The Other Paper - 3-23-23

DiGenova arrest

the South

Burlington Airport to get $34 million for renovations

2023 poised for high passenger volumes

Burlington International Airport, with more than $30 million in federal funds now available, is queuing up major renovations to its terminal, as the airport continues to see increasing passenger volumes post-COVID.

The $34 million in congressionally directed spending was secured by former Sen. Patrick Leahy, the chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, as part of his final vote in the senate in December. With part of those funds,

See BTV on page 16

New principal puts the emphasis on ‘pal’

McDonald moves from high school to Marcotte

board meeting following a threemonth search.

Lissa McDonald, South Burlington High School’s former assistant principal of 17 years, has accepted the permanent principal position at Rick Marcotte Central School’s after a yearlong stint as interim principal.

The school board finalized her appointment at its March 8 school

McDonald moved to Vermont from Maine in 1990 when her husband was hired to teach physical education and coach football at South Burlington High School, where she would later become the assistant principal in 2006.

See MCDONALD on page 12

COURTESY PHOTO

The South Burlington Police Department welcomes and swears in two new officers, Emily Patterson and Justin Maki, last Friday. Both officers began their training on March 13.

THE MARNA AND STEPHEN WISE TULIN

LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER

COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER

Peregrine nesting season closes cliffs

Two prominent cliff sites on the Green Mountain National Forest’s Rochester and Middlebury ranger districts are once again temporarily closed to protect critical nesting habitat for peregrine falcons.

Beginning on Wednesday, March 15, the Rattlesnake Cliff Area in Salisbury and the Mount Horrid/Great Cliff Area in Rochester are closed until Tuesday, Aug. 1. While it seems like the depth of winter, falcons are already migrating back to Vermont to their nesting sites, and the closure of these areas as well as their cliff access trails prevents disturbance to the falcons while they nest and raise their young.

Peregrine falcon populations suffered declines due to the use of DDT in the 1940s but have rebounded since their reintroduction in the 1980s. Even though peregrines are now considered a recovered species in Vermont, it is critical to minimize

human disturbance so that the species’ recovery continues.

Across Vermont, 2022 was a successful year for peregrines — 29 nesting pairs produced 63 young that fledged from their cliff nests. Although the number of nesting pairs was lower in 2022 than in some recent years, the number of young produced per nest was above the 10-year average.

Trail and habitat monitoring in 2022 determined that there is still human disturbance near nesting sites during the closure periods. This disruption can cause the falcons to abandon their nests or interrupt the care of their young. Hikers should obey the closure signs posted on the trails leading to the cliff overlooks. Disturbance of peregrine falcons and/or these nesting grounds is a violation of federal law and carries a fine of up to $5,000 and six months in prison.

Report any harassment of nesting peregrine falcons to 1-800-75ALERT.

Local students ask lawmakers to address climate change

Students from Youth Lobby, Sierra Club and Sunrise Chit-

tenden attended Vermont Youth Lobby Day at the Statehouse to demand climate action and a brighter future for Vermont.

“While we all will experience the same effects of climate change, we will not experience them equally. BIPOC and low-income communities already have limited access to quality education, jobs, housing, healthy food and transportation,” Earl Aguila, student organizer of Sunrise Chittenden and South Burlington student, said. “A changing climate would exacerbate these crises through centuries of systemic racism through laws, policies, and practices that have placed these Vermonters in an especially vulnerable position.”

During the day, youth activists met with their representatives, Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman and the Climate Solutions Caucus to express their concerns and advo-

cate for solutions, and to call for the passage of S.5, the Affordable Heat Act.

“Show me you will listen to the voices of future generations,” Jenna Hischman, a student activist with Youth Lobby and Essex High School junior, said. “Show me you will listen to the fight I am forced to fight on our planet’s behalf. Pass the Affordable Heat Act and show me you care about our futures.”

Vermont Youth Lobby is a non-partisan coalition of young Vermonters who are dedicated to promoting policies that protect the environment and create a sustainable future for all.

Sunrise Chittenden is a local chapter of the Sunrise Movement, a national youth-led organization that advocates for climate justice. They work to engage young people in the political process and push for solutions to the climate crisis.

Correction

In last week’s story on inductees into the Vermont Sports Hall of Fame, we incorrectly identified John Koerner as the gymnast depicted in the photographs. In fact, the photos were of legendary Vermont gymnast Thomas Dunkley.

Students from around Vermont, including South Burlington, are urging lawmakers to pass the Affordable Heat Act.

Jimmy Fund honors SB’s Barb Sirvis

South Burlington resident Barb Sirvis was recognized as Alumni Walker of the Year for her commitment and fundraising efforts in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk, which supports adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Sirvis was among a select group of awardees recognized for their fundraising and commitment in the 34th Jimmy Fund Walk in October.

More than 7,600 walkers and 780 volunteers comprised of patients, friends, family and Dana-Farber staff and supporters came together for the event. Among them was Sirvis, who has participated in the walk for the past 12 years.

Sirvis has raised more than $132,000 for Dana-Farber.

She drives her RV to Boston each year on walk weekend to walk the full marathon route. She handwrites the names of her donors and their loved ones that have been

touched by cancer on her walk shirt every year. The names include family and friends, and even some strangers she’s met while traveling who are inspired by her story.

This past year, Sirvis handwrote over 950 names on her shirt, and she proudly carried each of those names on her marathon trek.

She can always be found walking alongside her longtime friend and inspiration, Betty McEnaney.

“Barb has demonstrated her commitment to conquering cancer and exemplifies the spirit of this event. People like Barb make this one of the most meaningful ways to honor the heroes we are walking for and inspire other walkers to join the cause,” Zack Blackburn, director of the Jimmy Fund Walk, said.

The 2023 walk will be held during the Jimmy Fund’s 75th anniversary year and aims to raise $9 million. For more information, go to jimmyfundwalk.org or call (866) 531-9255.

Barb Sirvis of South Burlington at the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk in October.

South

Burlington Police Blotter Police Briefs

Agency / public assists: 17

Suspicious event: 13

Accident: property damage: 10

Alarm: 9

Trespass: 9

Larceny from motor vehicle: 8

Motor vehicle complaint: 8

Welfare check: 7

Threats: 6

Disturbance: 6

Intoxication: 4

Found/lost property: 4

Domestic: 4

Retail theft: 3

Total incidents: 170

Arrests

Dec. 6 at 2:05 p.m., Jessica S. Atwood, 43, of South Burlington, was arrested for embezzlement on Williston Road.

Feb. 24 at 9:13 p.m., a 14-year-old was arrested for misrepresenting their age or procuring or possessing alcoholic beverages.

March 10 at 6:47 a.m., Joshua A. Tripp, 34, of Burlington, was arrested for identity theft and credit card/ATM fraud on Shelburne Road.

March 11 at 2:57 p.m., Matthew A. Picard, 39, of Shelburne, was arrested for second degree aggravated domestic assault on Farrell Street.

March 13 at 11:47 a.m., Teiontay J. Braxton, 43, of South Burlington, was arrested on an in-state

warrant, interfering with access to emergency services and first degree aggravated domestic assault on Williston Road.

March 16 at 2:07a.m., Samantha

A. Durham, 28, of Barre, was arrested on an in-state warrant on Williston Road.

March 16 at 4:19 p.m., Ashley M. Greene, 24, of Burlington, was arrested for aggravated assault on Shelburne Road.

March 16 at 11:11 p.m., Kevin R. Corbin, 32, of South Burlington, was arrested for interfering with access to emergency services, first degree unlawful restraint and first degree aggravated domestic assault on Shelburne Road.

March 17 at 6:26 p.m., Theodore Bland, 27, of Burlington, was arrested on an in-state arrest warrant and for aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and possession of a dangerous weapon during the commission of a felony on Shelburne Road.

March 17 at 6:26 p.m., Teesha M. Nooth, 29, of Derby, was arrested on an in-state warrant on Shelburne Road.

March 18 at 7 p.m., Jason P. Robinson, 44, was for violating conditions of release on Farrell Street. He was arrested March 19 at 10:47 a.m. for violating conditions of release on Farrell Street.

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Man charged in Shelburne Road strangling incident

On March 16 at 11:12 p.m., South Burlington police say Kevin Corbin, 36, of South Burlington, held a woman against her will in their Shelburne Road apartment.

Corbin was later charged with aggravated domestic assault, unlawful restraint and interference with emergency services.

Police received a report of a domestic assault and were told Corbin was suicidal and armed. He reportedly strangled his victim. She was able to flee but was forced to leave her minor child asleep in the apartment, police said.

Several apartments in the building were evacuated as the Burlington Police Department Emergency Response Unit safely removed the

child from the apartment.

During the investigation South Burlington police took several firearms from Corbin under a family court relief from abuse order.

Police say if you are experiencing domestic violence to call the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence hotline at 800-228-7395.

Burlington man held after

threatening with shotgun

Theodore Bland, 27, of Burlington was arrested for aggravated assault, possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony, and reckless endangerment after an incident at the Simons convenience store on Shelburne Road March 17 around 6:26 p.m.

Eyewitnesses told police a man brandishing a shotgun was attempting to abduct two women. By the time officers arrived, everyone involved had fled the area in two vehicles.

Police say the two women were with a Chittenden County man who was propositioning them for sex. When the trio went to Simons to buy liquor, one of the women called Bland for help.

Bland arrived and pointed at pump-style shotgun at the man while ordering the women out of the car. Bland and the two women fled in his car; the other man also left the area. None of the involved parties called police.

Investigators later located all those involved in the incident and arrested Bland, who was held on $10,000 bail pending arraignment.

COURTESY PHOTO

A shotgun brandished by Burlington resident Theodore Bland was seized by police after an incident at a convenience store on March 17.

South Burlington must honor Roosevelt’s ecological vision

Guest Perspective

John Bossange

Known first as a “traitor to his class” and a “trust buster,” President Teddy Roosevelt also set the stage for conserving immense areas of America’s wilderness and had the foresight to designate those lands as national parks for the public to enjoy forever.

“There can be no greater issue than that of conservation in the country,” he said in response to industrialists who continued to seek ways to exploit the nation’s natural resources for economic gain.

The president was both right and visionary when he said, “to waste, to destroy our natural resources, to skin and exhaust the land instead of using it so as to increase its usefulness, will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them.”

How prophetic and appropriate for the world today and to South Burlington as we look ahead following the city’s recent council elections.

It seems that we are in a continual struggle between those who look into the future and are prepared to make some sacrifices to be sure there is a future, and those who are focused on the present and avoid making commitments or sacrifices to protect the future. As it was during Roosevelt’s time, today there are tremendous profits to be made off the land, especially with more housing, some industry and commercial development.

In South Burlington there are many reasons for city councilors to focus on the immediate needs of the city, but none to remain blind to the future.

The biggest difference between 1906 and 2023 is that today we are now living in a “code red” environment because we did precisely what Roosevelt told us not to do — skinning and exhausting the land.

I’m certain there are not many residents in South Burlington who still defy science and think the climate crisis is a hoax. However, I’m not at all confident that enough residents believe what Roosevelt meant when he wrote, this “will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them.”

Code red means we must make sacrifices to our lifestyle now if we want our children to inhabit a livable planet by the year 2040. This does not mean continual rebalancing the need to build more housing, promote economic growth and try to conserve remaining natural lands over a period of time.

Instead, code red does mean instituting zoning and regulations to ensure a permanent balance and direction right

now, not over an extended period. We need guardrails to be established and remain firm until we gain control of our warming city and fragile planet. For us, that means well designed and attractively built mixed-use and affordable housing with pocket parks, walkways and bike paths, tree canopies and green space all planned within the city core so we can protect our remaining natural lands forever.

South Burlington is a great place to live and work. However, as Roosevelt reminded the nation more than 100 years ago, “we have become great because of the lavish use of our resources. But the time has come to inquire seriously what will happen when our forests are gone, when the coal, the iron, the oil and the gas are exhausted, when the soils have still further impoverished and washed into the streams, polluting the rivers and denuding the fields and obstructing navigation.”

In South Burlington, we cannot impoverish our land, pollute our rivers and denude our remaining fields and forests any longer with unregulated, sprawling development. It’s time for our two newly elected councilors to join with our three incumbent city councilors and collectively honor the words of our 26th president by leading with courage to be sure that does not occur.

I’m confident they will do that.

It’s not 1906, nor is it 1996. In just a short period of time we have entered a crisis of apocalyptic proportions. When you are having a conversation with anyone under the age of 30, the climate crisis is the elephant in the room.

As a retired school administrator, I would have a very difficult time giving the type of commencement address I made to young adolescents when I first became a Vermont principal in 1986. I talked about hope, joy, cooperation, friends, family and community and how important education was to their future and well-being. I could say that now, but the elephant in the room would be lurking.

Young people know the world is not their oyster anymore.

We have a moral responsibility to take seriously what Roosevelt told us long before we entered the code red world of 2023. We must make the immediate sacrifices for the next generation right here in South Burlington so they can feel some of the same hope and joy we experienced a generation ago.

Their future depends upon what we all do now. Let’s do our part.

John Bossange is a retired middle school principal who now volunteers on several nonprofit boards in the Champlain Valley.

Is the new Affordable Heat Act really about saving the planet?

Guest Perspective

John LaBarge

Vermont Democrats and Progressives are obsessed with the implementation of the Global Warming Solutions Act they passed four years ago.

Since Gov. Phil Scott’s veto of the Clean Heat Standard Bill during the last legislative session, the majority’s obsession in passing the act has increased. Back in Montpelier this year and in veto-proof control, the Democrats and Progressives have decided to give the failed bill a new name and find a way to put what appears to be a tax and mandates on the backs of fuel suppliers.

This year, legislators changed the name of the vetoed Clean Heat Standard to the Affordable Heat Act to make it more palatable, hoping Vermonters will accept it because it impacts the fuel suppliers rather than the consumers — wink, wink.

The bill would force fossil fuel dealers to purchase clean heat credits, the cost of which will be passed on to their customers, thereby raising the cost to heat our homes. Those other companies selling non-carbon-fuel-based clean energy heating products will receive the money from the purchased clean heat credits.

This means those businesses much favored by the Democrats and Progressives — such as businesses that install electric heat pumps, winterize homes, sell solar panels, invest in wind generation, electric

vehicles — will be on the receiving end of money from the purchase of the clean heat credits.

This all sounds confusing to most people, and it’s meant to. The bottom line is this is merely a thinly veiled tax on fuel consumers.

Why are legislators so obsessed with forcing people off carbon-based fuels to electricity or wood? The answer, they say, is obvious. We must reduce our carbon footprint to save our planet.

This is nice but no matter how much they tax Vermonters and mandate changes, Vermont will have no impact on the total global carbon load.

Here are some facts. Vermont ranks 51st in the nation in carbon emissions, producing little more than five tons of carbon per year. A recent study by the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature stated India produces 2.46 billion metric tons of carbon a year or 6.8 percent of the total global emissions. According to the Institute for Energy, China’s carbon emissions in 2021 were expected to increase by 4 percent to 11.1 billion metric tons and that is expected to increase to 36.4 billion tons as China continues investing in coal-fired power plants.

Sen. Chris Bray, in an interview, stated reducing Vermont emissions is straightforward physics. The top three emissions generators are transportation at 40 percent, heating at around 34 percent, and agriculture at about 16 percent.

Why can’t Sen. Bray understand the

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straightforward physics that just two countries alone, with emissions totaling more than 13 billion tons per year now and up to 37 billion tons per year in just a couple of years, will instantly erase whatever reduction Vermont achieves? Still, he will vote to fiscally squeeze more from Vermonters who own gasoline-powered cars and trucks, or who heat their homes, cook or plow fields for hay or and grow food with carbon-based fuels?

There is no way Vermont on our own will save our planet or reduce the global carbon load, period. All the convoluted pieces of legislation will accomplish is inflicting an even higher level of unaffordability to live here in Vermont.

Vermonters by heart are environmentalists and readily admit the climate is changing and thousands are currently trying to do the right thing at a pace they can afford. We honestly get the problem and are moving in the right direction and don’t need politicians to socially manipulate us through taxation, mandates and product banning.

We don’t need to be forced to move to urban settings or change how we get to work, how we heat our homes, what appliances we use or even what kind of lawn mowers, chainsaws and snowblowers we must purchase because they will ban the use of small gas engine tools along with a ban on gas and diesel automobiles.

So why this constant and relentless push to pass the Affordable Heat Act and more

City’s voter turnout must improve

To the Editor:

No, this will never do. I’m addressing all South Burlington’s registered voters, of whom only 20 percent took the time and trouble to exercise their vote on or before South Burlington’s town meeting day. Voters have decided on a $55 million budget as well as a $62.5 million school budget and a $15 million bond vote, all of which were passed by those thoughtful 20 percent without batting an eye.

Having voted in every federal, state and local election since Truman vs. Dewey — and, at 97, this may have been my last — I’m appalled not by the fact that all the budgets passed so easily but by that early warning participation rate. Do we need to follow the example of several other countries that require 100 percent participation of the electorate under the threat of financial, or other meaningful, penalties? I sure hope not.

If South Burlington’s trend continues, what I’m truly concerned about is the 2024 election when such apathy could enable the wearer of that bloody MAGA cap to win the White House again by default of the evermore-silent majority — tearing down the Capitol dome this time if he once again fails his treasonous attempted coup. Let’s not let that happen, folks.

Let’s instead consider following the examples of Shelburne and Brattleboro with their 2020 voter participation tallies of 73 percent and 68 percent, respectively. It’s easy, it’s painless, it’s a satisfying afterglow — whether you’ve voted for a Teddy

types of extreme legislation? It’s really not about saving our planet because it’s obvious Vermont will have no impact on reducing global carbon loading even if we achieve zero emissions.

Here’s what I think this is all really about. There are over 25 special interest groups coordinating in Vermont, working to pass all kinds of legislation banning, mandating or heavily taxing carbon-based fuels just to achieve their political agendas.

Vermont is politically an easy target and quite easily manipulated by the onslaught of special interest groups and money. These groups and lobbyists practically live in the Statehouse during a legislative session. Off season, they recruit and train other activists in Vermont to run for local and state political positions. Once they have found their candidate, they heavily fund and support getting them elected to help fulfill their agendas.

Passing their legislation assures more power for these groups by having more people contribute to their lobbying organizations. The reason to immediately pass expensive, radical environmental bills and put the financial squeeze on low- and middle-income working Vermonters comes down to this: follow the money, follow the money, follow the money.

John LaBarge lives in Grand Isle. He is a former representative of Grand Isle County in the Vermont House.

Roosevelt Republican, a Democrat or a Progressive.

Dick Boera South Burlington

Support Legislature’s HOME bill

To the Editor:

I support the Senate bill S.100, the housing opportunities made for everyone (HOME) bill. The purpose of this bill is to “increase the supply of affordable housing in this state, promote homeownership and broaden housing opportunities for Vermonters.” It is well past time to eliminate exclusionary zoning and discrimination against duplex and multi-unit housing in all communities in Vermont.

One of the key provisions of the bill is to allow duplexes where single family homes are allowed, and fourplexes in areas where single family homes are allowed and there is also water and sewer service. Then, if single family housing is allowed in a zone, then multifamily housing is allowed. This is simple, reasonable and just. It is a long overdue correction that is needed statewide.

There are good reasons to conserve natural lands. There are benefits to smart growth in community centers — S.100 supports that approach. Climate change is not relevant to zoning changes that permit multifamily housing, since climate change is a global problem that is mostly driven by burning

Letters

Can you imagine? By 2030, just seven years from now, three quarters of all vehicles in South Burlington will be either all-electric or a plug-in hybrid? Or that total vehicle miles traveled will actually be reduced by 15 to 20 percent? Or that we have a planning and zoning philosophy that supports high-density development in support of leaving cars behind?

These goals of the South Burlington Climate Action Plan are looming questions as we think about how the world will respond to climate change.

We know that in Vermont, the transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, representing around 40 percent of the total. In South Burlington, that number is more like 65 percent.

Compared to other states’ transportation emissions, per capita, we’re about average, so there goes that Vermont-is-greener myth. To be on track with the climate protection goals established by the world in the Paris Agreement in 2015, and by both the governments of the United States and Vermont, we need to dramatically reduce transportation emissions.

This is no simple task, but South Burlington is on the road to working this out. The Climate Action Plan, adopted last year by the city council, lays out a few high priority actions, plus dozens of supporting actions. It’s worth a look. The two big ideas: the switch to electric vehicles and increasing opportunities to get out of those vehicles entirely or at least partially. (View the plan at

bit.ly/3JPRkJB.)

The switch to electric vehicles is already underway and picking up speed quickly. As vehicle options become more diverse and effective, more of us can see how an electric vehicle fits into our own transportation plan, with great support from state, federal and electric utility incentives.

An important challenge for South Burlington is to make sure that charging infrastructure is out there, in ways that support efficient and equitable access for all residents and workers. Requiring charging units, and the power supply necessary, is relatively easy for new construction. Existing homes are another challenge, as are opportunities for renters and many multi-family dwellings.

Special attention is due to those of us who have fewer financial resources and may end up using more public charging infrastructure. In addition to having enough stations in the right places, there is also the question of cost: Will there be higher costs at pay-as-you-go public charging stations, which may eliminate much of the savings that chargeat-home electric vehicle owners experience?

Imagine a world where most of our getting around is not about the automobile. There are world cities right now where bicycles outnumber cars, and the streets are designed to make that work. The challenge for us is that it can take significant investments before more of us accept the safety and efficiency of shifting to biking, walking or mass transit.

The shift is happening gradually, as we see more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly street design. What other changes would really work for people? More frequent bus schedules? More local public transit routes? Park and ride lots near key bus stops? These are easy questions to ask, but tough to get bankable answers. To get things rolling, the city has established an implementation task force to prioritize and better define what this looks like and how to get there. According to project coordinator Erica Quallen, the city aims to look closely at which action items are truly feasible, will engage public support and contribute substantially to our climate goal. Who are the main stakeholders in the proposed actions? What’s the cost? Which actions present the greatest bang for the buck in terms of greenhouse gas reductions? What are the crucial equity concerns, making sure that the widest possible spectrum of South Burlington’s population will benefit from chosen climate actions?

One of the first efforts toward this implementation plan is to check in with the people of South Burlington. First, the city is hoping as many people as possible will respond to a transportation implementation questionnaire at tinyurl.com/3mcd43hn.

The questions are intended to get a sense of how residents are already tuned in to the issues and opportunities, or what would make

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Church holds rummage sale for mission outreach

Williston Federated Church, 44 North Williston Road, is holding a rummage on Friday, March 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday, April 1, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for gently worn clothing for all ages. On Saturday fill a 30-gallon trash bag for $5. Proceeds from the clothing sale are used in support of mission outreach. For more information contact Carol Bouchard at 802-862-7400. More information at steeple.org.

All Souls hosts interfaith comedy show

The Argosy Foundation and Erik Angel Entertainment present a live — and lively — interfaith comedy show with Usama Siddiquee, Ashley Austin Morris, Erik Angel and Tehran Von Ghasri on Wednesday, April 12, at 7 p.m. at All Souls Interfaith Gathering, Bostwick Farm Road, Shelburne.

A question-and-answer session with the comedians will follow to further encourage interfaith dialogue. Tickets are $10 and all proceeds will be donated by Argosy to Vermont-area nonprofits. For tickets, go to bit.ly/3JQNH6k.

Shelburne Age Well hosts Grab and Go meal

Age Well and St. Catherine’s of Siena Parish in Shelburne are teaming up to provide a meal to go for anyone age 60 and older on Tuesday, April 11.

The meal will be available for pick up in the parking lot at 72

Community Notes

Church St. from 11 a.m. until noon and are available for anyone 60 or older.

The menu is baked ham with raison sauce, sweet potatoes, Capri blend vegetables, wheat roll with butter, Congo bar and milk.

To order a meal contact Kathleen at agewellstcath@gmail.com or 802-507-1107. Deadline to order is Wednesday, April 5. If this is a first-time order, provide your name, address, phone number and date of birth.

If you haven’t yet filled out a congregate meal registration form, bring a completed registration form with you or send one to: Age Well; 875 Roosevelt Highway, Ste. 210, Colchester VT 05446. Forms will be available at meal pick up.

More information at agewellvt. org.

Doc explains impacts of Medicare plans

On Thursday, March 30, Dr. Marvin Malek, past president of Vermont Physicians for a National Health Program, will give a presentation on the privatization of Medicare.

The program, sponsored by the League of Vermont Women Voters, runs from 1-3 p.m., at the Barre Area Senior Center, 131 South Main St. Malek will discuss Medicare Advantage, direct contracting and the new ACO/REACH program. The primary focus will be on the impacts of these privatization initiatives on the care beneficiaries receive, on the costs Medicare beneficiaries will face and the effects of these changes on the

financial stability of the Medicare program.

Malek has spent most of his career in community medicine, providing care to underserved populations, including Latino, Black and Navajo communities. He currently works on the hospital care team at Springfield Hospital in Vermont.

The event is cosponsored by Vermont Physicians for a National Health Program, Vermont Health Care for All, Vermont State Employees’ Association and Vermont Workers’ Center.

Free tax help clinics at SB senior center

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation assistance with a special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low-to-moderate income.

The help is open to both AARP members and non-members.

Trained and IRS-certified tax-aide volunteers will provide

Dr. Marvin Malek

COURTESY PHOTO

The Williston Federated Church will hold a rummage sale on Friday, March 31 — shoppers may fill a 30-gallon bag with clothes for $5.

COMMUNITY NOTES

continued from page 8

secure and confidential federal and Vermont tax preparation at the South Burlington Senior Center, City Hall, 180 Market St., every Tuesday and Friday until April 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To take advantage of this service, call Rebecca Isham at 802-923-5545 to schedule an appointment. Plan on arriving 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork. Bring a photo ID for taxpayer and spouse; Social Security or ITIN numbers for all persons on the tax return; last year’s tax return; all forms W2, 1099 R, SSA1099, other 1099 forms, self-employment records; brokerage and bank statements; mortgage interest, medical expenses, charitable donations; educational expenses; form 1098 T; current property tax bill or a copy; voided check for direct deposit of refund or debit of balance due and any correspondence from the IRS.

Richmond Church holds Red Cross blood drive

The Richmond Congregational Church, 20 Church St., hosts an American Red Cross blood drive on Wednesday, April 5, noon to 6 p.m.

Appointments are required. Call 800-733-2767 or go online to redcrossblood.org for more information or to make an appointment. Email dthomas@gmavt. net for assistance. There are plenty of slots between the hours of 1:30 and 4:30 p.m.

A sampler by Amanda Jewell, 1816, St. Albans.

Shelburne Museums holds Vermont Sampler Initiative

Members of the Vermont Sampler Initiative are working with local museums, historical societies, historic homes, private collectors and descendants to locate, photograph and document American samplers from the 17th to 19th centuries for an online searchable database of American schoolgirl needlework.

Bring antique samplers to sampler identification and documentation days at the Shelburne Museum on Friday and Saturday, April 21 to 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A second sampler identification day will be held at the Vermont Historical Society in Barre on Friday and Saturday, May 12 to 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information email samplersvt@gmail.com.

Grammy winners headline

All Souls concert

Grammy-winning artists Jason Vieaux on guitar and saxophonist Timothy McAllister headline a Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival concert at All Souls Interfaith Gathering, 291 Bostwick Farm Road in Shelburne on Tuesday, April 11, at 7 p.m. Tickets are limited. More at lccmf.org.

NAMI holds mental illness, recovery workshop

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Vermont is offering an in-person mental illness and recovery workshop for family members, peers and community members who want to learn more about mental health and recovery at the Essex Police Department, 145 Maple St., on Saturday, March 25 from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The workshop will include information about major mental health conditions, an overview of effective treatments, accessing services throughout Vermont, coping strategies, crisis prevention and recovery. More information available at namivt.org.

Church holds lasagna dinner fundraiser

Faith United Methodist Church is hosting a drive-thru lasagna dinner fundraiser to support Machia Wilderness Camp, a non-profit summer camp that inspires youth to be responsible stewards of the earth through hands-on, nature-focused skill building and leadership development.

The meal includes homemade lasagna (meat or vegetable), bread sticks, tossed salad and a generous slice of maple fudge and chocolate fudge. Pick-up in the church parking lot, 899 Dorset St., South Burlington, from 5-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 1. Enter from the upper or south entrance.

The minimum suggested donation is $15 per meal.

Dinner reservations are required at bit. ly/3yJ3PQV or email events@faithsbvt. org with the number and type of meals and preferred pickup time. Orders can be picked up at 5 p.m., 5:15 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Questions? Call 802-863-6764.

In addition, bring non-perishable food items for Feeding Chittenden and South Burlington Food Shelf collections. All proceeds will go directly to the camp.

We

COURTESY PHOTOS

Musicians Jason Vieaux and Timothy McAllister

The following University of Vermont students from South Burlington were named to the dean’s list for the fall 2022 semester: Katelyn Marcoux; Andrew Vogt; Hamza Azhar Karim; Kelly Eddy; Ryan Anderson; Nicole Sobczak; Gwenyth Willard; Tsering Lhakhang; Matthew Rogers; Benjamin Rogers; Hannah Larose; Molly Gaboriault; Sophie Bock; Andrew Little; Jennifer Ladd; Jordan Rochon; Philip Fretwell; Greta Powers; Jackson Jewell; Olivia Burt; Annika Imobersteg; Michaela Forgione; Jasmine Bombard; Aria Austin; Nikolai Tang; and Olivia Matthews.

The following South Burlington residents were named to The University of Scranton fall dean’s list: Noah H. Mumma and Benjamin A. Mumma.

Shayna Larrow of South Burlington made the James Madison University dean’s list for the fall 2022 semester.

The following students from South Burlington were named to the Castleton University dean’s list for the fall semester: Hannah Kaiser; Ian March; and Ayoob Musanovic.

Caroline Desautels of South Burlington has been named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Nazareth College.

Ava Hamme of South Burlington earned dean’s list honors for the School of Business at the University of Connecticut for the fall semester.

South Burlington students Chip Viau, Abigail Greenip and Carson Cherry were named to the Southern New Hampshire University fall semester president’s list.

Brett Lee Bohlmann and Tyler M. Cady, both of South Burlington, were named to the dean’s list for the fall semester at Clarkson University.

Aaron Murakami of South Burlington was named to Springfield College dean’s list for the fall semester.

Joan Vera of South Burlington graduated summa cum laude from Middlebury College in May. She majored in neuroscience with a minor in global health.

The following University of Vermont students from South Burlington graduated with bachelor’s degrees during commencement ceremonies in May: Matthew Julius,

Student Milestones

global studies; Marley Ludlow, history; David Mercier, psychological science; Henry Stone, classical civilization; Aidan Seipke, magna cum laude, Japanese; Claire MacQueen, environmental studies; Honggang Xu, economics; Maria Cayia, biology; Jennifer Mull, environmental studies; Andrew Plumb, political science; Cameron Hudson, computer science and mathematics; Lydia Ambaye, neuroscience; Jacqueline Chant, neuroscience; Spencer Dooley, data science; Seth Lowell, biological science; Emma Miner, environmental studies; Riley Trowell, dietetics nutrition and food sciences; Chelsea Carcoba, animal sciences; Aisha Abdi, microbiology; Meaghan Alba, nursing; Skylar Bagdon, self-designed; Princess Chr Bailey, zoology; Kiernan Beattie, biological science; Kelly Doktorski, nursing; Jason Drebber, cum laude, environmental sciences and geology; Nora Scully, dietetics nutrition and food sciences; Shuhua Li, nutrition and food sciences; Zach Reinhardt, exercise science; Anthony March, molecular genetics; Alexander McCrae, biochemistry; Michaela Sobczak, magna cum laude, nursing; Weston Robinson, chemistry; Grace Miller, nursing; Willow Yager, nursing; Nicole Williams, early childhood special education; Molly Altadonna, dietetics nutrition and food sciences; Josephine Barber, art education; Samuel Premsagar, business administration; John Thibeault, business administration; Andrew Cunningham, cum laude, business administration; Jaden Varin, cum laude, computer science; Michelle Wehrle, cum laude, computer science; Justin Lai, computer science; Nicholas Balsamo, physical education K-12; Layla O’Connor, mathematics; Preston Grippo, mechanical engineering; Sadie Jones, music education; Sophie Doman, social work; Alicia Hill, certificate of graduate study, health care management and policy; and Brittany Clays, certificate of graduate study, resiliency based approach with families, schools and communities.

The following University of Vermont students from South Burlington graduated with Doctor of Medicine degrees, The Robert Larner M.D. College of Medicine, during commencement ceremonies in May: Sara

Brennan; Jennifer Holland; Michelle Oberding; Sarah Clark; and Alice Peng.

The following University of Vermont students from South Burlington graduated with doctoral degrees from the University of Vermont during commencement ceremonies in May: Emily Whitaker, Doctor of Philosophy in cellular molecular and biomedical sciences; Cole Davidson, Doctor of Philosophy in cellular molecular and biomedical sciences; Qing Ren, Doctor of Philosophy in natural resources; Jing Wan, Doctor of Philosophy in materials science; Faith Richard, Doctor of Physical Therapy in the Graduate College; and Jillian Varin, Doctor of Physical Therapy in the Graduate College.

The following University of Vermont students from South Burlington graduated with master’s degrees during commencement ceremonies in May: John Weinheimer, accounting; Carolyn Evemy, psychology; Jennifer Stein, teaching in curriculum and instruction; Senja Kling, business administration; Olivia Kane, educational leadership; Alex Blanchard, educational leadership; Tamara Bender, interdisciplinary; Jessica Drummond, interdisciplinary; Catherine Weiner, special education; Noah Gilbert-Fuller, public administration; Jennifer Le, public administration; Brenden Green, public health; Insu Koh, public health; Khalil Abedrabbo, pharmacology; Meghan Kearns, counseling; Christopher Weiler, counseling; Peter Larsen, mathematics; Mary Ann Barnum, pathology and Doctor of Medicine; Zhipeng Liu, statistics; Amber Lange, counseling; Erin Mcbride, complex systems and data science; Claire Whitehouse, food systems; Braelin Hanbridge, medical science; and Addisan Pound, medical science.

The following students from South Burlington earned associate degrees at the Community College of Vermont, spring 2022: Salma Badra; Anastassya Nell Dyer; Ruth E. Finn; Vipon K. Kasongo; Hannah Lynn Ladd; Iris Elizabeth Robert; Noelani June Rupp; and Christina A. Soter.

The following Vermont Tech students from South Burlington graduated with associate degrees during commencement ceremonies last spring: Yaovi Aklama, construction management; Haley Drown, veterinary technology; Joel Williams; computer information technology; Emily Bieber, dental hygiene; Yurie Centybear, nursing; Durga Dhakal, nursing; Kelsey George, nursing; Joelle Kanjinga, nursing; Joseph Rheaume, nursing;

Margaret Rodgers, nursing.

The following Vermont Tech students from South Burlington graduated with bachelor’s degrees during commencement ceremonies last spring: Nghia Le, business technology and management; and Aidan Powell, organismal biology and ecology.

Amelia Pape of South Burlington graduated summa cum laude in neuroscience from St. Lawrence University in May 22. Pape attended South Burlington High School.

Riley Joinnides of South Burlington graduated with a degree in computer science from Oregon State University in June.

The following students from South Burlington graduated Castleton University in May: David Couture, criminal justice; William Briggs, management; Collin Johnson, management; Radhika Tamang, nursing; and Cooper Weir, marketing.

Jackson Main of South Burlington graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Quinnipiac University.

Miriam Stats of South Burlington graduated in May with a Doctor of Medicine from Quinnipiac University.

Lakshmi Venkata Khandavalli of South Burlington earned a Master of Science in human-computer interaction from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta during May commencement.

Emma Liebegott of South Burlington graduated from Hamilton College in May. Liebegott, a psychology major, completed a thesis titled “Competing vs. Socializing: How Disordered Eating Symptoms in Athletes Vary Based on Context, Personal Characteristics, and Sport Type.”

Chelsea Reichard of South Burlington graduated from Fairfield University in May 2022.

Samuel Houlihan from South Burlington graduated from Ithaca College with bachelor’s degree in theater production and design.

Guillaume Meli of South Burlington earned an associate degree from Elmira College in June.

Luke LeClair of South Burlington received a bachelor’s degree from Elmira College in June.

The following South Burlington students graduated Rochester Institute of Technology last spring: Megan Harton, photographic and imaging arts; and Holly Morgan, illustration.

See STUDENT MILESTONES on page 11

STUDENT MILESTONES

continued from page 10

The following students graduated after the spring 2022 semester from Champlain College: Mary-Margaret Andrulot, creative media; Jacob Kellogg, graphic design and digital media; Nathan Ploof, filmmaking; Zane Swift, filmmaking; Adam Backus, business management; Kelsey Bean, health care administration; Hannah Beaulieu, marketing; Zlata Cavka, economic crime investigation; Colin Grier, game production management; Sophia Huang, game art and animation; Colton Hulce, computer networking and cybersecurity; Elijah Wakeling, game design; Matthew Williamson, accounting; Krissy Thompson, social work; Kathleen LeClair, business administration; Asterik Muradian, Master of Business Administration; Brittany Winfield, Master of Business Administration; Allison Chaney, Master of Health Care Administration; Kathryn Gingras, Master of Science in information security; Aidan Nightingale, Master of Science in information security; Daniel Wagner, filmmaking; and Dianna Cornett, game programming.

CLEAN & GREEN

continued from page 7

things work for them. Results of the survey will be posted on a future website.

Second, a plan is in the works for at least one major public listening session that will be announced soon. There will be two focus groups, targeting those who are often hard to reach with a public process, but who could be directly affected by whatever actions are chosen.

Epic A.J. by Grayson Dailey

Caroline Belisle graduated from the University at Albany during commencement last spring with a bachelor’s degree in public health, magna cum laude.

Tara Lowensohn of South Burlington graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, summa cum laude, from Tufts University.

Last May, Grace Hoehl of South Burlington graduated magna cum laude in chemistry at Bates College. Hoehl, the daughter of John and Martha Hoehl, is a 2018 graduate of South Burlington High School.

Tracy Fornasier of South Burlington earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University Leavitt School of Health last fall.

Gabriela White of South Burlington earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University Leavitt School of Health last fall.

Cal Heffernan of South Burlington graduated last summer from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a master’s degree in computer science.

Alex Pollack, a member of the Colgate University Class of 2022, earned Dean’s Award with Distinction last spring. Pollack is an economics and psychological science major and a graduate of South Burlington High School.

David Lestrange of South Burlington was named to the fall semester dean’s list at Ohio Wesleyan University.

Benjamin Mazza-Bergeron of South Burlington was named to the fall dean’s list at Stonehill College.

The following South Burlington residents made the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire for the fall 2022 semester: Lyssa Tan, highest honors; Sophia Marek, high honors; Aidan Devine, high honors; and Shea O’Connor, highest honors.

Mathieu Dubois of South Burlington made the fall dean’s list at Hofstra. He is an economics major.

Maddie Liebegott of South Burlington made the fall semester dean’s list at Bucknell University.

Thabitha Moruthane of South Burlington was named to the University of Hartford’s president’s honors list for the fall semester.

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. They have 2 to 3 years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile—that feels great, too.

Human Resources Benefits & Payroll Administrator

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.

Our Human Resources team is GROWING,and we are looking for a professional to joinour exceptional HR team in our Berlin Operations Center.

Job Responsibilities & Requirements

The Benefits & Payroll Administrator will be responsible for processing bi-weekly payroll, handing employee benefits information updates, maintaining employee files and reports, and will act as the primary contact for internal questions and requests related to benefits and payroll.

The successful candidate will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, be highly organized, and have a high attention to detail. This position will support the HR team in many capacities, while supporting the organization and maintaining confidentiality. A high school diploma, general education degree (GED) or equivalent is required.

Prior Human Resources, Office Management, or Accounting experience is welcomed.

Opportunity for Growth

Our team will encourage and help you develop within Human Resources, providing guidance on how to obtain appropriate HR certifications. The average years of service for an NSB employee is 9! If you’re looking to start or continue your HR career, join us!

What NSB Can Offer You

Quallen also asks that anyone with specific input, or a request to meet with an interested group, to reach out directly at equallen@ southburlingtonvt.gov.

How will South Burlington residents be getting around in 20 years? Maybe you can help steer the answer now.

Steve Crowley is a member of the South Burlington Energy

Committee who has lived in the Queen City Park neighborhood of South Burlington for about 40 years. Clean & Green is a regular feature, initiated and managed by the South Burlington Energy Committee, and will feature a variety of perspectives from members of city committees and commissions, city staff and outside organizations on environmental issues facing the city.

Competitive compensation based on experience. Well-rounded benefits package. Profit-Sharing opportunity. 401(k) matching retirement program. Professional development. Positive work environment supported by a team culture. Work/Life Balance!

Please send an NSB Application & your resume in confidence to: Careers@nsbvt.com or mail to:

Northfield Savings Bank Human Resources

PO Box 7180, Barre, VT 05641

Former trooper charged for alleged theft of $40K of items

ETHAN WEINSTEIN VTDIGGER

A former state trooper under investigation for stealing items from police storage now faces more than a dozen criminal charges — including felony theft and lying to police — after the initial investigation revealed more instances of stealing, according to Vermont State Police.

Giancarlo DiGenova, 44, of Essex, was placed on paid leave in December and resigned in February after state police began investigating him in response to the disappearance of valuables from the temporary evidence storage at the Williston barracks. The missing items — with a total value of over $40,000 — included a gold Rolex men’s watch, diamond earrings, Apple earbuds and a designer

wallet, court records show.

While investigating the initial bag of stolen property, police discovered other instances of misconduct by DiGenova, according to a state police press release issued Monday.

Citing court documents, state police wrote that “DiGenova took a bag containing seized cellphones in June 2021 from a secure personal property storage area at the Berlin Barracks, and subsequently attempted to sell two of the devices at an automated kiosk at the University Mall in South Burlington.”

DiGenova later marked the cellphones as “destroyed” in the department’s evidence tracking system, according to the release.

DiGenova is also being charged in the theft of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

medication belonging to a child while investigating a disturbance in a Bolton residence last May, according to state police.

In a separate statement released Monday, Col. Matthew Birmingham, director of the Vermont State Police, said he understood Vermonters’ anger and disappointment with DiGenova’s alleged actions.

“Your outrage is appropriate. But I also want you to know that the system worked as well as it can when someone is determined to commit crimes by abusing their power and trust,” Birmingham said in the statement. “The former trooper’s actions were uncovered by his peers, who reported him to supervisors.”

See DIGENOVA on page 13

Prior to her years in the principal role, McDonald spent another 17 years in education as a teacher and coach when she “paused to reflect upon my career and began to think about how I could contribute to a school community in a unique way,” she said. “I enrolled in the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies program at the University of Vermont where I received a certificate of advanced study in educational leadership and waited for the next opportunity.”

Six years after her appointment as the assistant principal, she earned the Vermont Assistant Principal of the Year award given by the Vermont Principals Association in 2012.

“I’ve remained in my position as an assistant principal because I’ve been a member of a strong leadership team, I adore the students I work with every day and I have been given endless opportunities to be creative and take the lead on responsibilities that keep me challenged and fulfilled,” she said.

With almost two decades of experience with the South Burlington School District, when the interim position opened after former Rick Marcotte Central School principal Kathleen Kilbourne resigned, McDonald wasn’t sure if her experience in secondary education would translate well to the elementary level. “I thought, I can do anything for a year, so let me see if I can help out — and I got the interim position, and I was really thinking a year and that

would be it, but immediately I just fell in love with the school,” she said.

To her surprise, the experience she held at the high school level prepared her well for the role because “I know where all these students are going,” she said.

When the interim position was completed and the search for the permanent position was opened, she said she was not ready to walk away from the work that she had started.

With the district shifting the focus to ensure social-emotional learning plays a key role in the district’s learning initiatives, McDonald explained that some of her most important work is “consistently developing strong systems that will produce desired outcomes related to academics and social-emotional development for students.”

With the strain of a three-yearlong pandemic still looming, her goal is to support teachers “in an occupation that has become increasingly more difficult over time,” she said.

Another important area she is focusing on is working with the city to establish safe walking and biking routes to school, especially on Market Street where the school is located.

For students, her focus has been to cultivate the school as a warm and welcoming learning environment where “everybody is somebody,” she said.

“When the conditions of the environment sincerely generate

caring, safety, trust and belonging, the goal of preparing students to make a difference in the world is possible, and our potential is endless,” she said in a recent letter to the school community.

McDonald said that her main strategy has been to work to alter the stereotypical belief that one should fear the principal, whose primary function is to solve problems, interact when conflict is involved and issue consequences for inappropriate actions. Instead, she’s dubbed herself the principal, with an emphasis on “pal,” as an approachable, listening leader.

“Let’s face it, most parents warn their children to stay away from the principal’s office, and many educators experience a sense of dread when an administrator walks into their classroom or asks for a chat,” she said.

Although her departure from South Burlington High School is bittersweet as she waves goodbye to students and faculty she has grown to cherish over the last 17 years, McDonald says she feels thrilled and equipped to be a part of the district in an entirely new way.

“I wondered if elementary students would relate to a person who has spent an entire career at the secondary level. But immediately, I felt like, ‘Wow, this is going to work for me.’ Working with elementary students feels like the most natural thing in the world! Being with my students is absolutely the thing I love most about the position.”

MCDONALD continued from page 1

LETTERS

continued from page 6

fossil fuels and the resulting greenhouse gas emissions.

S.100 is needed to help keep Vermont a livable place for people and to help increase the supply of new homes that are so clearly needed in this state. This bill will modernize local zoning to allow for more smart growth housing. It is the right thing to do.

Stephen Comeau South Burlington

Needles, graffiti along sidewalk not South Burlington we know

To the Editor:

I took a very disheartening walk on March 13.

I walked on the sidewalk on busy Hinesburg Road and saw that the wastewater pump station just south of Deane Street, which had been defaced with graffiti numerous times during the pandemic and that an artist painted last summer. This pump was again tagged on Sunday, March 12, or the wee hours of the morning of March 13.

Graffiti, although always defacement, can have an artistic element. This particular graffito, however, has none. It is pure defacement. The newly repaired brick building, unpainted, was a tempting canvas for someone bent on destruction.

In continuing my walk, I noted that just a bit farther south — just north of the Jiffy Mart on the corner of Kennedy Drive and Hinesburg Road — there was a used hypodermic needle. It was in the middle of the sidewalk when we passed, and my husband kicked it into the snow between the sidewalk and the street. We would have disposed of it, but we had no way to safely handle it.

I have a great deal of

DIGENOVA

continued from page 12

“We launched an intensive, lengthy and comprehensive investigation that led to the filing of serious criminal charges. And we have reviewed our policies and procedures, making changes where necessary and increasing the oversight already in place,” Birmingham said.

DiGenova worked cases in Lamoille, Chittenden and Washington counties.

Prompted by DiGenova’s actions, state police conducted a “complete audit of temporary personal property storage areas” and added surveillance cameras to include more visibility of evidence storage areas, among other changes, Birmingham said.

Eastern High School Nordic Champions

compassion for anyone suffering from opioid use, but I can’t be anything but upset when I see a used hypodermic needle on a sidewalk used so frequently by children, teens and pets. What’s more, I doubt very much the needle was used where we found it. It was likely tossed from a passing car.

Green Up Day is not very far

in the future, and we regularly green up on Hinesburg Road with our 11-year-old daughter. I know she’s used to seeing the refuse of the winter, but these two examples seem part of even larger issues that harm our beloved South Burlington environment.

Elaine Cissi South Burlington

In the sprint, she placed 33rd in 5:32.5, and in the relay her team placed 21st.

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In addition to the instances of theft, investigators discovered that DiGenova had performed checks of vehicle identification numbers for a household member’s car registration business, according to the press release. He admitted to performing checks on out-of-state vehicles without ever seeing them, police said, which violates state requirements.

DiGenova faces 13 charges stemming from four separate cases spanning Chittenden and Washington counties, according to state police. He had been a state trooper since 2009, and his assignments included the Williston, Bradford and Middlesex barracks, as well as the Narcotics Investigation Unit.

DiGenova turned himself in at the Royalton barracks on Monday, police said, and is scheduled to appear in superior court in Burlington on March 23, and in the Barre court on April 6.

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COURTESY PHOTO

The Vermont team took the Eastern High School Nordic championship March 10-12 at Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton, beating teams from New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts and New York. South Burlington High School junior Paige Poirier placed 35th out of 108 overall after three days of competition with 573 points. Poirier competed in the 5k freestyle, placing 38th with a time of 15:25. In the 7.5k classic mass start, she was 34th with a time of 30:37.2.

ARIES

March 21 - April 20

It is very important that you do not count your chickens before they hatch, Aries. Something you suspected was a sure thing may not pan out this week.

TAURUS

April 21 - May 21

You have a secret desire that you want to let out, Taurus. But you’re not sure of the timing. Stop letting your head dictate your heart and put plans into action.

GEMINI

May 22 - June 21

Friendships could falter due to your insecurities, Gemini. Others want to be around you for good reason. Try to see the value in relationships and make the effort to socialize.

CANCER

June 22 - July 22

Cancer, you could be defeating your own efforts this week. There may be something telling you that you’re not good enough to go for your goals. A pep talk can put you back on course.

LEO

July 23 - Aug. 23

There’s a fresh development in your love life coming down the pike, Leo. Romantic feelings solidify and you might be in for some exciting adventures in the weeks to come.

VIRGO

Aug. 24 - Sept. 22

Virgo, the crowd around you may not be the support system you need right now. Making new friends can be tough, but it’s worthy pursuit at this point.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 - Oct. 23

Libra, no matter how much you want to spend time with family or friends right now, work seems to draw you away. Focus on nding more balance.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 23 - Dec. 21

Sagittarius, it might seem like having the utmost control sets you up for security, but that’s not always the case. Being too controlling may push others away.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 - Jan. 20

This may be an emotional week for you, Capricorn. Your relationship will have to weather a few storms before things right themselves again.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 21 - Feb. 18

Poor habits can keep you from getting where you want to go, Aquarius. A friend or family member may need to step in to show you where you could be going wrong.

SCORPIO

Oct. 24 - Nov. 22

You might be feeling fed up with the pace of lessons being taught to you, Scorpio. If the teacher or mentor simply isn’t effective, then you might need to nd a new educator.

PISCES

Feb. 19 - March 20

Help a partner heal by being sensitive to his or her suffering. You may not know all the ins and outs, but being supportive can help greatly.

CLUES ACROSS

1. In uential American political family

5. __ Chantilly, __ de Menthe

11. Within

12. Pleasure seekers

16. Computer manufacturer

17. Home to college sports’ Flyers

18. Fungal disease

19. Sleepwalk

24. Spielberg sci- lm

25. Seasonable 26. Taxis

27. Radio direction nder (abbr.)

28. Thin, narrow piece of wood

29. “Mystic River” actor Sean

30. Ingenuous

31. Musical composition

33. Turkish surname 34. High or hilly area

CROSSWORD SUDOKU

38. Wilco frontman

39. Pour it on pasta

40. Electric car company

43. Sea eagle

44. Walk with dif culty

Here’s How It Works:

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

45. Sign of healing 49. Boy

50. Protein-rich liquid

51. Washington city

53. Individual portion of TV series (abbr.)

54. Thought over

56. Scads

58. News agency

59. Standard

60. Deadlock

63. Pre-Columbian empire

64. Removed

65. French commune

CLUES DOWN

1. Large, dangerous animals

2. Straighten out

3. Family tree

4. Large stinging paper wasp

5. European river sh

6. Cut down in size

7. Denotes past

8. Larry and Curly’s partner

9. Samoyedic ethnic group

10. Male parent

13. Speci c gravity

14. Demeaned oneself to

15. Rigidly

20. Yankovic is a “weird” one

21. Belonging to me

ANSWERS

Path

(abbr.)

#94

of

between

and east

bank

the airport — or BTV — hopes to build out a new wing of its terminal building and remove outdated infrastructure to accommodate the expected increase in flight passenger traffic through Vermont’s largest airport.

“We’re growing, and we have a responsibility to the public to make sure that we’re growing to meet the demands of this industry and of this region,” Nic Longo, the director of aviation with the airport, said.

With those funds, the airport hopes to remove a substantial portion of the north side of the terminal building, which currently houses four gates, four jet bridges and parking positions specific to United and American Airlines.

That area would then be

expanded to better accommodate foot traffic from passengers arriving or departing, or waiting for their flight to board, as well as improved infrastructure for aircraft.

“That really does accomplish two things for us: One is the passenger experience, but two is actually for the aircraft itself, and that’s a big part of these efforts and funding opportunities, to bring those larger planes farther away from our active taxiways and runways because we have additional constraints on the exterior of the building that we need to address right away,” Longo said.

The project is still very much in the design phase and would still need approvals from the Burling-

ton council and administration, and then the South Burlington Development Review Board.

But the new funding comes as the airport rebounds from the COVID-19 — a weird period for the airport, to say the least, when passenger traffic was halted in 2020 and much of 2021.

Longo said the airport then saw a 190 percent increase in passenger travel from 2021 to 2022. Now the airport is just shy of 700,000 outbound passengers, he said, and approximately the same number of inbound passengers.

The airport is at 90 percent of their passenger figures from 2019. TSA officers are screening around 2,200 people a day, according to previous reports.

“Daily passenger volumes at TSA checkpoints at BTV are getting busier every week,” Chuck Woyat, the Transportation Security Administration federal security director for Vermont, said in a release last year.

Since the final quarter of 2022, the airport has added additional flights on existing routes — Newark International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport and O’Hare International Airport, for example — and the aircraft sizes, Longo said, are expanding.

There are still smaller planes, with 50 to 75 seats, flying in and out of the airport. But those plans are slowly getting replaced by mainline aircraft — Boeing 737s and Airbus 320s, for example — which have anywhere from 150 to 200 seats on a single plane.

“That’s happening with every single one of our airlines. Delta is bringing in a Boeing 717. United’s bringing in three mainline aircraft every single night, American’s starting a new mainline flight to Philly,” Longo said. “There’s a lot of growth because those regional planes are full. That’s incredible for Burlington, the growth of Burlington and of course the recovery after COVID.”

The airport forecasts hitting its 2019 numbers, “if not more, given all of these forecasted and scheduled changes in the airlines.”

Burlington International Airport this fall completed a $19 million project — another set of funding that Leahy was instrumental in securing — which brought in a new four-lane security checkpoint with screening technology meant to help reduce security wait times and streamline passenger experience.

Efforts to bring a hotel near the site, however, have faltered, after initial hopes of beginning construction in the fall.

Longo says they are “continuing our conversation” with DEW Corporation, the company involved in discussions.

“We continue to have really robust and healthy conversations on what that looks like, where, and how it goes through the process,” he said. “There is the demand for that hotel.”

“There’s a lot of growth because those regional planes are full. That’s incredible for Burlington.”

— Nic Longo

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