The Charlotte News | January 28, 2016

Charlotte News

The

Charlotte’s award-winning community newspaper

Volume lVIII Number 13

The VoIce of The TowN

Thursday, JaNuary 28, 2016

PHOTO: ALEX BUNTEN

Interim Minister at the Congregational Church 1 A Sock Revolution? O’Sox Launches in Charlotte 1 Charlotte Grad Challengers 10-11 Toy guns – what’s your take? 15

Meet the Candidates night

Charlotte Senior Center, Tuesday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m.

Refreshments will be served. Sponsored by The Charlotte Grange.

Charlottte News

The CharlottenewsVt.org

Vol. 58, no. 13 January 28, 2016

Vermont’s oldest nonprofit community newspaper, bringing you local news and views since 1958

Selectboard finalizes municipal budget John Hammer THE CHARLOTTE NEWS

T

he proposed Charlotte 2016-17 budget is finally done. After a series of hearings beginning with budget reviews last summer and a marathon of meetings through December and January, the Selectboard approved a final budget in time to meet the deadline of January 25. The latest holdup was resolved at its January 19 meeting, when the Selectboard voted to modify the program for funding the Charlotte Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services (CVFRS) capital budget in anticipation of the purchase of a replacement pumper in 2017-18. Previously, they had allocated $100,000 annually toward the capital fund in order to buy a pumper to replace the outdated 1980 model. The price of the pumper, to be purchased in the 201718-budget cycle, has risen significantly to the point where there is a predicted $150,000 shortfall. The Selectboard voted to add $80,000 to the annual amount, raising it to a total of $180,000. This is the equivalent of about two cents in tax per hundred assessed property value. A bond issue will cover any further shortfalls.

After discussion affirming the budget see SelectBoard, page 8

A break for the Brick F

rom Feb. 8–29, The Old Brick Store will close its doors for kitchen renovations and vacation, according to owner Whitney Williamson Finley.

“The changes will be mostly behind the scenes,” Whitney says. “We’re going to do some maintenance and make modifications to the walk-in.”

During the first week of February, patrons can take advantage of a storewide 20 percent discount on groceries, excluding beer, wine and deli items.

“We’re gearing up for the spring and summer season,” Whitney says. “It’ll be here before we know it.”

The Charlotte Congregational Church ushered in 2016 by welcoming Rev. Dr. Arnold Thomas, a celebrated spiritual thinker and social advocate, as interim pastor. Photo: Courtesy

Sowing the seeds

Rev. Dr. Arnold Thomas helps cultivate the CCC as interim pastor Geeda Searfoorce THE CHARLOTTE NEWS

J

ust before the holidays began, members of the Charlotte Congregational Church received an email from Associate Pastor Reverend Susan Cooke Kittredge announcing that the Church’s Cabinet voted to call the Rev. Dr. Arnold Thomas as interim pastor beginning Jan. 1, 2016.

Thomas will lead the CCC for one year, while a new pastor is chosen to follow Rev.

Will Burhans, who has moved on after 15 years of service to serve another United Church of Christ in Winchester, Mass.

Though he has served, during his acclaimed 35-year career, as pastor, chaplain, minister and professor, in places as disparate as New York City, Little Rock, Ark., Williamstown, Mass., and Middletown and Wilton, Conn., Thomas, 62, is no stranger to Vermont.

On the contrary, he and his family have made their home in Underhill for the last ten years. Thomas’ wife, Victoria Anne Short, has held down the fort to which the Reverend commuted from New York City and Southwest Connecticut for 10 years.

Their three grown children have since moved out—one son is studying ministry and lives in Burlington; another son lives in New York City, and their daughter lives in New Hampshire—but Vermont is where the family’s heart is.

“I promised, when we moved to Vermont, that I would never uproot the family again,” he said.

During those ten years, though Reverend Thomas was able to engage with a more diverse worshipping community points south, there was a challenge that left him somewhat depleted. “Wall to wall concrete and people,” Thomas says, “along with the commute, really began to wear on me. Congregation members in Riverside would often say they could tell when I had spent time in Vermont. I was so much more relaxed.”

But working with diverse communities offers benefits that impact every community with which Thomas interacts.

“Vermont is, in some ways, made up of a group of introverts,” he says. “We appreciate the wide-open spaces to escape see r ev. dr. thomaS, page 6

Socks designed to inspire a revolution Carrie Fenn CONTRIBUTOR

I

t’s upon us once again—the quintessential “Hallmark holiday” that some revere and others despise. It’s a massive industry that inspires more than 62 percent of Americans to send cards and flowers, buy chocolates and treat our special someone to a romantic dinner. It’s kept more than a few mothers up late at night frantically searching for the thirdgrade class list, cutting out colorful hearts and gluing paper doilies to construction paper because we insisted our children couldn’t give out “those hideous storebought cards.” Yes, it’s almost Valentine’s Day. And do we at The News have a gift idea for you.

Back in the day When my editor suggested I write a

Valentine’s Day-themed business article, I went in search of a little history. Like most “Saint” holidays, Valentine’s Day was not always the cutesy, pink candy-hearted event we all know.

According to the History channel website (don’t judge me—I had a deadline!), back in forever ago V-Day was a pagan celebration called Lupercalia, a fertility festival dedicated to Faunas, the Roman god of agriculture. Lupercalia involved the sacrificing of goats and dogs in an effort to bestow fertility on the young maids, who later had their names drawn out of an urn by the bachelors in the area.

The pair would then shack up for a year, and if things worked out they got married.

If not, well, they both went back to the urn to try again. Although I could find no factual reference, I believe Lupercalia was also the precursor to the reality TV show “The Bachelor.”

The Christians, in an attempt to put the kibosh on pagan festivals, morphed Lupercalia into a commemoration of Saint Valentine’s death, although it’s unclear which Saint Valentine is celebrated.

A favorite legend is of a priest who performed secret marriages after the rite had been outlawed by Claudius II, who believed single men made better soldiers.

Can we mention the “s” word in a family paper?

Anyway, all this translates to over 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards sent. It’s a huge industry—in fact, according to a 2013 article in Forbes, Valentine’s Day is an $18.6 billion event. Fact and fancy have created our traditional gifts—cocoa was believed to be a source of energy and sexual prowess among the Aztecs, red roses are the flowers of Venus, and those see o’Sox, page 5

O’Sox, a new Charlotte business, aims to shift the conversation about women’s issues. Photo: Courtesy of O’Sox

2 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Voices

Alex Bunten EDITOR IN CHIEF

After a balmy holiday season, Father Frost finally reared his homely head. A few crisp days have brought out the puffy parkas, but not much white stuff. I’m a little concerned that I still haven’t got in a good ol’ fashioned Jackjump on Philo this year. No es bueno. Не хорощо.

How can the official Charlotte team train for the World Championships with this weather? Should we petition the state to blow snow on its first official park?

Because we’re not Jackjumping or pushing snow around the decks, just to stay in shape, The News decided to move its office (see picture on page 19). Nothing too drastic. We only moved down the hall in our usual building on Ferry Rd. Any error you saw in the last issue

The Owl

builds on the server! They all apologize to me for calling me a Noob and help mine for me.

Despite the hardships I have faced before, I am now the top player. It has been worth it.

Finnegan Mittelstadt, Grade 6 I’m Gerald. I was hit by a car and some really nice people from animal rescue came and saved me. I have been kept in an enclosure. People come to see me at 2:30 pm for the show where they learn about me and my life. I eat at 5:00 pm.

Then it goes again.

One day my trainer comes and takes me out. I see this weird looking person; it might be a girl but it looks nothing like my trainer. She wears the same glove my trainer does. She wears this evil face and in the background of this evil-looking child is a person which I guessed was her mother. My trainer looks at me, gives me some chicken and scoots me onto the little girl’s gloved hand. She raises me up and I sit…and sit.

It seems like forever. Then it’s over and my routine begins again, but there is a new part to it. Every day the little girl comes, and each time she looks a little less evil.

Then one day my trainer doesn’t come.

My new trainer is the little girl who has been coming to visit me. Really all she was doing was trying to be my friend so she could help train me. It’s sort of selfish, but it’s really kind.

Persist, a Minecraft Tale Tabitha Auster, Grade 6 I join my favorite survival server and run to the cave I had been planning to explore. I walk into the cave.

The other players on the server say, “That cave is full of poisonous spiders and Creepers,” and, “You will never make it!”

was because we were under the duress of migration. This issue, any error or omission will likely be because we are still trying to locate everything after the herculean shuffle. After this, we should be good.

I don’t know how long we were at that location, but we certainly had a lot of stuff.

The new office is very homey and we welcome visitors (no gifts necessary). We aren’t always in, so do call ahead. Let us know what you think of the paper, pitch an idea, or take a peek at the Archive Project in progress. We have been working hard to pull together a key part of the town’s identity over the past half century and look forward to presenting it to you in the coming year. Interested in history and don’t mind some dust? Drop a line.

February Writing PromPts but I walk in anyway. I judge the distance I have to fall. It looks like only 10 blocks. I jump in. After what feels like forever, my feet hit stone, and the shock from the fall makes me die, but I respawn and walk in again.

The players scream, “I knew you would die, Noob!”

This time, I use ladders and cobblestone.

I make it in without dying, but then a zombie spawns and eats my brains. I respawn, and the players yell, “Ha ha! You died from a zombie attack!”

I craft a sword and armor, climb down, kill the zombie, and I walk in. Before long, I realize something very bad. A Creeper is standing behind me and blows me to pieces. The players are telling their friends now, but I still make torches and light up the cave, but then I fall and land in lava!

I respawn again, and all the players, even my friend, start laughing at me. I almost leave Minecraft forever, but I decide to go in still and make sure to watch my step near the lava. Then I see it, a cavern full of diamonds! Dying and respawning and getting laughed at over and over had finally paid off. I walk up to the diamonds and mine them all.

I craft a set of diamond armor and diamond tools out of them and build a diamond mansion that dwarfs all of the

Week 21 Voicemail: Write a poem in the form of a voicemail message. If possible, make it rhyme! Record it! Alternate: Superhero: Create a superhero. Keep it classic with a comic strip. Or you can make a slideshow, a dramatic soundscape, a portrait or a descriptive story. Due Feb. 5 Week 22 School: What’s the best and the worst about your school? Suggest a practical solution to fix the negative. Be proactive. Alternate: Sound-Typewriter: Click the audio link on this challenge on youngwritersproject.org and write the story. Due Feb. 12 Week 23 Seuss: Write in rhyme! Create a cast of crazy characters! YWP honors the late Dr. Seuss who would have turned 112 on March 2. Alternate: Perspective: Tell a story from the perspective of something unconventional: a chocolate bar, a houseboat, a spider, etc. Due Feb. 19 Week 24 Before: Think of one of your favorite places. Now imagine it 100 or 200 years ago. Tell the story. Alternate: Sound-Train: Click the audio link on youngwritersproject.org and write the story or use this sound and others to create a soundscape.

Due Feb. 26

about young Writers Project Young Writers Project is an independent nonprofit based in Burlington that engages students to write, helps them improve and connects them with authentic audiences through this newspaper; YWP’s web site, youngwritersproject.org, and digital magazine, The Voice; and other partners, including vpr.net and vtdigger.org.

HoW to submit Students, grades 3–12, are encouraged to submit their best writing, photos, audio and video from inside or outside school for publication and/or presentation in response to these weekly challenges.

For information on how to sign up for an account, submit work and get published, go to youngwritersproject.org/publication.

suPPort YWP is supported by this newspaper and foundations, businesses and individuals who recognize the power and value of writing. If you would like to contribute, please go to youngwritersproject.org. support, or mail your donation to YWP, 47 Maple St., Suite 106, Burlington, VT 05401.

The Charlotte News The Charlotte News is a nonprofit communitybased newspaper dedicated to informing townspeople of current events and issues.

It serves as a forum for the free exchange of views of town residents and celebrates the people, places and happenings that make the Town of Charlotte unique.

Contributions in the form of articles, press releases and photographs pertaining to Charlotte-related people and events are accepted and encouraged. For submission guidelines and deadlines, please visit our website or contact the editor at news@thecharlottenews.org.

The Charlotte News is published in Charlotte by The Charlotte News, Inc., a Vermont domestic 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation. Distribution is made every other Thursday to all households and businesses in Charlotte and to more than 50 outlets in Shelburne, Hinesburg, North Ferrisburgh, Ferrisburgh, Vergennes and Burlington.

The Charlotte News relies on the generous financial contributions of its readers, subscriptions and advertising revenue to sustain its operations.

Editorial Staff news@thecharlottenews.org / 425-4949 Editor in chief: Alex Bunten Assistant editor: Geeda Searfoorce Contributing editors: Edd Merritt, Ruah Swennerfelt, Carrie Fenn, Jorden Blucher, John Hammer Copy editors: Beth Merritt, Leslie Botjer, Vince Crockenberg, Carol Hanley Outwater interns: Kali Adams, Madison Hakey

Business Staff ads@thecharlottenews.org / 802-343-0279 Business manager: Shanley Hinge Ad manager: Monica Marshall Circulation group: Valerie Lebensohn

Board Members President: Vince Crockenberg Secretary: John Hammer Treasurer: Patrice Machavern Board members: Bob Bloch, Carol Hanley, Michael Haulenbeek, Gay Regan, Louisa Schibli

Contributors Tabitha Auster, Elizabeth Bassett, Susan Blood, Jorden Blucher, Nicole Conley, Carrie Fenn, Frances Foster, Larry Hamilton, Finnegan Mittelstadt, Kerrie Pughe, Mary Recchia, Lee Weisman, Margaret Woodruff, Kristin Wright, Mike Yantachka

On the Cover A sunset sojourn up Mt. Philo is all too common in Charlotte. Lucky for us, much of the land beneath that wonderful view has been conserved by the Charlotte Land Trust. For more information about what they do in town, see page 7.

Photo: Alex Bunten

Next Issue Deadlines Next publication date: Thursday, Feb. 11 Contributions deadline: Mon., Feb. 1 by 5 p.m.

Advertising deadline: Friday, Feb. 5 by 5 p.m.

Letters due: Monday, Feb. 8 by 10 a.m.

Subscription Information The Charlotte News is delivered at no cost to all Charlotte residences. Personal or out-of-town subscriptions are available for $20 per year (bulk mail) or $40 per year (first class). Please send a check or money order to the address below.

Postmaster Send address changes to: The Charlotte News P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 Telephone: 425-4949 Circulation: 3,000 copies per issue Copyright © 2015 The Charlotte News, Inc. Printed by Upper Valley Press.

Member of the New England Newspaper & Press Association and the Vermont Press Association.

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 3

Voices Commentary: A need for weed?

As a medical resident some 30 years ago I chose to do my required “grand rounds” talk on cannabis research. All the published references I could find focused on defining the toxicity or other dangers of cannabis and THC (tetrahydracannabinol), its active compound. Most were animal studies, and significant adverse effects were seen in some laboratory rats. They were being given doses roughly equivalent to a human smoking hundreds of “joints” at a time. The term “LD-50”refers to the amount of any ingested substance that will cause death in half of the subjects (LD=lethal dose—the lower the number, the more deadly). In several lab rat studies the LD-50 for THC was calculated at either 666 mg/kg body weight or 1,270 mg/kg.

The equivalent dose in humans would therefore predict that half of the subjects who ate 40 pounds of marijuana would die.

The other half would no doubt wish they were dead.

By comparison the LD-50 for nicotine is 60 mg/kg, for heroin it’s 22, and for sugar it’s 30,000 (five pounds can kill you). Five to 10 alcohol drinks consumed within an hour will kill most people (pass out, stop breathing). This certainly does not prove that cannabis is “safe,” only that it’s extremely non-toxic. (There has never been a record of anyone dying from cannabis/THC ingestion.) My stated conclusion at the end of grand rounds was that laboratory rats should definitely avoid marijuana.

In my practice I was not opposed to personal cannabis use by adults, but I was not a supporter of medical marijuana. Good scientific evidence of medical efficacy was (is) deficient. Plus the drug Marinol is THC available by legal prescription (for control of chemotherapy-induced nausea).

Herbalist-type claims that whole plants are better or safer than purified extracts lack proof.

And the laughable medical marijuana program in California confirmed my suspicions that it’s mostly a backdoor approach to full legalization under the guise of medical care. For me it insults the medical profession and is a goldmine for shameless physicians running prescription mills for the money. Walk in, name your disease, get the Rx, pay the fee and head to the pot shop. The Vermont program is not like that at all, but I believe it is flawed nevertheless. Medical prescription of cannabis still strikes me as experimental at best, albeit quite safe, but with very weak science behind it.

The trouble is, the government has not been funding and has essentially been blocking any research into potential medical benefits of cannabinoids. Things have improved somewhat, but it remains very difficult. There are many obstacles and delays. This is a real shame because the fact that tiny amounts of THC have such a strong effect on humans (and rats) demonstrates that we have sensitive internal cannabinoid “receptors” and that we all produce internal “endocannabinoids” for some good reason(s).

An example is the drug company Schering, which tested a cannabinoid-blocking agent some years back, as a potential anti-obesity drug—an attempt

to block the dreaded munchies, I presume.

It didn’t work, but Schering did beautiful, fascinating research defining one role of endocannabinoids as a cog in the complex biochemical cycle controlling hunger and satiety. Yes, munchies are real. Perhaps there is hope yet.

It somehow strikes me funny that, despite extremely low toxicity, widespread covert (and not so covert) use and cultivation, mounting anecdotal evidence for medical efficacy, law enforcement failure and the many uses of hemp fiber, it wasn’t until legislators saw the opportunity for big tax revenues that they got serious about legalization. That’s just how things work. I believe Vermont’s debate on this topic has been a good one, with reasonable opinions expressed on all sides, minimal name calling and grandstanding, and no return visits

by Willie Nelson (yet).

Legalization is a complex issue, although it seems most folks agree that the criminal penalties are way out of line.

Perhaps legalization does send “the wrong message,” as some claim. Maybe it is a ramp drug to the harder, addictive ones (like alcohol and tobacco, or worse). But seriously, let’s get real. To legalize adult cannabis does not implicitly condone or encourage its use; it simply recognizes that we have no good basis for keeping it illegal and that current use is huge and current law misguided and ineffective. (In 2015 Vermonters consumed 15-25 metric tons of marijuana. Enough to kill thousands of rats.)

Those opposed to cannabis use can still voice their opposition and concerns and can still discourage its use, even if it is legal. And misuse can be better addressed with counselors than with cops. Really, if you don’t want your kids smoking pot you better discuss it with them directly, right now, because chances are they’ve already tried it (now 24 percent of Vermont high schoolers have used it, while tobacco use has dropped).

I can understand why law enforcement feels particularly threatened by all this, concerned, among other things, that legalization will lead to an increase in cannabis-impaired drivers, perhaps true.

Recognizing drugged drivers too impaired to drive must be quite challenging when it’s not obvious. It’s a much more complex assessment than the sobriety test and breathalyzer for alcohol. State police do have a few specially trained officers to do non-alcohol “drugged” driver assessment, and this is good but cumbersome. More trained officers are needed, as well as special training for all law officers. Also many police still support the notion of pot as a gateway drug. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (part of the National Institutes of Health) published this in 2015: “…These findings are consistent with the idea of marijuana as a ‘gateway drug.’ However, most people who use marijuana do not go on to use other, ‘harder’ substances.”

Could it be that cannabis use actually discourages progression to hard drugs? I think the police concerns are legitimate, but the problems already exist, now, with no likelihood of improvement, though maybe some worsening with legalization.

It’s hard to predict with any certainty. But to leave things as they are now would do

Legislative Report

by Representative Mike Yantachka

Renewable energy siting It’s 6 p.m. and you’re getting home from work. You walk into your home and flip the switch to turn on the lights, open the refrigerator to get something out for dinner, and turn on the TV to watch the news. All of that relies on electricity. But how often do we think about where that electricity is coming from?

For at least half a century the average person has taken electricity for granted.

Maybe we’ve had a vague notion that a power plant somewhere was pumping out those electrons, but unless we experienced

Unfortunately any type of energy generation has negative consequences, and we need to keep in mind the degree of harm each type entails. While we may not want to see a farm field covered with solar panels, or industrial wind on our ridgelines, they are nothing compared to massive oil spills, tar sands mining or mountaintop destruction for coal.

This past week we on the House Natural Resources and Energy Committee heard testimony from citizens and community leaders regarding the siting of wind and

an outage we didn’t give our energy sources much thought. The fact is that until recently most of that energy was coming from coal, oil, natural gas or nuclear reactors. While nuclear has its own problems, the others pumped tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, contributing to a steady and accelerating rise in greenhouse gas concentrations and global temperatures.

Now that we have become aware of the effects of CO2 on climate change, we have taken steps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources. Vermont has become a leader in renewable energy, getting 40 percent of our electricity from renewables like wind, solar, hydro and biomass, which includes wood and methane from landfills and biodigestors. More than 16,000 well-paying jobs have been created, the highest number per capita in the U.S., and hundreds of millions of dollars in transmission costs have been avoided by distributing generation close to where it is being used, thereby helping to keep Vermont’s electric rates the second lowest in New England.

This accelerated growth of large-scale solar and wind has also resulted in pushback by those who focus on their effects on ridgelines, landscapes and neighbors.

These growing pains are often caused by poor planning and communication by developers, as well as a negative reaction to the aesthetics by some people.

solar facilities. A common theme seemed to be that renewable energy is laudable but needs to be properly sited and scaled down.

For example, a 500-foot tall wind turbine a half-mile from a residential development is not acceptable. Moreover, towns would like the Public Service Board to give more consideration to their town plans and zoning regulations.

While the Vermont Senate is currently developing legislation addressing these issues, my committee is preparing to weigh in once the bill comes to us. Threading this needle won’t be easy. We want to retain the broad public support for renewables and continue to grow this important part of our economy. We want to give town government an appropriate role. I believe we can have large-scale wind with minimal impact to our ridgelines and communities if projects are properly located. We can have large- scale solar that benefits farmers and communities. And we can continue to build out residential and group net-metering that will benefit consumers, make the electric grid more reliable and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change. We just have to find a reasonable compromise.

I welcome your thoughts and can be reached by phone (802-233-5238) or by email (myantachka.dfa@gmail.com). You can find this article and past articles at my website: www.MikeYantachka.com.

nothing … except to leave things as they are now.

For our legislators to create a whole new organizational structure to control legal marijuana use has to be a daunting, scary task. It will take guts and determination and climbing a steep learning curve to craft a good program on such a complex issue. I’m sure they’ll screw it up. But maybe they’ll only screw it up a little, and it would still make things better, more sensible than the way things are now. Luckily they can draw heavily on the experience from five states where it’s already legal. Those states’ systems are screwed up, too, and subject to abuse. But overall they actually work pretty well; they bring in a lot of money, they haven’t caused widespread societal

degradation, and they don’t turn potheads into criminals.

I recommend, along with 54 percent of all Vermonters, that adult cannabis use be legalized and regulated in Vermont. Yes, for the new and welcome revenue. Yes, too, because it’s an amazing plant that folks should be able to grow at home next to their tomatoes and kale for home consumption.

Yes, because it has extremely low toxicity and definite potential medical benefits.

OK, I gotta get back to work.

Lee Weisman, M.S., M.D. (retired), Formerly of Charlotte Family Health Emeritus professor, UVM Dept. of Family Medicine

4 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Has the tree warden been asleep at the switch?

Larry Hamilton CONTRIBUTOR

No one has yet telephoned me to ask, “What is all this roadside mayhem taking place?”, but I have had a few calls about tree cutting and trimming in East Charlotte by “guys with an orange truck and a big wood chipper and a lift bucket.”

I am afraid that much of the Town is in for a roadside haircut, in the interests of electric power line reliability. This year the activity over the next few months will be east of the railroad tracks plus Hills Point Rd, Orchard Rd. and Lake Rd. East. This is service area 28G2 coming from the substation off Ferry Rd. near the rail line. But fear not, Western Charlotters, your turn will come late next year. This kind of thing is planned on a five-year cycle.

Your Tree Warden has worked with Green Mountain Power and its various subcontractors for line clearing work since assuming duties in 1996. It was a bit of a shocker for them at that time to find out that there now was a custodian/steward for Charlotte’s roadsides. But we have developed collegial relations and compromises (such as putting a yardarm on some poles to get lines away from trees and more over the road). When we developed our Charlotte Scenic Roads Map for the current Town Plan, GMP and its contractors realized that Charlotte was a special place and that cutting and pruning needed to be done more sensitively.

I had worked with various contractors such as Davey Tree and Barrett, and most recently with Vaillancourt. As I write this, I am still drying out from a rainy day

session in the field December 22 with a new contractor, Asplundh. (Thanks to Linda Radimer for her call to alert me to their activity on Prindle Road.) Asplundh is known as the originators of an portable wood chipper—orange in color, which was used to make chips from brush and saplings. When I first used one, circa 1954, they could only accommodate stems about 2 inches in diameter, but they have become much larger in the 60-plus years, now taking stems up to 6 inches. Stephen Brooks has an intermediate model, painted black, with which he offers custom chipping.

At any rate I was able to meet with the job unit boss, and the supervisor, call their attention to some minor violations of the Tree Warden law for roadside trees, and to secure compliance with our “do no unnecessary harm” policy. They now have a copy of our Scenic Roads Map, and especially the state-designated Lewis Creek Scenic Road. I have lodged a strong complaint to the Green Mountain Power for not having oriented Asplundh as a new contractor, regarding Charlotte’s policies.

The current raw and unsightly appearance along many of our Charlotte roadsides is due to brush-hogging work carried out by our hard-working road commissioner, Jr. Lewis. Using a tractor-mounted side-elevated brush hog, he has been cutting and brushing in our roadside ditches. This is more severe than usual because the Selectboard has adopted the new State revised ditch standards. These standards require that ditches be 2.5 feet deep, and yet have moderate slopes— they need to be wider, to reduce erosion. Much of this was

Asplundh contractors clearing utility line on Prindle Road, Dec. 23. Photo: Larry Hamilton triggered by the Vermont-wide flooding following Hurricane Irene, and the need to “get ahead of the (next) storm.” Junior normally does ditch brush hogging in late fall, for expected snow cover and time will soften the raw appearance. Junior and I have a good working relationship.

And so, friends, the Tree Warden is not asleep. But he was in fact caught by surprise by Green Mountain Power’s new contractor not being referred to the Tree Warden and told about our local policies and sensitivities before starting work.

Please prepare for some temporary roadside unsightliness, which we will try to hold to a minimum.

Editor’s note: This article may seem all the sleepier by it’s unfortunate omission from last issue when it was meant to run.

Apologies from the editor for, indeed, being a bit dozy at the production wheel after the holidays.

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The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 5

O’SOx

continued from page 1

cute little “be mine” cards are vestiges of, yep, you guessed it, the names drawn out of the urn. (Things are going to get a little dicey here, so if you don’t like reading about “romance” you’d better put this article down now.) This brings me (finally!) to the meat of this installment of Keeping Company.

Andrea Grayson, an adjunct professor at St. Michael’s College and UVM, is looking to start a revolution. She doesn’t need Bernie or a mighty pen or a sword.

Her weapon of choice is socks.

O’Sox, Grayson’s Charlotte-based company, wants to revolutionize intimacy.

Socks? Really? According to o-sox. com, research has shown women are 40 percent more likely to orgasm during sex if they are wearing socks. That’s because when women become aroused, “the part of the brain responsible for processing fear, anxiety and emotion reduces activity and

starts to relax.” Relaxation, “along with safety and security, is closely associated with arousal and climax.” When a woman literally has cold feet, she has a harder time relaxing—and therefore reaching orgasm.

O’Sox’s mission doesn’t stop at a more enjoyable bedroom experience, however.

Grayson is going for a bigger nut. For her, O’Sox represents an opportunity to change the sexual conversation. Specifically, she is aiming for midlife women, offering them a door-opener to talk about intimacy—what they want and need from their partners.

She also hopes to connect with the collegeage male market to change the way that group looks at sex, moving away from a “scoring” mentality and toward a goal of mutual pleasure. Research shows that male arousal is dominated by physical stimulation (duh); creating an opportunity for men to ask questions (“What can I do for you”) and for women to become empowered to share what works and doesn’t allows for more honesty and communication and, ultimately, trust for sexual partners.

Grayson sees O’Sox as a way for couples to

explore the complexity and sensitivity of a woman’s sexual experience.

What makes these socks so special?

I went into my interview with Grayson a bit suspicious. Why would O’Sox be better than my trusty Darn Toughs? Grayson has designed O’Sox specifically for a better sexual experience.

First, through the simple act of receiving a pair of O’Sox, the conversation starts.

Then there are the physical aspects of the socks themselves. Grayson has used principles of reflexology to target points of the foot—elastic around the midsection hugs the instep, which coincides with the part of the foot that relates to the body’s core. Also the heel has a thicker texture, which connects to the reproductive and sexual organs. The ruffled edge on top is flattering on the leg and brings to mind certain aspects of the female anatomy. The extra elastic near the top helps the socks to stay on.

enterprise for social change. A portion of the “real sex education,” as she calls it, with an emphasis on consent. She hopes to introduce these programs in middle schools, where she says kids’ ideas about sex begin to take shape.

So, if you’re stumped as to what to give your special someone this Valentine’s Day, grab a pair or two. They come in two colors, purple or red, and one size fits most. O’Sox are sold on Amazon, at pajamagram.com and at Curve Appeal on Merchants Row in Middlebury. Or if you’re in Burlington the week before Valentine’s day, Andrea will have a pop-up shop at 194 College St. Ladies, slip a pair on and start the conversation.

Contact: Carrie@thecharlottenews.org

SOckS fOr empOwerment Ultimately, Grayson sees O’Sox as an

What’s the punitive aftermath of a bomb scare?

Kali Adams and Madison Hakey THE CHARLOTTE NEWS

An event as impactful as a bomb scare needs to be handled with immense thought and care, especially in terms of the aftermath. When such events occur, a community needs to reflect on what happened, take measures to prevent this from happening again and find ways to help community members heal. In terms of a bomb scare, healing and prevention go hand in hand.

Reflecting on this, Robin Lauzon, Fairbanks House director, says, “It’s important that we build a strong community that cares for and nurtures each other, with the hope that we are able to prevent future incidents from occurring, and that also helps provide all students with at least one adult who they can go to and talk with.”

The reaction from students, many of whom are infuriated by these events, can also be a factor in prevention. Students building an atmosphere that says they reject this behavior often hold greater influence than staff members saying the same thing.

Before CVU’s community can work to prevent these events from occurring, the staff must deal with what happened.

CVU’s policies regarding discipline focus on four types of offenses: fighting, drugs, alcohol, and safety issues. These offenses have structured policies regarding the first, second and third offenses.

“CSSU has a district-wide weapons policy. Bomb threats fall under this policy and call for an expulsion hearing with our School Board. The outcome of the hearing may vary depending on the

individual circumstances of the threat,” Adam Bunting, principal of CVU, said.

CVU faculty members make decisions for punishments if the offense does not fit into any of the four categories. They take into consideration the student’s history, the context of the issue, and past disciplinary actions. CVU’s handbook does mention crimes and subsequent punishments, and, as noted by Bunting, “The weapons policy is outlined in our school handbook.”

In this case, the bomb scare was treated as a violation of the weapons policy because the policy is written as the “creation of an unsafe environment or a threat of,” says Nick Molander, CVU house director. With this policy, the requirement is to bring the issue to the School Board and provide a recommendation of what should be done.

It is usually suspension or expulsion.

Even with a procedure laid out, Molander says it is important to understand the context of the issue. Bunting agreed with this by noting, “We are highly interested in what motivates our students to make decisions that might harm the community. Unfortunately, it is easy for community members to blame the aggressor without considering the role that we all may play in creating the circumstance that leads to crime.”

While CVU can change the punishment to fit the context and the person, law enforcement can not. CVU’s Student Handbook states that the school’s policies are “to be applied in conjunction with the school’s overall discipline plan developed pursuant to state law.”

“We work with the police on any crime that occurs on our campus,” Bunting said.

While regular law enforcement can deal out punishments ranging from community service to jail time, CVU has to deal with the more subtle community-wide consequences.

Molander wondered, “How did we fail this person? Did we not provide the things we need to? And how can we do that in the future?”

These are important aspects to consider as CVU moves on from its second bomb threat this school year. Elizabeth Bundock, $339,000 parent of a CVU senior who lives in Shelburne, says, “We appreciate that the school responds, and it’s appropriate considering what’s going on in schools around the country.” The Cummings family in Hinesburg agrees and says that the school is doing all it can, Privacy & Quality Construction Offered At $649,000 Charlotte considering the ................................................... circumstances.

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6 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Rev. DR. Thomas

continued from page 1

to nature, to this beautiful place. But we can’t fully escape. The world community demands our engagement.” Shifts in population in Burlington and the surrounding towns, along with the wider Vermont community, call for a frank and honest airing of racial tension. To that end, Thomas has been a voice and support for others to address racial issues, celebrating—among others—Curtis Reed, Director of the VT Partnership for Fairness and Diversity in Brattleboro as an advocate working to highlight issues of racism and prejudice that affect people of color statewide.

“Vermont was the last state to establish a chapter of the NAACP,” Reverend Thomas says. “Though we are a progressive state, there is still much road to travel. We must ask ourselves, ‘How do we communicate in such a way that others can appreciate alternate perspectives and not feel threatened?’”

During the Reverend’s year ahead, he hopes to build and engage with the CCC community and orchestrate deeper connections with the larger Vermont community and the world at large. He’ll be meeting with library staff, members of the school system, and other people in the community. One area of focus is to explore immersive programs for people from the inner city to get to experience with the land and people outside the city, an initiative that he hopes will “plant the seed for greater understanding.”

CCC’s engagement with the wider community is evident in a number of its initiatives. Thomas highlights the recent installation of solar arrays that not only provide a low-carbon footprint of energy to the church but also donate any excess energy to communities in need. In this way, the church is actively working towards ecological sustainability and social justice.

“CCC is poised for a fascinating future,” Thomas said. The Vermont Conference of the United Church of Christ—“It’s like a parish or chapter,” says Thomas—is

the largest denomination of Protestant churches in the state and yet it is a region of very small churches. CCC is only one in five Vermont UCC churches that have an associate minister. The population of Charlotte may be smaller, but the congregation numbers at CCC are growing. “A lot of young families are looking for a place to be a part of the community in a spiritual sense, no matter what their spiritual history is.”

Reverend Thomas believes that the United Church of Christ is a natural fit for non-traditional seekers because of its non-credal status—“We don’t force a belief,” he says—and because of its own progressive history as the first church to ordain African Americans, women, and gay and lesbian people. “The church should provide a nonjudgmental space where people can develop, question and discuss their beliefs. A lot of people are afraid to share their questions about faith, but that’s exactly what we’re here for.” In February, Reverend Thomas is conducing a course, titled “Creating Your Credo,” through which participants can put their attention on what beliefs they hold and how they can live in alignment with those beliefs.

Reverend Thomas’ first extended stay in Vermont was during the summer of 1976, between the time he graduated from Hiram College in Ohio and began his studies at Yale Divinity School. The experience offered him the opportunity to visit

PROPERTY TRANSFERS

and help strengthen churches in a number of different towns—Waterbury, Rochester, Royalton, Ludlow, Proctorsville and Weston among them. While working in Proctorsville, Reverend Thomas preached for the first time. “I arrived on a Saturday and the church secretary told me, ‘Always be prepared for the unexpected.’” The established pastor, who had been open with the community about his struggle with alcoholism, was not able to preach the next day. “She asked me to preach and I was terrified. But then she said, ‘If you don’t do it, we can’t have worship.’ Well, I couldn’t allow that.” The sermon he delivered, an “off the cuff” talk using Luke’s gospel about the “lilies of the field,” was so well received by the congregation that they asked him back for the following Sunday.

“This warm, welcoming community of Vermonters embraced me,” he recalled.

He’s been preaching and building community for the last 40 years.

While the search committee continues the process of choosing a new pastor who will lead CCC in its next phase of growth, Reverend Thomas, whose long-term goal is to secure a foothold in a church in Vermont or New Hampshire, is grateful to dig in to the community and help sow the seeds of growth for the future.

For more information, visit charlotteucc.org.

Contact: Geeda@thecharlottenews.org Preston and Chelsea L. Kaigle, 0.85 acre with dwelling, 2616 Guinea Road, $147,500.

Jan. 4. John III and Dorrice Hammer to Mark and Christa Hunter, 5.01 acres with dwelling, 55 Sunset Road, $575,000.

Jan. 11. Roberta D. Wood, trustee, to Steven Dickens and Myra Handy, 10.1 acres, 3117 Guinea Road, lot #2, $179,000.

Dec. 21. Donald Jacques to Gregory Jan. 19. Mark and Linda Colgan to Jacques, 1.55 acres with dwelling, 3541 Barbara Jetton, 1.07 acres with dwelling, Lake Road, $125,000.

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The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 7

Conservation Fund up for vote on Town Meeting Day Frances Foster CONTRIBUTOR

On Town Meeting Day in 1996, a vote was taken that has had a major role in shaping the landscape of Charlotte. That year the town established the Conservation Fund, a grant program to assist with the conservation of Charlotte’s best agricultural land and natural areas. On Town Meeting Day in 2016 the Conservation Fund will be up for a reauthorization vote.

What has happened in the 20 years that the Conservation Fund has been in place? Money from the fund has helped 20 conservation projects succeed, preserving 1,687 acres of land. Slightly less than $1.4 million has been expended, which has leveraged $6.7 million in total project costs.

The availability of the fund has also made Charlotte conservation projects strongly competitive in seeking other grants and funding opportunities.

Conservation Fund projects are located throughout Charlotte, so it’s likely that no matter where you live in town you enjoy the scenic vistas, the views of productive farmland or the forested quiet of wildlife habitat and natural areas that are protected through conservation easements acquired with the fund’s assistance. Several projects have included trail easements that are publicly accessible and have added to the growing town-wide network.

The Charlotte Conservation Fund

has a 20-year track record of success.

Conservation Fund projects have been part of strengthening Charlotte’s agricultural economy and its ecological health and are a major factor in preserving the rural beauty of our town.

Conservation Fund FAQs How mucH is added eacH year?

The amount that is added each year varies according to the fund level, the anticipated project applications and the overall town budget needs. For FY 2016, $90,000 was added to the fund, which represents a bit less than a penny on the tax dollar. The amount proposed for FY 2017 is $50,000. These amounts follow several years of little to no funding when the fund level was high. More recently, several project grants have drawn the fund level down, and current allocations reflect the need to and decided in Selectboard meetings open land have shown that conserved land is build the level back up. to the public. Comments are welcome. beneficial. Land that is conserved does How mucH is in tHe fund now? not generate houses that require town H ow do we know tHat we ’ ll services such as schools, rescue or fire, or The fund level is currently $553,019. be getting wHat we are road maintenance. In addition,, conserved wHo decides on yearly funding? promised in projects? farmland adds to Charlotte’s economic Conservation Fund grants are contin- sector by providing direct employment as Ultimately, Charlotte voters decide how much goes into the fund every year. The gent on the execution of a conservation well as a market for support services and Selectboard proposes an amount as part easement that is very specific about creating value-added products. of creating the town’s yearly budget. That the permitted and restricted uses of a budget is then voted on Town Meeting Day. conserved property. Conservation easeEditor’s Note: The CLT expressed some concern that the “Conserved ments are a legal deed of property interest wHo makes decisions and Public Land” map printed in and run with the land in perpetuity, not about conservation fund the last issue of The Charlotte News just with the present owner. Conservation implied that the properties depicted grant applications? easements are far stronger mechanisms as conserved and open-space lands The Selectboard reviews grant appli- than other means of directing future land are publicly accessible. Although cations made by local and statewide land use, such as deed restrictions or opensome conserved lands do have trail trusts. As part of the application process space agreements. easements, most are private property. several town groups, including the doesn’t all tHis conserved Conservation Commission, the Recreation land end up costing us more?

Committee, the Trails Committee and the For a sampling of publicly accessible lands in Charlotte, see the Maps and Charlotte Land Trust, make comments on No. Conserved land continues to Trails section of the Town of Charlotte the applications. Applications are reviewed generate property tax revenue. Analyses website. of tax rates and the impact of conserved

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8 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Selectboard

continued from page 1

John Snow, corporate president of the CVFRS, presented the quarterly report in accordance with the memorandum of agreement. In it he announced that Dick St. George has succeeded Chris Davis, who has served as Fire Chief for the past 20 years. He was happy to report that the annual paramedic license has been renewed without conditions.

Snow went on to report that the volume of fire calls has remained close to last year’s while rescue calls continue to be slightly lower than expected. Budgeted revenue is almost spot on while expenses are slightly lower. He said that, ”We are not aware of any factors at this stage that would cause us to believe we would materially exceed or undershoot our budget for this year.”

changes made on January 19, minus a slight correction, The Selectboard determined that the budget total for the 201617 Fiscal Year would be $3,013,563, of which $1,618,786 must be raised by taxes and $1,394,77 will come from non-tax revenue. The resulting estimated tax rate is 17.89 cents for next year’s municipal budget, slightly above last year’s estimated budgeted tax.

It must be noted that the budgeted tax rate will be amended in August to reflect changes in the Grand List and any surplus/ deficits from the 2015-16 budget. Last year the budgeted tax rate was changed from 16.66 cents to an actual rate of 14.39 cents, reflecting a large surplus resulting from eaSt thoMpSon’S point road treeS tax sales.

The long–running controversy over the mistreatment of trees on East Thompson’s Warned articleS debated Point Road came to a head at the January The board went on to reaffirm the 25 meeting. Tree warden Larry Hamilton warned articles for the Town Meeting presented a letter to the Selectboard in that were discussed and finalized at the which he reviewed the actions taken. He January 19 meeting. At that meeting two noted that Robert Mack, the owner of the articles on Town Land Use Regulations farm on which the trees were located, were dropped. These concerned a change had been cited to pay $375 for the five in “purpose statements, allowed uses, trees remaining. Mack had not paid the and dimensional standards for the Village town the required amount when due, and Commercial/Light Industrial Districts” Hamilton was asking the Selectboard to and “allowances for Adaptive Reuse of act. Chairman Morrison noted that he had an Existing Structure, two-family dwell- communicated with Mack and arranged ings at the same density as required for for payment in services. The board agreed single-family dwellings.” The rationale and Mack was asked to coordinate with for removal had been that they were too the road commissioner in carrying out the complex and needed further discussion. tasks.

A number of audience members at the Further iteMS oF intereSt January 25 meeting disagreed, saying that a great deal of work had been done Other issues discussed at the January on these articles and that their deletion 19 and 25 meetings included setting the would result in the continued stifling of hourly pay level for Brittany Tenney at small commercial development in the West $14.39 to cover her time as temporary Village. The principal point of contention lister until March. She was also granted centered on potential or anticipated deple- compensation of $25 per hour for her work tion of groundwater resources for present in compiling the 2015 Town Report. The residents. Nonetheless, the Selectboard board also set the pay rate for the new held firm and these items remained off the library assistant at $13.39. In addition, final warning. relative to the library, the board approved the expenditure of $731.95 to replace unretoWn Municipal charter liable furniture and purchase of risers for Article 9, warning the Australian ballot the computers. vote for the Town Municipal Charter, Selectman Fritz Tegatz was authorized was discussed at both meetings. It was to approve the design and construction decided to publish it in its entirety in the of an Eagle Scout bike rack project to be Town Report so all voters could see its full accomplished by Andrew Gay. content. Members of the Town Meeting The Selectboard dissolved the Solutions Committee (TMSC) presented Community Safety Committee due to its a communications plan for educating lack of activity.

Charlotters as to the impact and details The town attorney was authorized to of the Town Charter. They reported that enter an appearance in an appeal of the they would be posting regular notices and Superior Court ruling in a case concerning articles on Front Porch Forum, in both the Old Lantern. town papers and on The Charlotte News Finally, the Selectboard, acting as the website (bit.ly/1POIO7n). Furthermore, Liquor Control Board, approved liquor there will be a series of advertisements licenses to Roland’s Place, Point Bay in the local papers and the TMSC website Marina and the Old Brick Store. (bit.ly/1POILsg). The charter will be the Regular Selectboard meetings will be subject of a meeting to be held before the held February 16 at 4 p.m., February 22 Town School Meeting on the evening of at 7 p.m. and provisionally at 6 p.m. on February 29.

February 29 before the Charlotte Central School meeting. Dean Bloch estimates cVFrS quarterly report that town reports should be mailed to all citizens “around February 12.”

The

Board’s Corner Update from CCS Kristin Wright CONTRIBUTOR

t

he budget being presented to voters on Town Meeting Day is $7,401,800—a reduction of $601,919 from the baseline budget (the estimate of funds needed to operate the school with the same staffing and programming) received at the outset of the budget season and $194,196 lower than the current operating budget. Although the proposed budget is lower than the current year’s, the tax formulation by the state will result in a flat tax rate to town residents.

The State Legislature set spending percentage limits on schools for the upcoming year along with penalties if the threshold is exceeded. The percentage allowed depends on per-pupil spending, a number affected by increases or decreases in student enrollment. Enrollment at CCS declined slightly for 2015-16, contracts imposed modest salary increases for faculty and support staff, and health insurance premiums skyrocketed. The allowable percentage increase for Charlotte was less than 1.5 percent, despite increases in salaries of 3 percent and increases in health care insurance premiums of 7.9 percent.

In this challenging environment, the board asked the new administrators, Barbara Anne Komons-Montroll and Stephanie Sumner, to present reductions in spending of $345,366 at its meeting on December 15, 2015. This would be coupled with a transfer of a portion of the general fund balance that the board deemed was more than necessary to retain as a rainy day fund for unanticipated large expenses.

At that meeting the board learned that, based on revised calculations by the state, additional cuts of $120,000 to $170,000 would be needed to avoid the penalty.

The administrators were creative, thoughtful and thorough in examining every line item of the CCS budget. They began the process by determining priorities to ensure we continue to provide our students with a high quality education, including: - further growing capacity at CCS to meet the learning needs of all students, - maintaining class sizes to optimize student learning and relationships among students and teachers, - making budget cuts in a manner that minimizes the impact on student learning opportunities, - creatively expanding some roles to maximize cost efficiency while

maintaining effectiveness, - taking into consideration programming, infrastructure, modern educational practices, enrollment trends, budget forums and school board meeting input, and education quality standards.

The largest cuts, totaling over $320,000, proposed on January 5 were in staffing.

These included partial reductions in time commitment of the student assistance counselor, behavior systems and response coordinator, technology education integrationist; of Spanish, art, physical education, general music, health and early literacy intervention personnel; of the office staff, baseball coach, custodial staff and maintenance director. Administrators proposed eliminating two full-time regular education para-educators and deploying a primary grades teacher, no longer needed in a classroom due to declining enrollment, to provide targeted help for struggling students and enrichment for other students. The proposal included the elimination of the assistant cross-country coach, softball coach and library para-educator. As a general principle, the responsibilities of positions being reduced will be absorbed by other faculty and staff.

Volunteers will be recruited to assist in roles such as helping in the library and with co-curricular programs such as the geo bee and spelling bee.

The board informally approved a flat tax-rate budget at its January 5 meeting.

Ms. Komons-Montroll was asked to present a budget on January 19 that, after incorporating any additional changes in calculations by the state, reflected a flat rate . At that time, she was able to reinstate a few partial positions, such as technical integrationist, nurse, health education and behavior specialists. She will have a complete accounting of the reduced positions well in advance of the budget presentation the night before Town Meeting Day. The updated information will be posted soon on the CCS website. Early versions of Ms. Komons-Montroll’s presentations have been posted for the public.

The board is very pleased to be able to present a budget that keeps school taxes flat for the coming year, while preserving important programs and personnel at CCS. Our thanks to our fabulous new administrators, the supervisory union and our budget buddies Debbie Deale, Judy Buxton and Andrew Haigney, and to the Charlotte residents who attended budget forums and meetings to provide input.

the charlotte news is on facebook and twitter. follow us!

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 9

ARTICLE 9

The Charter Vote Making Town Meeting Work for Everyone PROBLEM: The traditional Town Meeting format preserves one of the last vestiges of “direct democracy,” a form of government in which every citizen present participates in deciding and voting on the town’s policies and the budgets that determine our taxes. However, due to myriad reasons, the current format of voting on town budget via a floor vote on Town Meeting Day limits the number of town residents who are able to participate.

GOAL: Increase voter participation on the Town budget while maintaining Town Meeting.

SOLUTION: Two-Part Voting Session 1: Town Meeting continues to be held on its traditional date on the first Tuesday in March.

Those in attendance discuss the Town budget presented by the Selectboard, amend it if desired, and then vote the budget from the floor, just as we do now.

Session 2: The budget determined at Session 1 will be put to Australian ballot (voted in a voting booth or by absentee ballot) for Town approval 3-4 weeks later.

Why a charter?

State law requires that towns adopt their town budgets on Town Meeting Day unless the Legislature approves a town charter, approved by the town’s voters by Australian ballot, changing that date to another.

This is a voting initiative - nothing more. It only changes who can vote, when we vote and how we vote. This is not a change in government. If someone tells you something different they are mistaken.

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10 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Thrive on challenge?

Charlotters talk about their CVU Grad Challenge projects Madison Hakey THE CHARLOTTE NEWS

Last year CVU was named the 38th best high school in the country. According to bestcolleges.com, the Graduation Challenge program was a contributing factor in this rating. For the past 22 years, all seniors hoping to walk across that glorious stage in June have had to complete one. According to MaryAnne Gatos, the Grad Challenge and Community Learning coordinator, it’s “a self-designed course in anything you want.”

Seniors are able to choose any topic they wish, as long as it is a new learning experience, and to explore it through both research and hands-on experience. It’s a way for students, faculty and students’ families to ensure that the seniors leaving CVU know how to access information, meet with people and present their learning clearly. These are skills necessary for everyday life and help students to be successful as they enter college and that ever-so-intimidating “real world” beyond.

The Charlotte News caught up with some CVU seniors to see what was piquing their interests.

EarthEnwarE a la FlorE Having taken the ceramics course at CVU, Michaela Flore wanted to continue in that direction for her Graduation Challenge. To make it new, she decided to introduce a different material. Rather than use the usual stoneware, Flore decided

MICHAELA FLORE to use earthenware, which is extremely different in a lot of ways. According to Flore, “Stoneware isn’t porous, while earthenware is. So, when you lick the earthenware, your tongue kind of sticks to the bottom. It doesn’t really stick, but it kind of kisses back and grabs your tongue a little.”

Besides kissing pots, Flore has been busy researching the specific kind of pottery she will be creating for her project—African Face Pottery. She chose this because it is unique and she had already heard about it in her ceramics class. Flore did her research before she started working on her pot because she felt that understanding the symbolism behind the pottery was essential in creating the end product, which will be her own African face pot.

“It wasn’t just something goofy to look at,” she said. “It had a purpose and a meaning in their culture.” After her research is done, she and her community consultant, Jules Polk at Playful Pottery in Charlotte, will work for approximately three weeks

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on getting the techniques down before working on her final pot, which will take about one week to complete. During this time, she will be learning not only the techniques but the processes of firing and glazing as well.

Being caught up in the middle of her busy senior year, Flore recommends that future seniors get to work as soon as possible. “Do your hours over the summer or your research paper,” she said. “Get one of them done over the summer. I cannot stress that enough.”

LILLIAN OATES

aspires to study law and become a lawyer and she is thankful for this opportunity to explore her passion. What would she advise upcoming seniors at CVU to do?

Something they are passionate about, something they can write about. She says, “If the hours are not going to be enjoyable, good luck writing the essay!”

SIMONE EDGAR HOLMES

a passion For prosEcution

acting thE part

For Lillian Oates, grad challenge was exploring a future career. She interned at the State Attorney’s Office in Burlington as a way to look into the socioeconomic makeup of the U.S. prison population.

Her hours were spent filing for attorneys, sitting in on court procedures and observing attorneys’ meetings. The time she spent in court was her favorite. “I watched part of a DUI trial, jury draw and typical things like arraignments,” She said. “I sat in on calendar call, which is when all the attorneys discuss certain cases.”

Now that her hours are done, Oates has a better understanding of a potential career and a new perspective on the legal process. “I’ve seen it in TV shows, but I’ve never been in a trial or seen a jury draw because those things you don’t get to see unless you have an inside view,” she said.

With this new perspective, Oates still

Everyone loves singing in the shower, right? Even though Simone Edgar Holmes didn’t spend her hours in a shower, she expressed herself in a way that she says is quite similar to singing in the shower. For her project, Edgar Holmes explored voice acting. She narrated an audiobook of the short story, “The Lottery,” and produced a 20-minute audio clip of character voices.

Each character voice is only 15 seconds long, but there is a wide array of tones represented—various elderly folks, a mother, some children, as well as Indian, Irish, British and Southern accents.

In the process of recording, Edgar Holmes realized just how much time and energy go into voice recording. She also gained a new appreciation for the audiobooks she listens to regularly. Beyond the hard work, Edgar Holmes also had to get over the embarrassment of the situation— people sing in the shower because no one is

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 11 watching, right?

Her community consultant, Mary Catherine Jones at Voice Over Vermont in Shelburne, did what she could to help Edgar Holmes feel comfortable. During their vocal warm-ups in her living room, Jones would close her eyes so Edgar Holmes could feel comfortable acting out the characters physically. Still, Edgar Holmes’s favorite part of her hours was her time in the vocal booth when she was essentially alone—like the shower.

What would Edgar Holmes say to a rising junior? Find someone you can work with. Even though she was a little sheepish in front of her community consultant, she enjoyed working with her as a person.

RUSTY BERGER

A desire for sAtire Rusty Berger took Graduation Challenge as an opportunity to grow as a playwright. “I decided to go out of my comfort zone and not write a comedy or satire,” Berger said. “Everyone in it is sarcastic in some way.”

Berger’s play is a about an elderly couple and how their lives have made them who they are. As he continues on with the play, Berger says he is having some issues with his characters’ personalities. He states, “It is really hard to keep characters in their character because it’s hard not to let yourself bleed into it.” He has seven scenes so far but says he hasn’t finished the first act so he’s got some work to do. It is a good thing Berger has Geeda Searfoorce, the Assistant Editor of The News, as his community consultant. She teaches through the Vermont Young Playwrights program and has helped him greatly. We think you’re in good hands, Rusty.

teaching the Vocal Ensemble class to sing the song (teaching) and researching the history behind oral transcription and how songs are changed when transcribed (history).

Davis says that while transcription is fun, it isn’t her favorite part. The best part

SABRINA DAVIS

for her is “having that moment when it all clicks.” Before that moment, there are some hurdles to cross. “I had to change my key because I didn’t know what’s good for a chorus. So figuring out what I want it to be like in the end versus what I have now is the hardest part,” she said. Luckily, Matt Davide, a musician and musical educator, is her community consultant. Once she is done, she can begin the teaching process, which is what she is most excited for as she wants to become a teacher. Future seniors should do something they are passionate about, Davis advises, and enjoy the project because they only have one chance to experience it.

Contact: madison@thecharlottenews.org

Beyond books Kali Adams THE CHARLOTTE NEWS

Welcome to the library. No, it’s not just a place to grab a book and read for an hour.

The Charlotte Library has grown into far more, offering a wealth of programs and services in addition to its collection of books.

As society moves into a more digital age, so is the library. The Charlotte Library currently offers digital media on many platforms. “The most popular are the downloadable books,” says Tech Librarian Susanna Kahn. “We have two programs that do that—Listen Up! Vermont and OneClick Digital.” In addition, the public can access a digital version of The New York Times, learn a new language through Mango Languages or use one of the many research databases. “Initially setting up your account can feel daunting,” says Kahn of their online offerings. “But once they do it, people really like the convenience.”

Not sure how to use any of these programs or looking to become more fluent with tech in general? Look no further—Kahn offers one-on-one tech tutorials to teach you what you wish to know. “We’d like people to come in and get connected to this service,” Kahn says.

So much virtual knowledge does change the face of the library. “People that we used to see in here all the time are now checking out books online, which is why we don’t see them, but we know that they’re still patrons.” Kahn says. But she doesn’t feel that this is a negative thing. “One of the big things about a library is providing access to everyone, so if it’s more convenient for them to have an e-book, it’s great that we can do both of those things.” Margaret Woodruff, the library’s director, agrees. “I think from the beginning of libraries, it’s been all about making information accessible, and the way information is presented has changed over time.”

The library tries to accommodate as many interests as possible. In addition to

virtual resources, the library regularly hosts events, both for adults and children.

“We’re doing a coding club for kids right now. It’s a smaller group, but they love it,” says Kahn.

“During the week we have story time, and a couple times a month I have an afterschool program,” Cheryl Sloan, the children’s and youth librarian, says. Children can often take the bus from CCS to the library to attend such programs. “In the summer we have a one-week program with 7th and 8th graders,” Sloan mentioned.

“We’re introducing them to Oliver Twist, Mark Twain and mythology. We always pair a contemporary book with a classic.”

Many children’s programs are aimed at elementary students, because the library has struggled in the past with teen programming. “One of our biggest challenges is getting teens here, just because we’re not near any high schools,” says Sloan. In the future, the library believes it would benefit from a teens-only room.

Adult programming often happens in the evenings, with author talks and book groups, among others. “We try to vary things a little bit to appeal to everyone’s interest. If you’re not interested in poetry, maybe you’re interested in sprouting, or something else,” says Circulation Librarian Cindi Robinson. Sometimes such events bring in people who would not otherwise visit the library. “There’s a draw to come back,” Robinson says. If you haven’t seen a program you’d be interested in attending, Woodruff welcomes suggestions. “If there are things that we’re not doing, I would really like people to let us know.”

The Charlotte Library is, above all, a community-minded organization. Whether you’re attending an event, browsing the book selections or downloading an e-book, the library is proud to bring you many ways to access and share knowledge. When asked which of their offerings held most importance, Woodruff said, “We offer a place where people can meet—that’s an important thing. Just a place to get information, resources and entertainment.”

See page 12 for more about library events.Contact: Kali@thecharlottenews.

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in the key of me Being interested in music, teaching and history, Sabrina Davis couldn’t decide which subject to focus on for her Graduation Challenge—so she decided to combine all three. She is transcribing a Scottish folk-song melody (music), Unpretentious Privacy on 13.5 ac

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12 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Margaret Woodruff CONTRIBUTOR

library valentine bags Just in time for Library Lovers Month, the Friends of the Charlotte Library are selling “Book Lover” Valentine bags: Lake Champlain chocolates and cocoa mix, a festive mug, reader’s journal, library T-shirt and a “blind-date” book ready to bring anywhere in our Charlotte Library tote bag. Stop by the library to see our sample or call 425-3864 to reserve one for your Valentine. Valentine bags for $35, all

Food Shelf News

proceeds to go the Friends of the Charlotte Knitters. Bring your project or get started Library. on a new one with help from the knitting crew. We’ve got needles and yarn to share!

Upcoming @ tHe library Monday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.: Mystery On display at the library: Watercolors Book Group: The Shadow of the Wind.

by Katra Kindar This historical mystery, set in Barcelona after the Spanish Civil War, follows the tUesdays: it’s time trail of disappearing books, mysterious For story time! authors and murder. Copies available at the Preschool Lunch Bunch, Tuesdays circulation desk.

12:15 to 1:15 p.m. Please bring a packed Monday, Feb. 8, through Wednesday, lunch. For children ages 3 to 5 who can Feb. 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: OneClick enjoy story time with or without a guard- Drop-in Sessions. Start reading ebooks ian. Registration required. and audiobooks on your mobile device Early Elementary Story Time with OneClick Digital; recent publica(Kindergarten and First Grade), tions, classics and even Pimsleur language Tuesdays 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Extend the lessons are available. Our tech librarian, school day enjoying books, songs, poems Susanna, walks you through setting up and crafts. Students ride the blue bus to an account, downloading the app and library. Registration required. checking out your first book. Bring your Other Library Happenings smartphone or tablet and any passwords Thursday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m.: Book needed to download apps.

Group Movie, Brideshead Revisited. A *NEW* Tuesday, Feb. 9, 6:30 follow-up from book discussion on Jan. p.m.: Cooking Book Club. Using the 21. Need to catch up? Copies of the book Ottolenghi series of cookbooks, join us to are available to check out at the circulation explore cooking as a cultural, historical desk. and delicious culinary activity that gives Monday, Feb. 1, 3:15 p.m.: Afterschool a sense of time and place. The Ottolenghi Program, “Feed the Birds.” Come to the books—Plenty, Ottolenghi, Jerusalem and library after school and make bird feeders Nopi—will be out on the library tables for for our winter feathered friends. Grades 2 you to look through. Once you’ve found a and up. Registration required. recipe to try, we will make a copy for you Wednesday, Feb. 3, 5:30 p.m.: Library and mark that recipe as “taken.” Bring

Kerrie Pughe CONTRIBUTOR

Holiday basket tHanks Some thanks from the recipients of the holiday baskets: “I’m on Social Security and it helps me out so much as I am in my 80s. God bless the Food Shelf, volunteers and donors!”

“The food basket and gifts were much appreciated. I work two jobs and lost my second job so it was helpful. My grandson who lives with me loved his puzzles and clothes. Thanks very much!”

“Thanks so much.

The kids loved them all.”

“Thank you so much for everything YOU do! My son appreciated all the wonderful gifts he got!!”

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The Food Shelf provided holiday baskets overflowing with food and gifts to 28 local families this season. This represents 115 community members, including 47 children. Thank you to the families and staff of Charlotte Central for generously starting the baskets. We want to thank all those who contributed to, assembled and distributed the baskets. We appreciate all the baking, knitting, and crafting.

A big thank you to the following volunteers: Diane Cote, Lynn Cluff, Ken Oboz, Paula Joslin, Bob Chutter, Nina Falsen, Licia Brown, Linda Gilbert, Cindi Robinson, Nancy Calcagni, Karen and Bill Doris, Janet Landrigan, John Lavigne, Sara Scranton, Laura Iglehart, Susanna Kahn, Deb Stone, Kerrie Pughe, Cindy Tyler, Liz DesLauriers, Rick Knight, Stephanie Wells, Nanci Bloch, Carol Chenevert, Avery Kidd, Sue Hall and Liz Foster.

As always, a big thank you to Boy Scout Troop 615 for helping to distribute the baskets: David Tsounis, Zackery Aubin, Andrew Gay, Keagan Bothwell, Sam Zimmerman, Stuart Robinson and troop leaders Seth Zimmerman and Mike Robinson.

your prepared dish to the Charlotte Senior Center, share our meal and enjoy the cookbook-to-table experience together.

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 7 P.M.: Getting to Net Zero Energy in Old Houses and New. Vermont has a goal of getting to 90 percent renewable energy use by 2050.

Unrealistic? Not at all. We now have a range of tools to make our homes “net zero,” which means the building creates as much energy as it uses. Come hear a presentation about how new construction can be built to net zero and how old housing stock can be transformed from inefficient and leaky to practically fossil fuel-free.

Join us for presentations from Bill Kallock of the Charlotte Energy Committee and Chuck Reiss of the Hinesburg Energy Committee. Discussion to follow, with refreshments provided.

Tuesday, Feb. 23, 7 p.m.: Book Talk: The Life of Truman Naramore, Civil War Veteran and Entrepreneur. A book signing with local historian Richard Allen, featuring his book published in November 2015. Co-sponsored with the Charlotte Historical Society.

library board Next meeting: Feb. 11, 6 p.m. Board members: Emily Ferris, Dorrice Hammer, Nan Mason, Danielle Menk, Jonathan Silverman.

Thanks to the generosity of the Charlotte/Shelburne Rotary, each family was provided with a turkey for their holiday meal. Thank you to Eileen Schilling for the beautiful wreaths for each family, and thank you to Jean Cowles of Arizona for the handmade angel ornaments. Thank you to EatingWell for the donation of baking supplies, organized by Teresa and delivered by Paula Joslin, our new Wednesday evening volunteer. Thank you to Tracy and Lanie Boudin for the homemade Christmas cookies, and thanks to our Secret Santa for the movie tickets for the teenagers.

Thanks to the CCD children of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel for the handmade cards to adorn the baskets. Thank you to all the shoppers from Charlotte Congregational Church and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel for the generous gifts to fulfill children’s wishes from the Giving Trees. A special thank you to the Frank Family and WOWToyz for the wonderful gifts for the children. The hats, gloves, mittens and baby sweaters from the Library Knitters were wonderful and much appreciated. Thank you to Susanna Kahn for doing all the shopping to complete the baskets!

Thank you to those who donated to the Food Shelf in honor or memory of friends, family or co- workers: Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Cote in honor of their parents Emile and Diane Cote; Barry and Susan Cluff in honor of their brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Lynn Cluff and family; Roberta Wood in honor of her friends Remo and Donna Pizzagalli; Jr and Leslie Lewis in memory of Cowboy and Arline Lewis; Thompson’s Point summer resident Deborah Cook in honor of her fellow summer neighbors Jodi and Jeff Smith and Karen and Bill Bruett; Remo and Donna Pizzagalli in honor of Roberta Wood; and Tom and Marie-Pierre Jackson in honor of Kim Findlay.

To read the rest of the Food Shelf News column please go to our new website: charlottenewsvt.org.

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 13

Rec News by Nicole Conley Charlotte Skating rink

3. Please shovel off the entire rink before use; please do not leave piles on the ice. Partial shoveling of the surface compromises smooth ice.

4. If you are the last person on the ice, please remove goal posts to the side (they freeze in place if left on the surface). Turn off outdoor lights and the heater in the warming hut.

5. Please take your trash home with you.

6. DO NOT DRIVE ON THE ICE! Visit our town website for ice updates: charlottevt.org, tab Recreation.

Winter adventure Camp

It’s almost time to skate! The Charlotte skating rink belongs to the entire community. We would like to thank Bill FraserHarris, Ed Sulva and Dave Schermerhorn who volunteer their time to keep the ice in good condition. We would like everyone to have quality skating and fun at the rink, so please observe the following rules: 1. Please stay off the ice when the sign is posted—the rink will occasionally be closed for maintenance work or flooding.

2. Please refrain from skating when the rink is covered with snow or when the surface is so soft that it will be damaged.

Looking for some winter break activities for your kids? Join Common Ground Center’s staff for two fun-filled days in the snow. Your kids will enjoy many outdoor activities—snowshoeing, sledding, exploring the wilderness, building snow forts and much more! In between outdoor activities they’ll warm up inside their lodge with board games, crafts and hot chocolate. Morning and afternoon snacks are provided; participants must bring their own lunch, sleds and winter clothing. Please submit registration forms and payment to the Charlotte Recreation.

For 3rd–6th graders,Tuesday, Feb. 23, and Wednesday, Feb. 24, 8:30 a.m.–4:30

Out-Doors

Winter Triage Elizabeth Bassett CONTRIBUTOR

Look out the window: yesterday pelting rain, today bright sun, tomorrow snow. My crocuses poked up a few weeks ago. When the mercury dipped a few days later, John Rosenthal circumnavigated every cranny of Tupper Lake- 28 miles. For a few days cross-country skiers savored powder and

p.m. at Common Ground Center. Fee: $90 per person.

ameriCan red CroSS BaBySitter CertifiCation This certification program prepares youth with the training every parent wants in a babysitter, including basic child care, first aid, injury prevention and decision making. Space is limited, sign up now!

Saturday, Feb. 6, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at Charlotte Town Hall. Fee: $85.

after-SChool piano leSSonS After-school piano lessons are back, taught by veteran music teachers Mary Beth Bowman on Wednesdays and Lauren Dabkowski on Thursdays. Lessons last 45 minutes in four blocks: 3–3:45, 3:45–4:30, 4:30–5:15 and 5:15–6 p.m. There will be three students in the first two blocks (for younger beginning students) and two students per 45-minute block for the last two sessions (for older intermediate students). The classes will alternate between individual instructional time, small group instructional time and independent practice time. Piano lessons go through Wednesday, May 18, according to the school calendar. Lessons cost $17 each for the first two blocks of time and $26 for the second two blocks. Students sign up downhill skiers could ski on a greater number of trails. Then it rained again.

What’s an outdoor aficionado to do?

Option One: Mount Philo. Every day of the year the Mount beckons to those who need fresh air and want to stay or get fit. In winter it’s all about the footwear: Microspikes, Yak Trax, and Ice Bugs. I keep one pair by the front door- for when the driveway is an ice rink, and a pair or two in the car. These traction devices are preferable to a broken ankle or wrist.

And remember, there’s no such thing as

for lessons through the Rec Department by semester starting immediately.

adult programming Indoor Pickle Ball: Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m., at CCS. Early Morning Boot Camp, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6–7 a.m., at CCS. Fee: $10 per classMat Pilates, Fridays, 6–7 a.m., at CCS. Fee: $8 per class.

Yoga, coming soon! At CCS. Fee: $8 per class.

Fly Tying. Join the fun learning to tie your own flies using many different materials, from feathers to tinsel, natural to manmade, unique to common. Instructors have over 15 years of experience and will teach participants to tie small and simple to large and complex flies with lots of individual attention. Kindly use the Charlotte Recreation Forms to sign up for this program. Facilitated by Vermont Fly Fishing and Tying Club members, Mondays, Feb. 15 and 29, Mar. 7 and 21, April 4 and 18, 7–9 p.m., at The Rotisserie, 1355 Williston Rd., S. Burlington.

Fee: $30 (includes materials). Students provide their own vises, small scissors, bobbins and threaders.

More info: charlottevt.org under the Recreation tab. Or contact Nicole Conley by email Recreation@townofcharlotte. bad weather, only the wrong clothing. As a child I skied in wool mittens, leather boots, cotton long johns, and long woolen scarves- with predictable result: I was cold and wet much of the time. Modern fibers—from fleece made from recycled plastic bottles to Merino wool as thin as silk, have transformed winter wardrobes.

To read the rest of the Out-Doors column please go to our new website: charlottenewsvt.org.

14 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Sports CVU’s Bliss named Coach of the Year

Edd Merritt Sports Roundup Sophia Gorman named top runner in state Charlotte resident and CVU junior Sophia Gorman was named the top girls cross-country runner in Vermont by Gatorade and USA TODAY High School Sports. She captured the Division I title in Vermont to lead the Redhawks to a first-place team finish. She ran eighth in the New England championships before finally finishing 13th at the Northeastern Regionals. In addition to her broader recognition, Sophia was one of two athletes of the month for November as selected by the Vermont Sports Media Association.

Redhawk cross-country coach Scott Bliss joined Harwood’s John Kerrigan as the cross-country running coaches of the year as named by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association.

Scott led both men and women to Division I state titles last fall.

Nordic skiers don’t have to travel to New Jersey for meets Although questionable this winter, there has been enough snow in Jericho and Sleepy Hollow to host Nordic skiing races. In mid January, Tatum Braun’s fifth place, followed by Aidan Corcoran, Meara women and men finished fourth overall Heininger and Alysan Spasyk, among the among 12 schools. top ten individuals, gave the Redhawks second place as a team for women. Tyler Kittredge victory brings Marshall in first place, Peter Unger in second, Ben Loganbach in third, Harken CVU into second place Spillane, sixth, and Jack Koskinan, tenth, wrestling finish gave CVU the men’s team title. In pursuit The Michael J. Baker Classic in Essex races at Jericho later in the month, CVU brought wrestlers from 28 schools throughout the northeast to Vermont, among which CVU finished second. Charlotte’s Kienan Kittredge was the top Redhawk, taking first place in the 195-pound weight class.

Colchester. Although not quite on a par with their sisters, the Redhawk men do stand at 10 wins, five losses for the season.

On Jan 25, a weak second quarter did in the Redhawk men’s basketball team as Rice netted 24 points toward a 69-43 win.

Men’s hockey doesn’t travel out of Chitteneden County to taste victory

Leddy Park and Cairns Arena provide friendly ice for the Redhawk men’s hockey team, with Colchester and Rice unable to Women’s basketball still score in 1-0 and 2-0 losses to CVU. Neither undefeated and still hot team found the back of the net in a 0-0 tie In its most recent win, the CVU against Rutland, although CVU out-shot women’s basketball team could easily the Raiders 26-13. The tie was the fifth of have been called the Charlotte Redhawks, the season for the 5-3-5 Redhawks. with Laurel Jaunich, Sadie Otley and Annabella Pugliese hitting the net for 45 CVU/Mount Mansfield of the Hawk’s 59 points in a 59-49 victory over Mount Anthony. The win makes them women’s hockey have a 12-0 for the season. Wipeouts seem to be successful partnership the name of the game as CVU preceded this victory with 79-35 and 63-18 wins over The Cougar/Hawks stand with 9 wins, Brattleboro and Spaulding.

4 losses and a tie for the season. CVU sophomore Lydia Maitland and freshman Katie Peck have been scoring well in Men’s basketball recent victories. Maitland’s two goals led goes two for four them over Stowe earlier in January, and Mount Mansfield Union and North she followed with a single goal as they Country were the two latest victims of topped the two-school team representing CVU men’s basketball efforts. In the Burlington/Colchester.

CVU’s Peck Mount Mansfield game, Walker Storey notched a goal and an assist on the winning found the three-point range five times for goal in overtime against Harwood, and 23 of CVU’s 54 points as the Redhawks she followed with a single goal in the overcame the Cougars 54-44. Storey’s Burlington/Colchester game.

20 points also led the Hawks over North Country in mid January, and he kept CVU close in a one-point loss (40-39) to

Green thumbs, great brain

Avid gardeners can wax lyrical about the benefits they feel after engaging in their favorite hobby—increased peacefulness, heightened connection to the earth, ease of anxiety. But not until now has science weighed in on the link between gardening and good mental health. Scientists at the University of Florida studied 23 healthy women to see what effects gardening activities had on their brains—and their outlooks.

Dr. Charles Guy, who led the study, cautions that the findings are still being analyzed but he describes the early results as ‘huge.’

The women in the study were asked to participate twice a week for six weeks in gardening activities, including seed and bulb planting, plant propagation and herbs tasting. Brain scans and other psychological observation before and after the gardening program revealed the gardeners were significantly less stressed than the control group.

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 15

Puzzle

Quietly making noise

“touchWinter is a time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. — Edith Sitwell (1887-1964)

Bang! Toy guns and our children Jorden Blucher

this column on Facebook, and of the 40 or so people who responded, slightly more than half said they “Bang you’re dead,” Jamie yells did not allow their children to play as he pops out from behind a tree. with toy guns. Some respondents “1, 2, 3…” I begin to count out gave the reasons mentioned in the loud. When I reach 20 I dart off previous paragraph while others around the corner of the garage. said that they would not let their Guns was a game that my child play with a toy of something friends and I created and played they would not allow them to for hours at a time as kids. The touch in real life. Yet children yards, fields, forest and outbuildhave toy tool sets, toy power tools ings around our homes were the or a toy kitchen in their home—all battleground. The rules were things that we talk to our children simple: be the first person to yell about not touching because they “bang” when you saw someone, are dangerous—though we do and you didn’t have to freeze not worry about them playing and count to 20. You couldn’t with their toy counterparts. lie in wait for someone to finish I’ve come into the room to counting and then “shoot” them see our boys cutting off each again, and if there was a dispute other’s arms with a red plastic as to who said “bang” first saw or cooking up some poison you both ran off in different in their toy kitchen. I’m always directions. impressed with the imaginative My mother, who has always story they have woven in these hated guns, never dissuaded situations, but I also recognize us from playing with toy ones. it as a teachable moment.

There was, however, a lot of We as parents need to stop talk about gun safety, and we being so controlling over what were routinely quizzed on what our children are playing and we should do if we found a real simply let them play. We need gun. Despite all the “shooting” to demand that in our schools we did at each other, we grew the punishment is on par with up with a deep understanding the offense. We need to be and respect for the power and asking why teachers are not danger that a real gun held, as teaching gun safety like they The author on his third birthday. well as for the value of human are teaching fire safety in the Photo: Courtesy of his mother life. classroom. This is easily accomThe knee-jerk reaction to plished using the NRA’s Eddie the increasing fear of guns and a child psychologist, it is about Eagle program (available free violence in our society is to make winning and losing, heroism and online) that teaches kids using toy guns completely taboo in dominance, and who gets to be steps similar to stop drop and roll. hopes that our children will not the good guy. We have come to It is not my desire to change have any interest in them. This, believe, despite research to the people’s minds on this subject. of course, is not the case, as my contrary, that aggressive play will However, I do hope to stimulate a mother noted when I talked to her. turn our children into neighbor- conversation that allows us to step “You were making guns out hood thugs or desensitize them to back and see the whole picture. of all kinds of things, and if you violence instead of recognizing After all, we wouldn’t dream of couldn’t find anything you used their play for what it is—a way for not talking to our children about your finger. Having a toy gun was them to work through problems, drinking, drugs, sex or safe no different.” learn to read facial expressions driving, so why then is there not At some point our society and body language, and help them a greater push to talk about gun adopted an all-or-nothing atti- to process the world around them. safety? tude, and there is now no room for All things that are vital for their middle ground. Children as young development.

Contact: Jorden@thecharlottenews.org as five have been suspended and I posted an informal survey for CONTRIBUTOR

interrogated for bringing a toy gun to school and allegedly pointing it at another student. A boy in Maryland was given detention and made to write a letter of apology for bringing a Lego gun, which was slightly bigger than a quarter, to school. We have become so overprotective of our children that they are given little to no chance to fail or are punished to the extreme.

Allowing children to play with guns is not promoting violence.

According to Michael Thompson,

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Across

Down

1. Certain sandwich 5. Broodish 10. Sky box?

14. Celestial 15. City in Rio de Janeiro 16. It gets pumped 17. Classic film 20. Lt.’s inferior, in the Navy 21. Carry away, in a way 22. Floppies, e.g.

23. Ticket info, maybe 24. Floor items 26. Stephen King title 29. Threat word 30. Drink from a dish 33. Group of eight 34. Horned mammal 35. Old Italian bread 36. Classic film 39. Bolted 40. Lions’ prey (pl.)

41. Great success 42. Load from a lode 43. Arctic sight 44. Underline 45. “Go ahead!”

46. Swaddle 47. “M*A*S*H” extra 50. Garlicky mayonnaise 52. Car accessory 55. Classic film 58. Carpet type 59. Moss-like 60. Org. with a mission 61. Seafood selection 62. Executive branch, informally 63. Calendar span

1. “Lord of War” star 2. Old Spanish kingdom 3. Garden decorations 4. Departure announcement 5. Happy face 6. Turkic language 7. Real 8. Crushing defeats 9. Hong Kong actress, Sally 10. Fuzzy fruits 11. Pupil’s place 12. Honky ending 13. Aims 18. Creep 19. Periphery 23. Bait 25. Military acronym 26. “All for one and one for all,” e.g.

27. Greek god liquid 28. Cubic measurement 29. Provide, as with a quality 30. Fine thread 31. Met expectations?

32. Agreements 34. With footnotes, e.g.

35. Ill-gotten gain 37. Unappealing fruit?

38. Kind of unit 43. Central points 44. Electrical transformer 45. Dreary song 46. Omnivorous mammal 47. Physics calculation 48. Canyon sound 49. East Indian lentil sauce 51. Mosque prayer leader 52. Braveheart hillside 53. Civil rights icon, to friends 54. Apple spray 56. Place for sweaters?

57. Unspecified number

Crossword and sudoku by Myles Mellor. answers to our puzzles Can be found near the Classifieds.

16 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Senior Center News

Mary Recchia CONTRIBUTOR

SNOW DAYS! If there is ever a question whether the Senior Center is closed due to weather, know that we will follow the CSSU school closings that are posted on local TV and radio stations as well as at cssu.org.

The February/March Art Exhibit will feature works from several area fiber artists. Decorating the Charlotte Senior Center great room will be hooked rugs, fiber sculpture, weaving, quilting and needle felting. At its close in March, all will gather together to demonstrate how they accomplish their art.

Step Aerobics with Pam Lord resumes on Friday mornings from 9:15–10. Dates: January 29, February 5, 12, 19, 26. Step aerobics was created in 1989 as a way to get a high-intensity yet low-impact workout. With a portable platform (provided), you will do choreographed exercise routines up, onto, down and around the step for great cardio fitness, as well as exceptional training to shape the lower body, strengthen and tone muscle groups, and improve coordination. Set to music, this low-impact class uses cardio work to produce an easy-to-learn and effective workout. The aerobic benefits are equally effective if you choose to do the workout without the step. Pam was previously certified with the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and will show you how to perform the moves safely with the correct technique and have you stepping like a pro in no time! Registration required.

Fee: $7/class.

A new session of Pilates with Phyllis Bartling will run on Thursday mornings from 8:30 to 9:30. Dates: February 11, 18, 25, March 3, 10, 17. This is not your granddaughter’s Pilates class! This mat Pilates class is designed for folks 55 years and older to be challenging and safe.

Pilates specifically targets the core muscle groups, including the lower abdominals, lower back and gluteals, to improve balance, strength and posture. Exercises are done on the floor on mats (a small rolled-up towel to put under your head is a good idea). Registration required. Fee: $42 per session.

The Center is pleased to host an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Thursday, February 11, from 2–7 p.m. The comfortable atmosphere and great snacks make giving the “gift of life” at this site most pleasurable.

Vivid Birds and Flowers in Colored Pencil with Elizabeth Llewellyn on Thursday mornings from 10–11:30. Dates: February 18, 25, March 3, 10, 17, 24. Get in the mood for spring! Learn how to use colored pencils to render beautiful birds and flowers in all of their rich hues.

Students will work from photos provided by the instructor as they learn about layering, burnishing and scumbling techniques.

While geared for beginners, all levels of skill are welcome in this supportive class.

Registration required. Fee: $100.

And the Oscar Goes to … with Sean Moran and the Play Reading group.

Walk the red carpet on Friday afternoon, February 26, into a vintage movie theater for a special screening of one of the 2016 Oscar-nominated films. Veteran actor Sean Moran will assume the role of emcee, and the “stage” will be set as an old-fashioned Hollywood movie theater brimming with snacks and libations of days gone by.

With the Oscar ceremony only two days away, all are welcome to our Hollywood event hosted by the Play Reading group beginning at 1 p.m. While black tie is

Oscar night in Charlotte is always festive! Members of last year’s event took a break from hosting and play reading to gather for a photo. This year’s event is on February 26. Photo: Courtesy optional, we hope you will come and “dress to impress.” After all, it is the Oscars! Registration required. Suggested donation: $5 for refreshments.

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performAnces And speciAl events showcAsing the diverse interests of our community

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2/3: icelAnd with susAn tucker Iceland is a country of stunning contrasts—glaciers and geothermal pools, geysers and waterfalls, volcanoes and fjords. Join us on a road trip around this island to see and hear about the history, geology and bird life of this interesting place.

2/10: A little-known corner of indiA with h Ank k Aestner

Join Hank for a visit to the northeast corner of the Indian subcontinent. Travel to the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya to see eco-tourism

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The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 17

We still have a long way to go but we are fortunate to have these tools to make pulling invasive shrubs satisfying and, dare I say, even fun!

CHARLOTTE CONSERVATION CURRENTS A tale of two tools Susan Blood CONTRIBUTOR

On a cold morning in September atop Mount Philo, a small group of Charlotters took a one-day invasive plants workshop with an expert from the State of Vermont.

A fire built by the park rangers warmed us as we learned how to identify the invasive plants in our area.

We focused on identifying two shrubs—buckthorn and honeysuckle.

This article is not intended to teach you exactly how to identify these, but once you know what they look like, you’ll see them everywhere. In brief: buckthorn has dark green leaves with almost coppery bark on larger specimens. When you scratch the bark the flesh has an orange color, and their roots are a black tangle of thin roots. Honeysuckle has long, arched shoots, and when you break a branch it has a hollow center. Honeysuckle roots are shallow, which makes them easier to

Choose wisely...between the Extractigator and the Uprooter. Photo: Courtesy apull.

But pulling by hand or even with the help of a shovel to break the roots is difficult work. Our instructor shared with us metal tools with a clamp at the bottom and a long pole for leverage. We broke up into groups of two so that we could learn how to use the tools and get a feel for what they could do. If you go to the top of Mt. Philo you can see our handiwork! Once pulled the best way to ensure that the plant won’t re-root is to hang it, root side up, from a tree. After a year, the hung plants will be

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completely dried out and can be removed.

We found the tools could handle trunks up to 1.5 inches in diameter. Anything larger needs to be sawed and then either treated with herbicide or covered and tied with heavy plastic. Honeysuckle has many shoots, but just start with one and keep going until you get the roots out. You may need to pull from the other side, and working in pairs is definitely helpful, although it can be done alone, too.

But which tool(s) to buy? They cost from $130 to $150 plus shipping. And is there a difference between them? Let me share our experience at Ten Stones Community to give you an idea of what we found.

The first tool we invested in was the Uprooter. It costs $150 plus shipping and can be found at theuprooter.com.

The Uprooter weighs 16 pounds, and at 53 inches tall it offers a good amount of leverage, which can be improved by placing a plank of wood under the foot. I was completely happy with this tool, but my invasives cohorts wanted to try another.

Enter the Extractigator! Made by our friendly neighbors to the north, we chose the standard size Extractigator (also

offered in a junior size) and added the optional Big Foot plate, which makes it easier to pull invasive shrubs. Even small buckthorn that are only .25 inches across are almost impossible to pull by hand. The Extractigator will make quick work of them. The Extractigator with the Big Foot weighs 13.5 pounds, so it’s a little lighter, which is nice. This tool will put you out about $133 depending on the exchange rate plus shipping. More information can be found at extractigator.com.

Which tool do we like better? That’s really hard to say. We often work in groups of three or four and so having two tools is a plus. I initially leaned toward liking the Uprooter more, but the plate on the base of the Extractigator is a real plus. Still, for bigger specimens, I prefer using the Uprooter.

The middle of winter may seem like an odd time to write about these tools, but it’s a great time to do a little research. Perhaps you’ll choose to invest in a tool to assist you with your battle against invasive trees come spring when they are some of the earliest trees to leaf out. When we look around us, this can seem like an insurmountable issue. But we have found that these tools have made a big difference in clearing parts of our land from buckthorn and honeysuckle. We still have a long way to go, but we are fortunate to have these tools to make pulling invasive shrubs satisfying and, dare I say, even fun!

The Charlotte Conservation Commission meets the fourth Tuesday of the month.

All are welcome.

18 • January 28, 2016 • The CharloTTe news

Community Events

Upcoming pUblic meetings Jan. 28-Feb. 10, 2016

Selectboard: Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

Planning Commission: Feb. 4 7 p.m.

CCS School Board: None CVU School Board: None CSSU Board: None Zoning Board: None Conservation Commission: None Meeting times are subject to change. Check the town website for more info: charlottevt.org

Have yoUr say | Selectboard MeMberS |

Do you have a Charlotte event or an event close by that features a Charlotter?

Send description, date, time and cost to Ruah Swennerfelt at calendar@ thecharlottenews.org. Don’t be shy if it’s about you, a friend or someone in your family. If it’s a public event, share what’s happening with your neighbors.

Events in Charlotte or featuring a Charlotter THURSDAY, JANUARY 28 Concert: Greenbush, featuring John Creech and Cobey Gatos, will inaugurate the Thursday night music series at the Stone Corral Taproom, 83 Huntington Rd., Richmond. Drop by for some fresh beer, tasty snacks and some fresh and tasty tunes. Greenbush will be playing from 6:30–9 p.m. Info: stonecorral.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Sports: Free Flag Football Program at CVU on Sundays! A “pick-up” style football program for youths in grades 2–7 to be held every Sunday in February and March from 3:30–5 p.m. in the gym at CVU. Coached by Redhawks football players and supervised by CVU Redhawks football coaches, participants will play in a non-contact, indoor football game comprised of 4-7 players per side. The program is open to all interested youths regardless of town of residence or experience and is absolutely FREE! Info: tinyurl. com/CVUFlagFootball.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Blood Drive: Blood donations urgently needed now and throughout the winter to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients in need. 2–7 p.m. Charlotte Senior Center. Info: 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). redcrossblood.org.

at 12:15 p.m. in the Byers Studio. Info: 802-382-9222 or townhalltheater.org.

Concert and EXPO: Vermont Maturity Magazine presents the 21st annual Vermont 50-Plus & Baby Boomers EXPO at the Sheraton-Burlington Hotel and Conference Center 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Lyric Theatre Revue, dance party, Neil THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Diamond Tribute Concert, food sampling and more. Tickets $4 in advance, $5 Event: “Meet the Candidates Night” at the door. Info: 802-872-9000 or sponsored by The Charlotte Grange will be held at The Charlotte Senior Center on vermontmaturity.com/expo.

Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. Refreshments Ice Fishing: Vermont’s Free Ice will be served. All are welcome! Come Fishing Day: Ice Fishing Festival to meet the Town Meeting Day candidates. be held at Lake Elmore State Park, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Getting to Net Zero Energy in Old Houses and New. 7-8:30 pm, Charlotte Library. Vermont has a goal of getting to 90% renewable energy use by 2050.

Unrealistic? No! We now have all the tools we need to make our homes “net zero,” which means the building creates as much energy as it uses. Come hear a presentation about how new construction can be built net zero, and old housing stock can be transformed from inefficient and leaky to practically fossil fuel-free.

Featuring Bill Kallock of the Charlotte Energy Committee and Chuck Reiss of the Hinesburg Energy Committee. Info: carpegreenum@gmail.com.

Around the region SATURDAY, JANUARY 30 Opera: MET Live in HD: Turandot.

Town Hall Theater, 68 South Pleasant St. Middlebury. 1 p.m. Free pre-show talk

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John Limanek, CPA Claude Schwesig, CPA

Elmore. Sponsored by Vermont Fish & Wildlife. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

Families with kids are encouraged to attend. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Info: tinyurl.com/ IceFishingFest2015.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 Documentary: Van Gogh: A New Way of Seeing. Go behind the myth of the tortured artist to discover the authentic Van Gogh. 11a.m. $10/ $5 students.

Town Hall Theater, 68 South Pleasant St., Middlebury. Info: 802-382-9222 or townhalltheater.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Workshop: Peaceful and Practical Parenting for Parents of Young Children.

Three sessions: Feb. 4, Mar. 3 and Apr. 7. Shelburne Town Hall, Second Floor Meeting Room 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Total fee $40. Info: 802-233-2344 or marisparentcoach@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5 Documentary: Rock on Film Series: Don’t Look Back. In 1965, the iconic troubadour Bob Dylan toured the United Kingdom at the age of 23, and director D.A. Pennebaker was allowed behind the scenes to provide one of the most intimate glimpses of the private and frequently cantankerous songwriter. 7:30 p.m. $10. Town Hall Theater, 68 South Pleasant St. Middlebury. Info: 802-3829222, townhalltheater.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6 Party/Fundraiser: The public is invited to celebrate the 60th birthday of the Shelburne Nursery School, a parent cooperative serving children ages three to five with small class sizes, a sense of community and a balance between nurturing social time and academics.

Featuring Magician Tom Joyce, concession snacks and drinks and a raffle for a hot air balloon ride. $10/child, adults are free. 3 p.m., Shelburne Town Hall. Info: shelburnenurseryschool.org.

Concert: Young Tradition Showcase, a variety of young instrumentalists,

Chair, Lane Morrison, 425-2495 Matthew Krasnow, 922-2153 Carrie Spear, 425-4444 Jacob Spell, 425-6548 Fritz Tegatz, 425-5564 Selectboard Regular Meetings are usually at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. If you would like to bring an issue to the attention of the Selectboard, contact the board chair or administrator Dean Bloch at 425-3071, ext. 205.

| ccS School board | Chair, Mark McDermott, 425-4860 Vice Chair Erik Beal, 425-2140 Kristin Wright, 425-5105 Clyde Baldwin, 425-3366 Susan Nostrand, 425-4999

| cVU School board-charlotte | Lorna Jimerson, ljimerso@wcvt.com Lynne Jaunich, lmjau@gmavt.net

| Planning coMMiSSion | Administrator, Jeannine McCrumb, 425-3071; jeannine@townofcharlotte.com Chair, Jeffrey McDonald, 425-4429 Vice Chair, Peter Joslin Members: Gerald Bouchard, Paul Landler, Charlie Pughe, Donna Stearns, Marty Illick

| Vt goVernMent | vt senate (cHittenden district) Tim Ashe, D/P-Burlington, 318-0903, tashe@leg.state.vt Philip Baruth, D-Burlington, 503-5266, pbaruth@leg.state.vt.us Virginia “Ginny” Lyons, D-Williston, 863-6129, vvlyons@leg.state.vt.us Michael Sirotkin, D-South Burlington, 999-4360, msirotkin@leg.state.vt.us David Zuckerman, P/D/W-Hinesburg, 598-1986, dzuckerman@leg.state.vt.us vermont HoUse Mike Yantachka, D-Charlotte, 425-3960, myantachka.dfa@gmail.com

| U.S. goVernMent | U.s. senators Patrick Leahy, 863-2525, leahy.senate.gov Bernie Sanders, 862-0697, sanders.senate.gov Us congressman Peter Welch, 652-2450, welch.house.gov

singers and dancers performing with their teachers, parents and mentors. Contois Auditorium, 186 Church St., Burlington.

6:30 p.m. Reservations welcomed: mark. sustic@gmail.com. No advance tickets.

Suggested donation is $10 per person.

Doors open and free pizza as long as it lasts at 6 p.m.

The CharloTTe News • JaNuary 28, 2016 • 19

Classifieds

Around Town

Reach your friends and neighbors for only $7 per issue. (Payment must be sent before issue date.) Please limit your ad to 35 words or fewer and send it to The Charlotte News Classifieds, P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 or InterIor And exterIor PAIntIng: If you’re looking for quality painting with regular or low VOC paints and very reasonable rates, call John McCaffrey at 802-999-0963 or 802-338-1331 or 802877-2172. [58-14]

Taegen takes tusks to task. See her film on Youtube—goo.gl/ekTcPL. Photo: Courtesy

Congratulations to John Vito Dubuc of Charlotte and Courtney Elizabeth Howard of Rutland who announced their engagement and who plan to be married this summer. Courtney is employed by Fletcher CSI in Williston, and John is working toward a degree at Burlington College while employed by the State of Vermont Department of Children and Families in Colchester. to the following Champlain Valley Union High School students who were named finalists in the State of the Union essay contest for Vermont high school students sponsored by Senator Bernie Sanders: Maddie Collins, and Charlotters Ellery Harkness, Hadley Menk, Paige Thibault and Peter Unger. These five were among 20 finalists chosen from among nearly 800 students from 39 schools statewide. They wrote essays of 250-500 words detailing their views of the current state of the union prior to President Obama’s own State of the Union address. The winner was Meredith Holbrook, a senior from Milton High School, followed by Vivian Huang from South Burlington and Ryan Racicot, another Milton senior. to Johanna Pinney of Charlotte who earned placement on the University of Delaware’s dean’s list for the fall semester, 2015.

to Taegen Yardley (above left) of Charlotte who spearheaded the making of a film for Ivory Free Vermont titled Vermont Battles for Elephants. Taegen’s ten-minute movie was made in collaboration with the Vermont Commons School and supports passage of bill H.297, which would outlaw the sale of elephant ivory and rhino horn in the Green Mountain state.

Taegen says, “We have created this short film to help raise awareness about both the conservation and humanitarian reasons as to why it is so important to ban the sale of ivory.” The film has gained international attention and has been tweeted by the Embassy of the Republic of Gabon to the

SEND US YOUR NEWS SHARE YOUR TOWN VIEWS News@thecharlotteNews.org

United States and has been shared with the chief of the Division of International Conservation at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. to Michael Metz whose series of digital images, titled “On the Beach,” is on display at Local 64 in Montpelier through Feb. 1.

South of the border, cheaper than water.

The N. Ferrisburgh Mobil reflected global petrol prices. Photo: Alex Bunten to James Vogler whose new series of paintings titled “Long Range Forecast” is on display through February 29 at the Main Street Landing in Burlington. to Madison Tieso of Charlotte who earned placement on the dean’s list for the fall semester 2015-2016 at Castleton State University, Castleton, Vt.

Sympathy is extended to family and friends of Lillian Hardy-Stevens of Essex who passed away January 14 at the age of 77.

Her surviving family includes her daughter Mary Patnaude and Mary’s husband, Jason, of Charlotte. The family asks that those wishing to make memorial donations in Lillian’s name consider doing so to the American Cancer Society, 65 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495 or to the Lund Home at lundvt.org. is extended to family and friends of Suzanne Grenier of Montgomery and Essex Jct. who passed away January 22 at the age of 65. Her surviving family includes her brother Randy Longe and Randy’s wife, Nancy, of Charlotte. The family asks that those wishing to make donations in her memory consider doing so to a local animal shelter.

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by Central Boiler adapts to existing heating systems & heats with renewable wood pellets. Boivin Farm Supply 802475-4007 [58-14] coordInAtor oF VolunteerS, chArlotte SenIor center. Parttime, 15 hours/week, flexible schedule between 9 a.m.–4 p.m. varying weekdays.

Responsibilities: recruiting, training and scheduling volunteers critical to operation of active center. Must enjoy working with seniors, be organized, flexible, outgoing, have basic computer skills. Job description at charlottevt.org, click on Senior Center. Send cover letter and resume

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T he C harloTTe N ews Voice of the town since 1958

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