teaches at the Community College of Vermont and holds a certificate in nonprofit management from Marlboro College. In the fifth and newest House seat, resident Noah Hyman is running to represent South Burlington.
The Senate After Chittenden County was forced to break up its six-seat Senate district, the county was partitioned into three districts, with the new Chittenden Southeast District including South Burlington, Bolton, Burlington’s South-End, Charlotte, Hinesburg, Shelburne, Jericho, Richmond, St. George, Williston and Underhill. The other Senate districts include Chittenden Central with three senators and Chittenden North with one senator. With only three open seats and five candidates, three of whom are incumbents,
the local delegation could see some turnover.
Newcomers Two newcomers are vying for Senate seats this year: Lewis Mudge and Steve May. May, a former selectboard member in Richmond, is making a third attempt at the state legislative branch, running for a seat in the new Chittenden Southeast District. He previously ran for a Senate seat in 2018 and 2020. He owns a private practice in Montpelier and works as a social worker. Lewis Mudge, who currently serves on the Charlotte Selectboard, did not respond to requests for comment.
Incumbents Sen. Thomas Chittenden is running for reelection to his seat in the newly formed Chittenden Southeast district. He’s served on the South Burlington city council for eight years and in the legislature for one term, where he sits on three committees, the Senate committees on transportation, education, and joint information technology oversight. Sen. Virginia “Ginny” Lyons of Williston, whose seat falls within the new Chittenden Southeast district, plans to run again. She was first elected to the Legislature in 2000 and has served on numerous committees, including but not limited to, the Health Reform Oversight Committee, as chair of the Joint Legislative Child Protection Oversight Committee, the Joint Carbon Emissions Reduction Committee, the Joint Legislative Justice Oversight Committee and as co-chair of the Task Force on Affordable, Accessible Health Care. She is also a college professor at the University of Vermont, where she earned her doctorate. Perhaps the most surprising candidate
to join the race at the last second is sitting senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale who, until Thursday, seemed to be fierce competition for the state’s U.S. House race. Last Friday, after the deadline closed to file petitions for state Legislature, Ram Hinsdale announced she was bowing out of the national race and endorsing her colleague in the legislature, Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint, a Democrat from Windham, to take over for U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, who hopes to win the seat being vacated by U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy. Before being elected to represent Chittenden County in the Senate in 2020, Ram Hinsdale served in the House of Representatives from 2008 to 2016. The Shelburne resident has bachelor’s degrees in natural resource planning and political science from the University of Vermont, as well as a master’s degree in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. When she was elected in 2020, Ram Hinsdale became the first woman of color ever to serve in the Vermont Senate. South Burlington’s other sitting senator, Michael Sirotkin, announced he will not run for reelection. Sirotkin, who was appointed to his wife’s senatorial seat in 2014 after she died from lung cancer, brought a law background to the Statehouse, having worked at Vermont Legal Aid in the 1970s and 1980s, in addition to private practice. He serves on the Senate committee for economic development and finance, chairs the Committee on Housing and General Affairs, and co-chairs the Small Business Solutions Task Force. Also running for Welch’s seat are Lt. Gov. Molly Gray, Sianay Chase Clifford of Essex, Louis Meyers of South Burlington, Ericka Bundy Redic of Burlington, Anya Tynio of Charleston and Liam Madden.
PUBLIC HEARING
SOUTH BURLINGTON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW BOARD The South Burlington Development Review Board will hold a public hearing in the South Burlington City Hall auditorium, 180 Market Street, South Burlington, Vermont, or online or by phone, on Tuesday June 21, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. to consider the following: Site plan application #SP-22-021 and conditional use application #CU-22-04 of El Gato Cantina to amend a previously approved Planned Unit Development for a 705,335 sf shopping center complex. The amendment consists of adding seasonal mobile food unit as a use and designating an area for seasonal mobile food unit operations, 155 Dorset Street.
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Board members will be participating in person. Applicants and members of the public may participate in person or remotely either by interactive online meeting or by telephone: Interactive Online Meeting (audio & video): https://us06web.zoom. us/j/81976531692 By Telephone (audio only): (929) 205 6099, Meeting ID: 819 7653 1692 A copy of the application is available for public inspection by emailing Marla Keene, Development Review Planner, mkeene@sburl.com. June 2, 2022
The Other Paper • June 2, 2022 • Page 13
BLOTTER
continued from page 4 Arrests: Dakota W. Smith, 22, of South Burlington, was arrested May 23 for excessive speed and driving under the influence (first offense). Tara E. Beach, 37, of Colchester, was arrested May 24 for driving after criminal license suspension. Albert J. Plewa, 31, of Shelburne, was arrested May 24 for violating conditions of release. Sharon S. Brailsford, 53, of South Burlington, was arrested May 25 was arrested for driving after criminal license suspension. On May 27, she was arrested again for the same thing. Ryan Casey Tomasi, 29, of Randolph, was arrested for driving after criminal license suspension. Jordan A. Orcutt, 28, of South Burlington, was arrested for driving after criminal license suspension. Taylor M. Devarney, 32, of South Burlington, was arrested for driving under the influence (first offense). Kelsey R. Clain, 27, of South Burlington, was arrested May 28 for unlawful trespass (misdemeanor), assault on a law enforcement officer/firefighter/EMS/ health care worker, for aggravated disorderly conduct, and for resisting arrest. Gerard L. Billing, 36, of Burlington, was arrested May 29 for burglary. Brian E. Roberts, 54, of South Burlington, was arrested May 24 for criminal threatening.
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SALES SUPPORT Full-time position for a customer-service expert, general office support, all-around jack-or-jill-of-all-trades for busy newspaper office. Responsibilities include ad management and traffic flow, working the phones, directing customers, some basic website data entry, and other office-related duties. Computer skills and knowledge of MS Office applications required. Familiarity with html a bonus. Flexibility and welcoming disposition a must. Send a resume and cover letter to: Stowe Reporter, POB 489, Stowe VT 05672; or leslie@stowereporter.com. No phone calls please.
Community Bankers – Chittenden County There is no better time to join our Team! Northfield Savings Bank, founded in 1867, is the largest banking institution headquartered in Vermont. We are committed to providing a welcoming work environment for all. Are you looking to start or continue a career in the finance industry? Consider joining our team as a Community Banker! Job Responsibilities & Requirements This frontline position is crucial in creating a positive, welcoming and inclusive experience for NSB customers. The successful candidate will have exceptional customer service and communication skills. The Community Banker will be responsible for receiving and processing customers’ financial transactions as well as opening and maintaining customer accounts and services. We are looking for someone who can develop and maintain relationships with our valued customers, protect bank and customer information, and uphold customer confidentiality. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED), or equivalent is required. Previous cash handling or banking experience is preferred! Opportunity for Growth NSB has training opportunities to engage employees and assist with professional development within our company. The average years of service for an NSB employee is 9! If you’re looking for a career in an environment that promotes growth, join our team! What NSB Can Offer You Competitive compensation based on experience. Well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing opportunity. Excellent 401(k) matching retirement program. Commitment to professional development. Opportunities to volunteer and support our communities. Work-Life balance! We understand the importance of having evenings and weekends with our friends, families, and the communities we serve! Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com or Northfield Savings Bank | Human Resources PO Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641 Equal Opportunity Employer Member FDIC
Job Announcement Water and Wastewater Operator
The Town of Hinesburg, Vermont seeks qualified applicants for the position of Water and Wastewater Operator. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled. Materials should be submitted electronically to todit@ hinesburg.org. The position requires a State of Vermont Class III Public Water System Operator Certificate and a State of Vermont Grade 2 DM Pollution Abatement Facility Operator Certificate. The Town offers a comprehensive benefits package and the hourly rate of pay is dependent upon qualifications and experience. The Town of Hinesburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer and women and minorities are encouraged to apply. A full job description can be found under about/employment at Hinesburg.org.
Why not have a job you love ? Join our dedicated team and together we’ll build a community where everyone participates and belongs. Positions include a $500 sign on bonus, a strong benefits package and the opportunity to work at one of the “Best Places to Work in Vermont” System Administrator: Provide I.T. support, oversee the electronic health records system and ensure all systems are up to date and working smoothly. Experience and/or certifications in a variety of information technology systems required. Direct Support Professional: Provide 1:1 supports to help individuals reach their goals. Full and part time positions available starting at $18/hr. Service Coordinator: Continue your career in human services in a compassionate & fun environment by providing case management and help individuals create and realize goals. Compensation package is $45k annually plus mileage and on call stipend. Shared Living Provider: Open your home to someone with an intellectual disability or autism and open a whole world to them, and to you. There are a variety of opportunities available that could be the perfect match for you and your household. Residential Direct Support Professional: Work just two days, receive full benefits and have five days off each week! Provide supports to an individual in their home and in the community in 24h shifts including asleep overnights in a private, furnished bedroom. Starting wage is $18/hr. Employment Specialist: Be a part Vermont’s leading supported employment program and help individuals discover their career path. The successful candidate will demonstrate reliability, strong communication skills, and the ability to solve problems effectively and professionally. Starting wage $19.50/hr. Make a career making a difference and join our team today! EOE https://ccs-vt.org/current-openings/
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CROSSWORD
ARIES
LEO
March 21 - April 20 Owning real estate has been a wise investment lately, Aries. Your home may have increased in value. Now could be an opportunity to sell and reap the profits.
TAURUS April 21 - May 21 You want to advance your relationship, Taurus,. The best way to do that is to have some serious conversations with your romantic partner. Discuss everything.
GEMINI
July 23 - Aug. 23 Leo, you may be thinking about starting a new longterm project. Put your vision on paper first so you can map out your plans and see if it is feasible with your current budget.
VIRGO Aug. 24 - Sept. 22 Virgo, you will be surrounded by plenty of people interested in social engagement in the days ahead. That is fine news for you, as you enjoy being out on the town.
LIBRA
May 22 - June 21 Rework your budget, Gemini. You likely have some home renovations that you want to tackle over the next few weeks, and now is as good a time as any to get started.
CANCER
Sept. 23 - Oct. 23 Efforts at work have not gone unnoticed, Libra. What you have worked toward has impressed those who are in position to move you further along in the company.
SCORPIO
June 22 - July 22 Your mystique has others interested in emulating your style, Cancer. They can try, but they won’t be able to completely replicate your special nature.
Oct. 24 - Nov. 22 Scorpio, they may not be on the top of your mind, but legal matters must be worked out soon. This is a good week to revisit your long-term plans if it’s been awhile.
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 Projects worked on this week will have a significant impact on your future, Sagittarius. You have a magic touch of sorts, so put it to good use in the days to come.
CAPRICORN Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 Capricorn, relationships in your life are strengthened over the course of this week. It is because you communicate effectively and with honesty and affection.
AQUARIUS Jan. 21 - Feb. 18 You are interested in health and nutrition, including certain nutrients, exercise programs or other forms of alternative therapy. Study up on the subject.
PISCES Feb. 19 - March 20 Pisces, artistic pursuits are piquing your interest, so focus your efforts on practical creative pursuits, like cooking or interior design.
CLUES ACROSS 1. Orator’s podium 5. UK-Netherlands gas pipeline 8. Partner to “oohs” 12. African antelope 14. Indigenous Thai person 15. Monetary unit of Angola 16. Becomes less intense 18. Insurance mascot 19. Tech hub __ Alto 20. Actress Tomei 21. Airborne (abbr.) 22. Type of smart watch 23. Natives 26. Incompetent person 30. Rare Hawaiian geese 31. Unspoken relationships 32. Passports and licenses are two 33. Claw 34. Status quo 39. Mimic 42. Fur-lined cloak 44. Ancient foreigner 46. In an angry way 47. Ill-intentioned
49. Monetary unit of Serbia 50. S. American plant 51. One or the other 56. An alias for Thor 57. Gratuity 58. In a painful way 59. French commune 60. Promotional materials 61. Greek city 62. Assistant 63. Confederate general 64. Former NJ governor CLUES DOWN 1. Used by gymnasts 2. “Luther” actor Idris 3. Broad volcanic crater 4. Not for 5. Blur 6. Tots 7. Acted leisurely 8. About the Alps 9. Gets out of bed 10. Town in “The Iliad” 11. Welsh given name 13. Remove salt 17. Calvary sword 24. Mental disorder concerning body odor (abbr.)
ANSWERS
25. Keeps a house cozy 26. Ballplayer’s accessory 27. Southwestern Russian city 28. Pro sports league 29. Congress investigative body (abbr.) 35. Stop standing 36. Utilize 37. Sign language 38. Famed ESPN broadcaster Bob 40. Being of central importance 41. Ruin environment 42. Dessert dish 43. Sea eagles 44. Fertilized 45. Jerry’s friend Benes 47. Indian river 48. Pass into a specified state or condition 49. Nocturnal rodent 52. A way to travel 53. Iron-containing compound 54. Ancient Greek City 55. NFL signal caller Matt
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