Feb. 4, 2016 Essex Reporter by Essex Reporter

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FeBRUARY 4, 2016

Vol. 36, No. 5

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Industrial development planned near Saxon Hill By Jason sTarr The Essex Reporter

A plateau near the Saxon Hill Forest that offers what town planners described last week as Essex’s “best and perhaps only” view of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks is on track for industrial development. The Essex Planning Commission unanimously approved a sketch plan Thursday for an 18-lot development on an 84-acre parcel bordering Route 117 and the Saxon Hill Forest on the eastern edge of town. Planners included a stipulation that the developer � Al Senecal of Allen Brook Development (owner of the Saxon Hill Forest as of 2014) � provide for a public look-out from the best vantage point. “Once a spot like that is gone, it’s gone forever. So this is one of those junctures in time,” Essex Community Development

Director Dana Hanley said. The application will return to the planning commission for consideration of a more detailed final plan at a future meeting. The parcel climbs an approximately 8 percent grade to the plateau, where a former sand-mining operation has left a cleared landscape devoid of topsoil, applicant engineer Paul O’Leary described. About 30 acres of the parcel will be developed, Senecal added, with the remaining acreage left as forest and wetland. The parcel’s industrial zoning allows for such uses as manufacturing, research and development, warehousing and trucking, among others. Mining would be a conditional use. A pedestrian easement will extend a network of trails that are part of the preserved land in the Saxon Hill Forest — 245 acres that are under agreement with Senecal to become publicly owned by the town. Senecal

and the town reached the agreement last year after Senecal purchased the forest from longtime landowner Hector LeClair. LeClair had been embroiled in a perennial dispute with town officials about the forest’s restrictive zoning designation. He had planned to combine his Saxon Hill lands with the adjacent 84 acres (that he called “the Kimo property”) in a master plan that included industrial and residential development along with publicly accessible conservation land. He disputed the town’s delineation of where the conserved and industrial land would be while trail users organized to oppose any redelineation. There was also public opposition to any change in zoning that would allow residential development. Senecal and the selectboard are in the final stages of negotiating precise boundaries between the preserved land and land

By colin FlanDErs The Essex Reporter

OLIVER PARINI PHOTOGRAPHY

and grazed their way through the local product booths, and three raffle prizes were awarded to lucky Buy Local Market customers. After a long day of debate in Montpelier, members of the Vermont House of Representatives’ Committee of Agriculture arrived just in time to compete the Capital CookOff against members of the Vermont Senate Committee of Agriculture and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture. Hosted by Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Chuck Ross and Deputy Secretary Diane Bothfeld, the Cook-Off gives teams only one hour to shop the Buy Local Market and prepare an attractive, delicious, and locally sourced dish. The Vermont Agency of Agriculture team took the Capital Cook-Off top honors for the second year in a row.

Top: Kelly Stone of Fairfield checks out a Kubota Track Loader from Essex Equipment at the Vermont Farm Show at the Champlain Valley Exposition last week. Bottom: Goats from the Pine island Community Farm in Colchester eat hay in a stall at the Vermont Farm Show at the Champlain Valley Exposition.

NPR contributor and former Essex resident publishes new book of essays By liz canTrEll For The Essex Reporter Longtime NPR contributor and former Essex resident Tim Brookes has recently published a second, expanded edition of his 2005 work, “The Driveway Diaries,” and a new collection of public radio essays, “The Ghosts of Good Intentions.” Told with selfdeprecating humor, both volumes chronicle small-town, rural Vermont life through the eyes of an English expatriate. After receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees in literature at Oxford — with a brief two-year teaching stint at the University of Vermont in between — Brookes moved to Vermont permanently in 1980. He has since published 15 books and written for National Geographic, Outside, and Vintage Guitar — but if you asked him years ago at Oxford about his potential writing career, he would have laughed. In some respects, Brookes said, attending a university steeped in a prestigious literary tradition was “great for someone’s

– See DEVELoPMENt on page 3a

Trustees approve train station revamp plan

Digging the farm show

armers, producers, and localvores from across Vermont converged on Wednesday, Jan. 27 for the fifth annual Consumer Night at the Vermont Farm Show at the Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. Held on the second night of the Farm Show, Consumer Night celebrates the diversity of Vermont agriculture with the Winter Buy Local Market and Capital Cook-Off. The Winter Buy Local Market featured over 50 farmers and producers of local cheese, meat, fruits and vegetables, milk, maple syrup, jams, culinary oils, honey, wine, beer, spirits, wool, and handmade crafts as well as ready-to-eat prepared foods such as Maple Wind Farm’s bacon hot dogs and ice cream cones from Kingdom Creamery. More than 500 people shopped

available for industrial development. “I am anticipating the agreement to be ready for the town manager to sign in the very near future,” selectboard chairman Max Levy wrote in an email to The Essex Reporter. “The pending litigation is not relieved until this agreement is signed and executed.” Senecal said he is under contract to purchase from LeClair the 84-acre parcel planners reviewed last week — pending permit approval. LeClair originally planned an industrial development for the property in the early 2000s, according to O’Leary, his engineer. With efforts to change the concept and zoning designation to residential failing in recent years, the current application is a renewal of the original concept.

development as a writer,” but on the other hand, “you’re filled with a sense of inadequacy because you’re constantly being told how all these dead writers are great and you couldn’t possibly be one of them.” “It took me probably 10 years of writing essentially pretentious poems and short stories to get that out of my system,” he admitted. What was the catalyst for change? Moving to Vermont, he said. “The thing that changed the course of my writing for the better was moving to Vermont and writing for a local newspaper,” Brookes said. “That was when I started getting a sense of what to write when people were actually reading what you wrote, versus ‘great literature’ that no one will read.” In the mid and late 1980s, Brookes wrote for the Vermont Vanguard, the now-defunct alternative weekly that became a breeding ground for the future Seven Days. In 1989, Brookes began writing monthly

– See BooK on page 3a

The Essex Village Board of Trustees has approved a plan for the Essex Junction train station with the hope of better accommodating bus and rail passengers. While there is no funding currently available to make improvements to the station, the trustees hoped to have a proposal ready in the event federal funding becomes available. Essex Junction’s train station serves the Burlington area with daily Amtrak service to Massachusetts, New York City and Washington, D.C.; a much-anticipated reconnection to Montreal is in the works. The study was a joint venture among the village staff, the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and hired consultants; it examined the station and formulated a list of potential needs. During their meeting on Jan. 26, the trustees unanimously approved a plan that includes $1.1 million in structural improvements. The proposal includes a canopy structure that would provide overhead coverage for parked buses and some rail patrons, an upgrade to the station bathroom and lobby, as well as a new crosswalk and curb extensions on Railroad Avenue. The plan also takes into account the possibility of an electric vehicle charging station. The approved plan was one of three options presented to the board by consultants Bob Chamberlain, senior director of Resource Systems Group, and John Alden, an architect with Scott and Partners. Changes to the train station’s surrounding streetscape — which would cost an estimated $205,000 — convert Railroad Avenue and Ivy Lane to one-way streets running north and southbound to help ease conflict between buses and vehicles. Railroad Avenue would then have three designated lanes: one for travel, one for parking and one for buses to pick up travelers. The approved plan would create an additional 720 square feet of green space, and nearly 3,200 square feet of sidewalk. Of the three proposals, the trustees’ choice

– See stAtIoN on page 2a

Essex Junction woman makes Peace Corps dream a reality By colin FlanDErs The Essex Reporter Buried in the closet of Taylor Dorn’s Essex Junction home sits a piece of paper on which her bucket list is spelled out in vibrant orange lettering — written during her fourth-grade “gel pen phase.” Among her top three goals? Become a Peace Corps volunteer. She has spent much of the past two years doing just that. Dorn teaches English to students and teachers at a local secondary school in her Panamanian community. She has spearheaded several other projects including a sustainable recycling program and a life skills workshop for seventh- to tenth-graders. Additionally, she facilitates an English language club in association with the Peace Corps’ World Wise Schools program, in which international schools partner with schools in the United States to foster social

and cultural exchange. Dorn also helped establish the school’s “reading corner” with the help of The Brownell Library, which donated over 200 pounds of children’s books to fill the shelves of the school’s library. “The children have games, art supplies, a quiet space to read and other educational materials to use at their disposal. For the [grand opening], the children were entertained by a professional storyteller and also got to read in a Library Bus. It is now used on a daily basis and the children really love it!” Dorn wrote in an email to The Essex Reporter. As a 2013 graduate of the University of Vermont — which ranked as one of the Peace Corps’ top volunteer-producing universities in the nation this year — Dorn credited her undergraduate work in global studies with a double minor in Spanish and anthropology for cultivating a solid foundation that prepared her for Peace Corps service.

– See PEACE CorPs on page 2a

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

pEacE corps from page 1a

“The issues that I was exposed to in college also motivated me to see firsthand what the situation is like in developing countries. I want to do work in international development, and in order to do this you need to understand the situation, which is something you can’t fully appreciate from behind a desk,” she said. Acting upon Taylor’s example, UVM recently launched its own Peace Corps Prep Program in which current students may enroll in coursework geared towards international development with the expectation of pursuing that field after graduation, in hopes of encouraging more students to explore their potential overseas. “I wish I had this opportunity when I was at UVM,” Dorn said about the program. “It sounds like an incredible experience, and one that I would encourage anyone who is considering joining the Peace Corps to take advantage of.” Although much of her time has been spent interacting with the local community, Dorn said she’s also had ample time for self-reflection, which has spurred a “substantial amount of personal growth.” “I learned that I am an introvert in the sense that when I need to recharge

my batteries, I have to be by myself. I also learned how to conquer my fear of taking risks for things that I want,” Dorn said, such as running for president of the Gender and Development committee, a position she now holds. While Dorn’s efforts have many serious implications, she said her time in Panama has also been filled with laughter. During a youth camp at which Dorn was working, she and her Peace Corps partner decided it was time to bring a little excitement with the help of two green, full-body jumpsuits. “We started by spreading the rumor of a strange beast that has been seen the past years at camp lurking around the edges of the woods at night. The creature has the body of a human but with no face and moves with big bounding leaps. So for a few nights we lurked around the exterior of the camp site and let a few campers catch glimpses of us to help spread the rumors,” she said. Finally, the campers were allowed a full view of the mysterious green beings. “They weren’t even fazed by our actions and knew right away who we were. So we had fun and did things like try to eat their cell phones, be afraid of the light switch and other crazy stuff,” Dorn said. It’s experiences such as this that Dorn said she would miss the most

Unified school board is sworn in

Taylor Dorn poses wearing a pollera — a traditional dress that many Panamanian women wear during cultural presentations or for special holidays. PhoTo CoNTRiBuTED

about her time in Panama, which is scheduled to end this month. “People are very friendly in my town and it’s always a good day when I have the chance to walk through it and talk to them along the way,” Dorn said. To follow Dorn’s Peace Corps service in Panama, visit her blog at whereintheworldistaylordorn.blogspot. com. A portion of this article was taken from an article that ran in the Peace Corps Northeast publication.

sTaTion from page 1a

results in the least amount of parking spots lost — 15 in total. Other options would have cut up to 28 parking spaces. The trustees voted for the plan that was recommended by the consultants. “We sit outside our house in the summer and see that train station, and we see how that traffic is and what the people are like — it’s crazy,” trustee member Lori Houghton

said. Houghton said that while the creation of one-way streets may require some getting used to, she fully supports the idea. “I think [the plan] will slow down traffic and make it a lot safer for the people who are walking in our community and using the services,” Houghton said.

physical therapy & athletic training within a specialty gym

The Essex Village Board of Trustees approved a plan to revamp the Essex Junction train station during its meeting on Jan. 26.

merged!

Police looking for help in finding Essex resident

Essex police are looking for help in locating and confirming the welfare of an Essex resident who was last seen on Saturday. Police are looking for 58-year- Darcy Fields CouRTESY | SCoTT + old Darcy Fields, who is believed to PARTNERS ARChiTECTuRE CouRTESY oF be traveling in her red 2011 Subaru ESSEX PoLiCE Impreza. The license plate reads GPE 285. She Shopping is described as 4 feet 10 inches tall, and was last Essex Jct. Center confirmed at her home in Essex on Saturday afternoon. 802-878-4010 M. Essex 9:30 AM -6 PM Sat. Police Officer John Ruttenberg said there’s nothing T-F. 7:30 AM -6 PM that indicates Fields is in need of immediate medical . 7:30 AM -4 PM ARBER HOP SHATANDICAPPED A CCESSIBLE attention. Anyone who has seen Fields or her vehicle — or has any information Logics $8 each or as to her whereabouts — is asked to contact the Essex Police Department at 802-878-8331.

GARRY'S B

have

It was all smiles for members of the Essex Westford Educational Community Unified Union School Board as they were sworn in on Jan. 26 at Essex High School. About 40 voters from the three combined districts — Essex, Essex Junction and Westford — gathered in the high school’s auditorium for the brief ceremony before taking action on a list of articles. While state statute requires this “town meeting style” format is used for a district’s initial organizational meeting, moving forward, the school board will operate as a traditional board with only members voting. One of the evening’s most notable decisions was the election of three officers: John Sonic (moderator), Cindy Cusson (clerk) and Erin Maguire (treasurer). They each will serve a yearlong term. When the school board was elected in November, only nine people were chosen to fill the 10 open seats, while a oneyear seat from Essex Junction remained open. That seat has since been filled by Wes McClellan, who was appointed to the position by the Prudential Committee, which currently oversees the Essex Junction School District. McClellan served on the study committee that looked into and eventually endorsed the unification. Although the board is comprised of 10 members, the members from both Essex and Essex Junction will have one vote each, while the two members from Westford will each have a .5 vote. The board decided not to set a date on its annual meeting, but the date for a half-day retreat would be scheduled sometime this week, explained board member Brendan Kinney. “The goal of this meeting would be to set some basic ground rules about how the board will function, participate in a training session offered by the Vermont School Board Association on good governance, and to establish a basic timeline,” Kinney wrote in an email. He added the retreat will allow board members a chance to get to know each other before the next meeting, when board officers, including the chairperson, will be decided on. The board — along with districts’ staff — will now begin working on the transition to a single district. This work includes hiring a superintendent, working with teachers and support staff on contracts and developing a budget for fiscal year 2018. When the new district starts operating in July 2017, all of the former boards and the supervisory union will be dissolved. — Colin Flanders

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The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

Engagement

By Gloria Deeley

Essex Area Senior Center Meal Site

have returned from my eightmonth hiatus! It’s good to be among some of Vermont’s finest — the members of the Essex Area Senior Center/Meal Site and the Essex Reporter community! My article will be published the first Thursday of every month with the luncheon schedule, and of course some sort of “literary masterpiece” — a little humor! February is a great month for me to return — it’s Valentine’s Day, a feast day of St. Valentine, the celebration of love and affection. Many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special Valentine. This is the time to show kindness and thoughtfulness to friends as well as that special valentine. Exchanging small tokens of affection on Valentine’s Day has been a tradition since the 17th century. So, as this special day approaches, please remember, Through my involvement with the Essex Senior Citizens, now Essex Area Senior Center, I have been fortunate to meet so many wonderful people who added so much to my life here in Vermont. I have been in Vt.

Li-Williams engagement

cake hosted by St. James and Essex Congregational. Program: Love Song Sing Along with Tom McCaffrey

“There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than

Tuesday, Feb. 23: Advisory Board Meeting Center Site. 10-11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26: Senior Center pot luck - stay the afternoon and enjoy each other’s company. This month’s Wednesday pot luck is moved to Friday.

true friendship” —Thomas aquinas

At the center since 2011, and a resident of Essex since 2012. The people who I have met along the way will always be friends.

Easc meal site Wednesday, Feb. 10: Center for Technology of Essex (CTE) Culinary Meal -11:30 - 12:30. Baked Cod - tickets requiredpurchase at luncheon. Please note early time Wednesday, Feb. 17: Maple Street - soup (CTE), sandwiches and

Soup and sandwich members: $2, guest $3

meals:

Pot luck: Members bringing a dish: Free, no dish: $4; guests bringing a dish: $1 and without a dish, $5. Membership can be obtained at the EASC. Luncheons are 12 -1 p.m. with participants arriving from 11 a.m. on to visit and enjoy the company. Good food, good time, and good people!

Dennis and Gretchen Williams of Essex Junction announce the engagement of their son, Bryant Williams, to Yingjia Li, daughter of Jihui and Ruihua Li of Qingdao, China. Bryant is a 2010 graduate of Cornell University and currently lives in San Francisco, where he is the founder and CTO of Lessthan3 and Maestro companies. Yingjia graduated from the ESC Business school in Montpellier, France. She currently lives in San Francisco and is getting her CPA certifications. There will be a traditional Chinese Wedding Celebration in Yingjias hometown of Qingdao, China on March 7. Dennis and Gretchen will be traveling to China for 10 days to attend the celebration. There will be a celebration stateside in August here in Vermont. The couple will continue to reside in San Francisco, Calif.

Bryant Williams and Yingjia Li

Happy Valentine’s day!

book

from page 1a essays for National Public Radio, some of which were also published in the Vermont Sunday Magazine as a column. Many of his essays dealt with adjustments to rural Vermont life. “One of the things that I discovered was that they [NPR listeners] really liked the notion of someone who was, to a certain extent, an outsider looking at the United States and American culture and commenting on it with a degree of humor,” he said. “Especially when I was living in Essex, I was really doubly an outsider. Not only was I an Englishman, but I was essentially a townie moving into the countryside,” he explained. “That was the impetus for all kinds of humor— mostly at my own expense— and a lot of reflection.” After the Vermont Sunday Magazine ceased running his column, Brookes found that he missed writing about small-town life. He recalled feeling that many of those pieces were among his best work — and they seemed to have a theme. “In particular I was fascinated by how often my driveway kept turning up, and that was the genesis of “The Driveway Diaries,” he said. Originally published by North Country Public Radio in Canton, N.Y. in 2005, the series sold well but went out of print due to issues with the publishing company. A decade later, it seemed time for a reprisal. “When we moved back into Burlington I thought I should add in four more stories which close the book on my time in Essex, so now there’s a complete arc,” Brookes explained. Unlike the straightforward process for “The Driveway Diaries,” the story behind “The Ghosts of

development from page 1a

“We all know the history,” O’Leary told planners Thursday. “Now we are back to this.” The application calls for a new road extending north from Route 117 (River Road) into the development. The development will be served by municipal water and sewer. The plateau is flanked by ravines, and planners committed Thursday to reviewing plans for each lot that would protect the stability of the ravines. As lots are sold, each lot owner will require site plan approval before building. O’Leary said several lots could be combined for larger businesses. “We may find one or two big users on the whole plateau,” he said. A stormwater pond is planned for the edge of the plateau, and another is planned to capture road runoff at the bottom of the hill near Route 117. New Clean Water Act regulations from the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources require the development to be phosphorous neutral, O’Leary said — not adding to the problematic phosphorous level in Lake Champlain. The Winooski River, a major lake tributary, lies at the bottom of the hill. O’Leary said the new stormwater infrastructure associated with the development will be an improvement over current unmanaged runoff into the river.

Former Essex resident, NPR commentator and Champlain College associate professor Tim Brookes has published a new book of essays and a second edition of his first book, “The Driveway Diaries.” Photo contributed

Good Intentions” is anything but typical. “I did that in an unusual way. I posted a whole lot of the essays on my website and invited people to choose which should be included in the anthology,” Brookes said. As an exercise in crowd-editing, Brookes was surprised by the “amazing results” that “changed the entire nature of the collection.” “I had thought of it as conventionally as just a ‘greatest hits,’” he recalled, “But it became clear that people had very strong and consistent preferences. People wanted something that was coherent and about me, my family, and that English perspective on Vermont and the United States.” Accordingly, the collection became more of an autobiography than an assortment of essays. The other crowd-based suggestion that surprised Brookes — and that he

initially dismissed — was to arrange the stories in reverse chronological order. The more Brookes considered the idea, the more he liked it. “Going back in time it becomes investigation and inquiry into your own life,” he explained. “In a way that’s what we all do. We ask, ‘how did I get here?’” Like “The Driveway Diaries,” much of “The Ghosts of Good Intentions” deals with specific people and events in Essex, and on Chapin Road where Brookes lived. For some of his public radio essays, Brookes interviewed local residents and tracked community interest stories. These small town “slices of life” form the core of the collection. The curious title, “The Ghosts of Good Intentions,” comes from an experience Brookes had in 2006. While in the process of cleaning his home before selling it, Brookes noticed the large assortment of debris and random objects that had accumulated on the windowsills in his living room: a sponge, an eraser, a tin of Altoids, a Rubik’s cube, lip balm, two Q-tips, numerous coins, and other common “junk” items. Brookes writes in his introduction, “To the casual ear, these may sound like junk, but I see them as the ghosts of good intentions. They were the inevitable casualties of family life. Every one of those objects had value and purpose, and was waiting in the wings of our house for a cue that never came.” Some years later, Brookes stumbled across scores of his published essays, stored in unorganized folders on his laptop. Brookes felt a connection to his “junk” experience in his living room. He writes, “Like the debris in our living room, these had been spun outward until they had reached the windowsills of my laptop. I recognized them at once: they were

Tax bills due March 15 Property taxes for the Town of Essex and the Village of Essex Junction are due Tuesday, March 15, 2016. Payments may be made in person at the Town Clerk’s Office, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at 42 Allen Martin Drive, Suite 10 through March 2, and then at 81 Main St. commencing March 7, 2016. Taxes may also be paid at the Village Clerk’s Office at 2 Lincoln St.; or mailed to: Town of Essex, 81 Main St., Essex Jct., VT 05452, or Village of Essex Junction, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct., VT 05452. Mailed payments must be postmarked by the due date of March 15, 2016. You may also pay your taxes online with a debit or credit card. Flat Visa Debit Convenience Fee: $3.95; Credit Card Convenience Fee: 2.39%. Go to www.paylocalgov.com/townofessex-vt or www.essex.org Payments can also be placed in the drop box next to the main door of the Town Clerk’s Office at 42 Allen Martin Drive through March 2 and then 81 Main St. commencing March 3r; or the Village Clerk’s Office at 2 Lincoln St. until midnight of the due date. Please include check and stub in the drop box (No Cash). Delinquent taxes are subject to an 8 percent penalty March 16.

Notice to Village of Essex Junction property owners: Changes have been made to the way property taxes are being billed and collected. The Village of Essex Junction, Essex Junction School District and the Town of Essex have entered into agreements for the Town of Essex to bill and collect all property taxes in the town, including Village of Essex Junction and Essex Junction School District. All tax rates pertaining to your property are listed on your Town of Essex property tax bill. All of your homestead/housesite information for VT income sensitivity filing is now combined on this one bill. Checks should be made payable to “Town of Essex,” but may be dropped off at either the Village office or the Town office. If you have questions about your property tax bill, call the Town of Essex Finance office at 878-1359. You will not receive a separate tax bill from the Village. The Town of Essex administration is planning to move back to 81 Main St. on March 3-4, 2016. The offices will be closed during the move, and officials hope to have the office back up and running on March 7, 2016.

the ghosts of my good intentions, my efforts to support my family and to bring tiny, curious, and revealing moments from my life to the (often bewildered) American public.” The “ghosts of good intentions” thus became an appropriate title for the collection. But the windowsill phenomenon— “throwing out” junk, trash, and separating the important from the inessential—became a larger metaphor for Brookes. “It’s also characteristic of the way in which I try and look at myself and my life, not too seriously and seriously at the same time,” he explained. The windowsill phenomenon, the ghosts of good intentions that we all have, became a symbol for how we reflect upon and organize our lives and memories. Plus, Brookes adds, it forces one to have a sense of humor. “In order to avoid the risk of being a pompous jerk, maintaining that sense of idiocy is really valuable,” he said. In addition to his public radio essays and nonfiction writing, Brookes is an associate professor in the professional writing program at Champlain College. He also founded and directs the Endangered Alphabet Project — a nonprofit that brings awareness to disappearing indigenous languages. He is currently working on a novel. The expanded second edition of “The Driveway Diaries: A Dirt Road Almanac” and “The Ghosts of Good Intentions: A Life in Public Radio Essays” are available at local bookstores and at www. timbrookesinc.com, where the author will sign them at your request.

Essex Automotive Services TIMINg bELT REPLACEMENT

Unlike a “timing chain,” which is made of metal, a “timing belt” is made of rubber. While a timing chain only needs to be replaced when there is evidence of wear or other problems, a timing belt must be replaced at regular intervals. Recommended replacement intervals at approximately 60,000 miles are intended to prevent timing-belt failure, which can result in considerable engine damage. Another reason to replace an old timing belt is that it stretches over time, which can lead the engine timing to become too delayed. Symptoms of delayed engine timing include lack of power and slow pick-up. It is usually recommended that the water pump also be replaced at the same time that the timing belt is changed.

At ESSEX AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES, we have the knowledge to properly repair and, more importantly, maintain your means of transportation. Is it time to replace your timing belt? Bring your car, truck, or SUV to 141-147 Pearl St, Essex Jct. to have it inspected by an automotive professional. Call 802.879.1966 to schedule an appointment today. We feature A.S.E. Technicians. We are open for Business!

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The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

O pinion Perspective

Governor grasps for doctors and dentists tax By John McClaughry

In his January budget message, Gov. Peter Shumlin announced a new source of tax revenue to help fill the ever-gaping Medicaid budget deficit ($55 million in Fiscal Year 2017). He proposed that the provider assessment now applied to hospitals and nursing homes be expanded to independent physicians and dentists, at 2.35 percent of net patient income. “This will,” he said, “raise $17 million in state funds and draw down $20 million of the federal dollars that we’ve been leaving on the table.” This game began in 1991. In that year the legislature ill-advisedly bought into a Massachusetts-invented scheme called “MediScam.” The Federal government matches state money raised to fund Medicaid. The matching percentage (called FMAP), is approximately 55 percent for 2017. The scam came in when the state levied a “provider assessment” on hospital net patient revenue, and similar assessments on nursing homes, home health agencies and intermediate care facilities, to produce its 45 percent. At the same time, the state promised the providers that they’d get back their assessment. Then the state could spend the remaining 55 percent as free federal money to keep Medicaid afloat. When MediScam threatened to produce a treasury raid by the states, Washington capped provider tax assessments at 25 percent of state Medicaid expenditures. The $17 million of new assessment revenue will put Vermont at 97.565 percent of the federal cap. This is the federal money that Shumlin says has been “left on the table” by Vermont’s failure to maximize its taxes on its health care providers. The new tax would fall on independent primary care doctors, dentists, osteopaths, psychiatrists, naturopaths and (certain) specialists. Of the $17 million Shumlin expects to collect from the doctor-and-dentist tax, $12 million, matched by $26.3 million in federal funds, will be used to partially fill the annual Medicaid deficit. A total of $8.4 million will be used to increase Medicaid primary care reimbursements, and $1 million will increase Medicaid dental care reimbursements. Doctors and dentists who have no Medicaid patients will have to raise their charges to private patients to pay the new tax. Because they’re independent, they cannot effectively bargain with health insurers for increased reimbursements. That means the providers are likely to have to absorb the provider tax. The Vermont Medical Society opposes the doctors-anddentists tax because of “the devastating impact such a tax would have on the state’s ability to attract and retain physicians, and the resulting decrease in patients’ access to care in the face of current and worsening physician shortages.” An independent Burlington psychiatrist, Robert Emmons MD, who treats Medicaid patients at no charge at a free clinic, writes “I cannot recoup the tax in the form of higher Medicaid reimbursements. If the governor’s proposal is enacted, the entire 2.35 percent tax will be passed on to all my patients, along with the administrative cost, so it is really an illness tax, not a physician tax”. What seems clear is this: There is an immediate, desperate need to pay for constantly escalating Medicaid costs. But beyond that, there is a need to drive independent doctors and dentists into the employ of large scale health care institutions, organized into an all-inclusive Accountable Care Organization. Then Shumlin’s promised “all payer” system — his latest invention to succeed his abandoned single payer plan — cannot be thwarted by independent doctors and dentists dedicated to serving their patients at reasonable prices — prices that don’t include the inflated “facility fees” added on by hospital-owned practices. A major concern with grand single payer or all payer health care schemes is that falling reimbursement rates will cause doctors and dentists to depart the state. The Hsiao Report of 2011, that formed the basis for the single payer idea, allocated $50 million of the enormous expected savings to pay doctors not to leave. Shumlin’s doctors-anddentists tax won’t pay them not to leave. It will tax them for staying. John McClaughry is vice president of the Ethan Allen Institute, online at www.ethanallen.org.

Letters to the Editor Free form planning The Essex Planning Commission is having another “Open Mic Night” on Feb. 11 to hear from anyone about anything planning related — except pending applications. There are no other items on the agenda. Whether it is the development review process, regulations or longer term visioning, the planning commission is eager to hear from community members. This event will be held at the Essex Police Department at 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction. For more information the Essex Community Development Department at 878-1343.

Dana Hanley Essex community development director

At the mercy of health care costs In the discussion on school finances and the education bill, some local legislators seem to be faulting school boards for spending. Some have stated that boards are intentionally overspending the legal cap and drawing double taxes for their districts. Let’s consider some facts. Everyone in the health care industry knew health care costs would surge sharply

General Manager Suzanne Lynn

Editor/Co-Publisher Maria Archangelo news@essexreporter.com Office Manager Michael McCaffrey michael@essexreporter.com

within the legislative school spending cap. There have been options on the table for school financing other than the current punitive caps. One option was a graduated education income tax, which would have taken much of the tax burden off property owners by spreading it to working Vermonters who do not own property, but whose children are in the schools. Another option was to take a higher percentage of present sales taxes for schools or add a penny to the sales tax, or both. These options would have met a test for equitability statewide. Instead taxpayers got a hastily cobbled together bill pushed by the governor’s office because voters were angry about taxes and wanted a quick fix. The fix was hastily crafted, based on a misinterpretation of figures from a state agency, and will continue to harm school systems statewide. Perhaps it’s time to repeal the entire education bill and consider other options that still exist.

Paula DeMichele Essex

Divided elections It's still January, and The Essex Reporter says the school budget is all set (“School budget up, taxes down” Jan. 28). And we'll vote on it in ... April?! Why not on Town Meeting Day,

like most towns in Vermont, including the large neighboring towns? I've been asking this question for over 20 years. Back in the 1990’s, there was some excuse, due to the way state education aid was figured. But that excuse faded into history with Act 60. Having to travel to the polls separately in April may well explain the typical low turnout — and probably also reduces turnout in March. School board and selectboard, please talk to each other and combine both elections into one day.

Moshe Braner Essex

Sue Cook for selectboard If you would like representation on the Essex Selectboard that is thoughtful, smart and straightforward, then I encourage you to vote for Sue Cook. Sue and I served together on the Essex Thoughtful Growth in Action Working Group, and it was a pleasure to hear her observations and ideas. She listens, is respectful and is clearly a consensus-builder. Most of all, Sue cares about our community and will work hard in helping to govern.

Ben Gilliam Essex

From the Statehouse

The fourth week of the 2016 legislative session Bob was an unusual one, to the final week Bancroft similar of the 2015 session. The House of Representatives did not finish the week’s business until 1:12 a.m. Saturday morning with the passage of S. 233, which makes changes to Act 46, the education bill passed last year. Act 46 contained allowable spending thresholds for each school district. If a district exceeded their threshold, it was subjected to a penalty (100 percent of spending over the threshold). As school boards began to build their Fiscal Year 2017 budgets last fall, many discovered they would be subject to the penalties and began to lobby for changes to Act 46. On Jan. 19, the House Education Committee reported out H. 556, which called for raising the education spending thresholds contained in Act 46 for fiscal year 2017 by 0.9 percent. Upon introduction, it was immediately sent back to the committee so it could address the mistake in the information the Agency of Education sent to school districts regarding the calculation of their allowable spending caps. The corrected data caused some schools that had constructed budgets under the spending caps to go over the caps and subject to a penalty (e.g. the Essex Junction School District). On the same day, the Senate passed S. 233, which called for the total elimination of the spending thresholds. The following day it was introduced in the House and referred to the House education committee. The education committee opted to set H.556 aside and take up S.233 instead. The committee reported out a substantially altered S.233 on Friday, which was then sent to the Ways & Means Committee for their consideration. Instead of eliminating the spending thresholds, the education committee included a 0.9 percent increase to the FY17 caps in Act 46 (as in H.556). The altered bill called for reducing the spending penalty from 100 precent of excess spending to 25 percent. One other important addition was an amendment offered by Rep. Paul Dame of Essex Junction that would hold school districts harmless from penalties brought about due to the new data from Agency of Education. Given Rep. Dame’s hold harmless amendment would not be taken up until S.233 reached the floor the following week (after Ways & Means’ review), he submitted the amendment as a stand-alone bill (H.627) on Friday, Jan. 22. At the same time, he motioned that the House could take it up and vote on the bill, since the education committee had already approved the language — thereby removing the uncertainty facing many school districts. His motion was defeated (Yeas, 57; Nays, 85). I voted for a motion to allow for the immediate consideration of H.627. On Wednesday of last week, S.233 was taken up by the

Reporter The

in 2016. These rates are set by the two largest insurers in the U.S. and adopted by other smaller insurers nationwide. Premiums are rising close to 8 percent this year, more than double the rates in 2015. The rise in health care costs nationwide was predicted fairly early in 2015. Were the legislature and the education committees unaware of the predicted rise, or did the committee simply choose to ignore it when crafting last year’s education bill? Or did they arbitrarily choose to factor in a smaller rate increase? Was the rise in health care costs factored in at all? Is anyone asking these questions in the legislature? Like hospitals, schools are labor intensive institutions. It seems the only way a school system can control health care costs is to fire employees and/ or make them pay more of the premium. The Essex/ Westford board has now stated that 85 percent of the 2016 budget increase is from employee salaries and benefits going up. I question how the Essex/Westford district will be able to absorb a 2016 rate rise of 8 percent and then absorb the same rate rise in 2017 and 2018. If future retirements don’t materialize as needed, even savings generated by cutting upper level positions will not make multiple health cost increases sustainable

Essex

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full House. The rules were suspended after the vote was completed so that passage of the bill could be voted on immediately instead of the next day. S.233, as amended by the House, was passed and sent to the Senate. Late the next day, the Senate passed out the House’s version of S.233 with three changes: 1) increasing the spending penalty from 25 percent to 40 percent of excess spending; 2) any school district with per pupil spending (with certain exclusions) below the state average would not be subject to penalties regardless how much their spending increased; and 3) elimination of the Act 46 spending cap penalties in FY18. The revised Senate bill was put on the House notice calendar on Friday. The normal procedure would be to discuss and possibly amend the bill Tuesday after having a full legislative day to consider it. There were two attempts to suspend the rules to allow the passage vote to take place immediately. Both attempts were defeated. Many voted against the suspension because they needed time to talk with school board members and fully assess the impact of the revised bill on school budgets. (Many House members of all persuasions felt each side was playing games. Playing games is in the eye of the beholder. Some felt that those opposed to suspending the rules were obstructionists, while others felt they did not have the necessary time to assess the impact of the law on their school districts.) The Speaker of House, Shap Smith, was not to be thwarted. The Friday session was adjourned until 12:01 a.m. Saturday. Having a session on Saturday would allow S.233 to come up for a vote without a suspension of the rules. Upon reconvening Saturday morning, there was some discussion of the bill and a vote on an amendment, which failed. The bill passed on a roll call vote. I could not support S.233. The net effect of its passage would be a 1.25 to 2 cent increase in the education property tax rates this year and the prospect of an even bigger increase in the following year. For all intents and purposes, the passage of S.233 guts the FY17 and FY18 education cost containment provisions of Act 46. Before the passage of S.233, the projected FY17 homestead tax rates in the Town of Essex, Essex Junction and Westford were all below their respective FY16 tax rates. With the passage of S.233, the FY17 homestead tax rate in each town is projected to be above their current FY16 tax rate. Last week, the House also passed the FY16 Budget Adjustment Act on a voice vote. I voted against the bill as it significantly increases General Fund spending. The additional spending contained results in a 5 percent increase over the FY15 budget. For several years we have seen budget increases in the 5 percent-plus range while revenues are growing around 3 percent. Despite several tax and fee increases over the last few years, the state continues to face structural budget deficits. This is particularly disturbing given the underfunding of the state employees’ and teachers’ retirement funds and very low reserves. It is very disconcerting to think about the severe consequences a recession will have on our state budget. On average, recessions occur about every seven years. While there does not appear to be any immediate danger of one, it will happen and likely in the not too distant future. The Health Care Committee, which I serve on, is involved in reviewing the ongoing problems with Vermont Health Connect. I tried to get an amendment to the Budget Adjustment Act that would have required an independent evaluation of the exchange’s long-term viability. The amendment was defeated, but the idea is not dead. The Health Care Committee has started to delve into the “all payer model” being proposed by the governor. Other topics the committee is looking at are prescription drug pricing, universal primary care and funding for community based health organization (like the Visiting Nurse Association). Bob Bancroft represents Westford and rural Essex in the Vermont House of Representatives.

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

Upcoming Events

w w w. E s s e x R e p o r t er . c o m / a r t s - a n d - e n t er ta i n m e n t

“Purrrses for Paws”

Call for Artists. The 10th annul Discover the Heart of the Islands: Open Farm and Studio Tour will be taking place this summer on July 9 and 10 and is looking for local artists to exhibit and demonstrate their work. All artists will be clustered in 14 different locations around South Hero, North Hero, Grand Isle and Isle Lamotte. All venues will have an appropriate number of artist spaces for exhibiting and demonstrating work. This event allows people to visit vineyards, farms, gardens, art studios, galleries, and farmers’ markets. Meet the artists, agricultural producers and their animals living and working within sight of, and sometimes at the edge of Lake Champlain. Registration for artists before Feb. 5 is $50, after this the price increases. Information: http://www.openfarmandstudio.com/

Live and silent auction benefits humane society

By Liz Cantrell For The Essex Reporter

t is impossible to determine how many stray pets exist in America, but estimates from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) range from 50 to 70 million for cats alone. With Vermont’s winter temperatures plunging each day, stray animals in our state face a particularly difficult challenge for keeping warm and finding shelter. If you want to help stray, abandoned, or shelter animals in need of homes this season and all year long, consider attending the Feb. 11 Humane Society of Chittenden County fundraiser “Purrrses for Paws.”

Current Exhibits Column Inch Collection: Michael McCaffrey. The Column Inch Collection gallery, located inside the offices of The Essex Reporter and Colchester Sun is excited to be exhibiting work from Essex Reporter and Colchester Sun employee and Essex artist Michael McCaffrey. McCaffrey will be exhibiting a curated collection of “doodles” from his 2015 Daily Doodles: 365 Days of Art personal challenge. Working mostly in a variety of markers and pens, his work is highly illustrative. Exhibit on display through Jan. 11-March 11. Gallery Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: Essexreporter.com/CIC

“Purrrses for Paws” fundraiser benefiting The Humane Society of Chittenden County

Feb. 11 6 – 8 p.m.

at the Burlington International Airport, mezzanine level. Tickets: $25 each at chittendenhumane.org/News-and-Events

“Purrrses for Paws” will consist of a live and silent auction of new and likenew purses, with all proceeds directly benefiting HSCC. While individual community members donate many of the bags for sale, HSCC also solicits purses from local clothing stores and thrift shops. “Last year was our first event and it was very successful. About 200 people came,” recalled Kylie deGroot, Development Manager at HSCC. The event is slated to be one HSCC’s major fundraisers for the year. Founded in 1901, the HSCC’s mission is to foster compassionate treatment of animals and to prevent animal suffering. HSCC is not affiliated with other organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States. In fact, according to the ASPCA, the approximately 13,600 community shelters nationwide use generic terms such as “humane society” and “SPCA” without national oversight or regulation. ASPCA data estimates that 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year. Each year, approximately 2.7 million animals are euthanized and an equal number are adopted.

The Brundibar Lecture Series: Children and the Arts in Extreme Circumstances. In March, Theatre Kavanah and In Tandem Arts will present an original conception of Brundibar: A Musical Folktale. To put this historically significant work in context, on Feb. 6 Dr. Ellen Handler Spitz of the University of Maryland will deliver a talk entitled, Children, Music, Art and Hope. All children need the arts, and the power of Brundibar testifies to that need, not just with regard to children helplessly caught in dire situations, but to all the world’s children. Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Firehouse Gallery, Downtown Burlington, 7:30 p.m.

Here in Vermont, HSCC takes in between 800-1,200 animals each year and welcomes as many as 20,000 visitors annually. In addition to fulltime staff, more than 200 volunteers offer their time to HSCC. While much of HSCC’s work involves pet adoption, including cats, dogs and other “smallies” — such as rabbits, ferrets, and hamsters — the organization also offers other services and programs.

“We are the only shelter in the state that has a humane investigator on staff to help investigate cruelty cases.” Kylie deGroot, HSCC `Development Manager

“We are the only shelter in the state that has a humane investigator on staff to help investigate cruelty cases,” deGroot said. All 50 states have animal cruelty laws, but specific regulations and penalties vary from state to state. HSCC also operates a low-cost spay and neuter clinic and practices the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) policy

All of your

oretta’s LORETTA’S ITALIAN FAMILY STYLE TAKEOUT

for feral cats. This strategy humanely controls the population of feral or free-roaming cats with the goal of stabilizing and ultimately decreasing the feral cat population. “Another program we have is transport for dogs from the south,” deGroot explained. “We have a partnership with some shelters down there [for pets] who would be euthanized, because we are a no-kill shelter.” HSCC also offers a summer camp for children called Camp Paw Paw, where children learn about proper pet care, animal safety, and animalrelated careers. HSCC sponsors similar adult workshops through “Best Friends University,” a series of free seminars on topics such as pet first aid, animal cruelty laws, and HSCC’s humane investigations. Community members can become involved with HSCC’s work through pet adoption, participation in education and outreach training programs, volunteering and most importantly, donation. As a nonprofit, HSCC “is not funded with federal or state funding, so donating is a huge way that people can help,” deGroot said. With the upcoming “Purrrses for Paws” event, HSCC hopes to promote its mission of compassionate handling of animals and to educate Chittenden County residents about their options for animal care. “We’re really there for anyone who needs to relinquish an animal. We are always there for people as well as animals,” deGroot said.

favorites are back!

“If I can make it, I will cook it for you!” says Chef Loretta DeVito

Loretta is now cooking to order for true Italian Family Style Takeout. Call 598-9752 with 24 hour notice then pick up your meal at 5 South Street, Essex Jct. - just around the corner from her old location From salad to cannoli, all your old favorites are here. Special requests invited too. Check Facebook for our weekly specials. From a romantic meal for two to an Italian feast for your entire wedding, I’d love to cook for you!

Student Exhibition. Students of the Fine Arts department of Mount Mansfield Union High School will exhibit their favorite pieces at the Emile A Gruppe Gallery from through Feb. 21. Unique art in drawing, painting, advanced placement studio art, fine metal, pottery, and both digital and darkroom photography are represented. Emile A Gruppe Gallery, Jericho. Gallery hours: Thursday-Sunday, 10:00 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment. Information: 899-3211 or http://www. emilegruppeallery.com/ Najawa: A Story of Palestine. A 45-foot “street comic” tells the story of a Palestinian woman’s life, created by local artist Michelle Sayles in collaboration with artist and educator Jen Berger and Vermonters for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel. On display through March 1. Fletcher Free Library Mezzanine Balcony, Burlington. Gallery open during normal library hours. Information: http://www.fletcherfree.org/programming.html Blue Ribbons and Burlesque: The Country-Fair Photography of Charles Fish. The black and white photographs of Charles Fish capture nature and nurture, theatrical illusion, the pursuit of excellence, and even the guilty pleasures of fair food. This remarkable exhibit will be included with the admission fee to the museum until July 2016. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: http://vermonthistory.org/visit/vermont-historymuseum

Authentic, Fresh Greek & Mediterranean Food

GYROS • PANINI • SALADS FALAFEL • BAKLAVA BOSNIAN GRILLED SPECIALITIES ESPRESSO DRINKS • BEER & WINE 17 Park St., Essex Jct. (near 5 corners)

878-9333

DINE IN OR TAKE OUT Tu-Th 11-8 • F & S 11-9 • Closed Sun & Mon Full Menu www.cafemediterano.com

No need to travel to Montreal, Boston or New York when we're just minutes away!

Vermont

Philharmonic 57th season

Central Vermont’s Community Orchestra & Chorus • Resident Orchestra of the Barre Opera House • www.vermontphilharmonic.org

Winter Concert

598-9752 • 5 South Street, Essex Junction

Know a LocaL artist? Let us know!

Lou Kosma, Conductor Equine & Pet Supplies!

Opening Sept 8th

Hrs: Tues-Sat 10-6pm

call 878-5282

news@essexreporter.com

Zignature, Eagle, California Natural, Evo, Triumph 4 Kellogg Rd #1, Essex Jct, VT 802-876-4444 * Tonystack.com Winter hours: Tues-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-4 4 Kellogg Rd., Essex Jct. 802-876-4444 TonysTack.com

Alan Chiang, Piano

Winner of the 2015 Borowicz Memorial Scholarship

Featuring pieces by Brahms, Chausson, and Ralph Vaughan Williams

Katherine Winterstein, Violin

Saturday, February 13 7:30 pm Elley-Long Music Center, Colchester

Adults $15

•

Sunday, February 14 2:00 pm

Seniors $12

Barre Opera House

•

Students $5

Concert tickets will be available at the door or in advance online at: www.vermontphilharmonic.org

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

Essex Area Religious Directory

C ALEnDAR 4 Thursday M.A.G.I.C.: Masculinity and Gender Identity Conversation. Participants of any

and all gender identities gather for a casual discussion on a wide variety of topics ranging from inequality to language, media and food. Wellness Co-op, Burlington, 2-3 p.m. Free. Information: 370-5369.

Community Soup and Bread Supper. The

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH- (Fundamentalindependent.) 61 Main St., Essex Junction, 878-8341. Pastor James Gangwer. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday evening worship 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evening youth groups; Awana, Pro-Teens and Prayer meeting 7 p.m.

Covenant Community Church will be hosting its monthly soup and bread supper. Eat in or take-out options available. Stay to eat with family and friends or pick up to take home. There will be a variety of soups, breads and a sweet dessert. Covenant Community Church, Essex/Jericho line, 4:30-7 p.m. Donations accepted. Contact Steve: 879-4313.

Harry Potter Book Night: A Night of Spells. On Harry Potter Book Night: A

Night of Spells, Phoenix Bookstore will be sharing the wonder of J.K. Rowling’s unforgettable stories andintroducing the next generation of readers to the unparalleled magic of Harry Potter. Young wizards, witches and Muggles will be treated to an evening of games, activities, readings and quizzes. The store will be transformed into the world of Harry Potter and specials inspired by some of the scrumptious wizard foods in the books will be served. Phoenix Bookstore, Essex, 6 p.m. Free. Information: www.phoenixbooks.biz or 872-7111.

CHRIST MEMORIAL CHURCH- Route 2A, Williston, just north of Industrial Ave. Wes Pastor, Senior Minister, 8787107, Proclaiming Christ and Him crucified Sundays at 9:30 a.m. www.cmcvermont.org. DAYBREAK COMMUNITY CHURCH - 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester VT. 05446 802-338-9118 www.daybreakvermont.org or brentdaybreak@gmail. com Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m. Lead Pastor, Brent Devenney. ESSEX ALLIANCE CHURCH - 37 Old Stage Road in Essex Junction. Sunday Services: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Phone: 878-8213. www.essexalliance.org. ESSEX CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Please join us for worship that combines the best of traditional and contemporary music and spirituality. We are a safe and welcoming space for all people to celebrate, worship, ask questions, and put down spiritual roots. Adult Bible Study at 8:30 a.m. Service at 10:00 a.m. with Sunday School and childcare provided. We offer a variety of small groups for prayer, Bible study, hands-on ministry, and studying contemporary faith issues. 119 Center Rd (Route 15) Essex Center. Rev. Mitchell Hay, pastor. 878-8304. FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUNCTION, UCC, an Open and Affirming Congregation, embracing diversity and affirming the dignity and worth of every person, because we are all created by a loving God. 1 Church Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Telephone (802) 878-5745; Website: www.fccej.org ; Email: welcome@fccej.org Senior Pastor, Rev. Mark Mendes. Associate Pastor, Rev. Ryan Gackenheimer. Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:15 a.m. Communion: first Sunday of every month. Sunday School meets weekly at 10:15 a.m. Jr. High Youth Group, Sundays 11:30 -1 p.m. Sr. High Youth Group, Sundays 5 - 7 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Youth Group, 1st Sunday of the month 11:30 - 1 p.m. Heavenly Food Pantry – fourth Thursday of the month, 2 6 p.m., except for Nov & Dec when it is the third Thursday. Essex Eats Out Community Dinner – 1st Friday of the month, 5:30 - 7 p.m. Music includes Senior Choir, Praise Band, Junior Choir, Cherub Choir, Handbell Choir, Men’s Acapella and Ladies’ Acapella groups. GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - 130 Maple Street, Essex Junction. 878-8071. 1 mile south of the Five Corners on Maple Street / VT. Route 117. Worship Sundays at 9:30 a.m. with concurrent Church School Pre-K to High School. Handicapped-accessible facility. Adult Study Group Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Adult Choir / Praise Band / Women’s Fellowship / Missionally active. Korean U.M.C. Worship Sundays at 12:30 p.m. Come explore what God might be offering you! HOLY FAMILY - ST. LAWRENCE PARISH - Essex Junction, - Mass Schedule, Saturday Vigil: 4:00pm - St. Lawrence, Sunday Morning: 8:00am - St. Lawrence, 11:00am - Holy Family, 7:30pm - Holy Family. For more information visit our web page http://www.hfslvt.org. LIVING HOPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH - 1037 South Brownell Road, Williston ,VT 05495. A Living Hope.... a Loving God. 862-2108 | Livinghope@aol.com | www. livinghopevt.org 9:00 a.m. Children and Adult Sunday School. 10:00 a.m. Worship and Service. MT. MANSFIELD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP - Visit www.mmuuf.org. Services are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from September through June. 195 Vermont Route 15, Jericho (the red barn across from Packard Road). 899-2558. ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH - 4 St. James Place (off Rt. 2A at the Fairgrounds Gate F) 802-878-4014 www. stjamesvt.org The Rev. Ken Hitch v office@stjamesvt. org 8:15am Holy Eucharist Rite II (no music) 10:30am Holy Eucharist Rite II (with music) 9:20am Adult Ed: Bible Study 10:15 am Godly Play. ST. PIUS X CHURCH - 20 Jericho Road, Essex, 878-5997 - Administrator: Rev. Charles Ranges. Masses: Saturday 4:30 pm and Sunday 9:30 am. Confessions: Saturday 3:30pm - 4:00 pm or please call 878-5331 for an appointment. ST. THOMAS CATHOLIC CHURCH - 6 Green St., Underhill Center. Father Charles R. Danielson, Parish Priest. Weekend Masses: Saturday-4:30 p.m., Sunday-8:30. Daily Masses: Check with www.stthomasvt. com or call 899-4632.

Friday

Rummage Sale. Take what you need and

pay what you can. Sale continues Feb. 6. Grace United Methodist Church, Essex Junction, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: 8788071

Elder Education Enrichment Lecture. The

Elder Education Enrichment group will be offering the ﬁrst installment of their spring lecture series with National Weather Service Meteorologist, Scott Whittier. WhittIer will present a lecture entitled, “Winter Weather in Vermont: Forecasting and Climatology.” Parking and handicap access available. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2 p.m. $5 at the door. Information: 864-3516.

PURRRSES FOR PAWS. Join us for an evening of new and like-new purses, hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails. The silent auction will begin at 6 p.m., and the live auction will begin at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $25 each and include parking. Information: www.chittendenhumane.org/News-and-Events

Tuesday

Home Buying Workshop. You are invited

to join local insurance, mortgage, real estate, and legal professionals for a one hour workshop and question and answer on the home buying process, including: How to prepare to apply for a mortgage loan; How to ﬁnd and make an offer on the right property for you; and more. Whether you are a ﬁrst-time homebuyer, or have simply been out of the real estate market for some time, this workshop is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the current home buying process. Seating is limited. Maple Street Park, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. RSVP: buyerinfovt@gmail.com

Movies at Main Street Landing: “In A LoneLy Place.” The Movies at Main

Street Landing series presents the Nicholas Ray-directed, 1950 ﬁlm noir classic, “In A Lonely Place,” starring screen legends Humphrey Bogart, Gloria Grahame and Frank Lovejoy. Main Street Landing Film House, Burlington, 7 p.m. Donations beneﬁt a local charity. Contact: 5403018 or www.mainstreetlanding.com/ movies.

Wednesday

Embroidery. Join the Green Mountain Chapter

Saturday

Wafﬂe breakfast. The Hinesburg Nursery

School will host its 18th Annual Waffle Breakfast and Silent Auction. This year’s event will also feature kids activities, face-painting and horse-drawn sleigh rides weather permitting. Proceeds benefit Hinesburg Nursery School, a nonprofit parent cooperative preschool. Breakfast costs $6 for adults and $4 for children ages 2-12. Tots under 24 months eat for free. Hinesburg Community School Cafeteria, Hinesburg, 8-11 a.m. Information: www.hinesburgnurseryschool.org.

French Canadian Supper. Our Lady of the

Holy Rosary Church will be hosting their French Canadian supper. The menu will include pea soup, meat pie, mashed potatoes, dessert, beverages, etc. Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church Hall, Richmond, 5 p.m. $10 suggested donation to beneﬁt the charities of Rosary Council of the Knights of Columbus 4684. Information: 777-5302 (evenings) or 434-2521(daytime).

Sunday

Sunday Coffee Mix and Mingle. Members

of the LGBTQA community gather to bond over books, coffee, art and more at this casual hangout. Barnes and Noble Bookstore, South Burlington, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Information: 860-7812.

Westford Music Series. Two talented young

performers, Katie McNally and Neil Perlman, will be the featured artistS for the February Westford Music Series in collaboration with Young Vermont Traditions. UCW White Church, Westford, 4-5 p.m. Free will donation. Contact Marge: 879-4028.

Monday

Shape and share life stories. Prompts trig-

ger real-life experience stories, which are crafted into engaging narrative and shared with the group. Free and open to all adults. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Free. Contact: 878-4918.

Trivia Night. Trivia buffs gather for a meeting

of the minds. Hotel Vermont lobby, Burlington, 7-9 p.m. Free. Contact: 651-5012.

of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. All abilities welcome. We will be having a stitch in so bring something to stitch. First meeting is complimentary. Bring a bag lunch. Car-pooling is available from many areas. Living Room/Dinning Room at The Pines, 5 Aspen Drive, South Burlington at 9:30 a.m. Contact: 372-4255 or gmc. vt.ega@gmail.com.

How Sweet It Is Silent Auction. The Lake

Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its ﬁrst annual How Sweet It Is Silent Auction. This new and exciting networking event will include an auction of exceptional items as well as appetizers and sweet treats prepared by award winning culinary experts. Half of the event ticket price will be donated to Dragonheart Vermont. In addition, a portion of the funds raised will support the Paul Gallagher Entrepreneurial Scholarship Fund. The Essex Resort and Spa, Essex, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Member Entry Price: $12 Non-Member Entry Price: $20. Information: http://www.vermont.org/events/

Thursday

FEB. 11

month, Wednesday evenings. Essex Alliance Church, Essex. Contact Deb: 2382291.

Essex Eats Out Community Meals. Essex

Eats Out seeks to build community connections by providing healthy, free meals in a warm, safe and inclusive atmosphere. Meals will be served: ﬁrst Friday at First Congregational Church; second Friday at Holy Family/St. Lawrence Parish Center; third Friday at St. James Church; fourth Friday at Essex United Methodist Church; and ﬁfth Friday when applicable at St. Pius X Church. 5:30-7 p.m. each week. Transportation is available. Call Dawn Thursday by 9 a.m. to schedule Friday transit: 878-7622. Information: essexeatsout@gmail.com or www.essexeatsout. org.

Champlain Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group. Mary L. Guyette RN, MS, ACNSBC will answer questions about prostate cancer surgical procedures. Plus, general discussion and sharing among survivors and those beginning or rejoining the battle. Second Tuesday of each month. Hope Lodge, 237 East Ave, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Contact: 274-4990.

Interstitial Cystitis Support Group. Intersti-

tial cystitis (IC) is recurring pelvic pain, pressure or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region, and urinary frequency/ urgency. This is often misdiagnosed and mistreated as a chronic bladder infection. If you have been diagnosed or have these symptoms, you are not alone. We are building a Vermont-based support group and welcome you to email bladderpainvt@gmail.com or call (802) 899-4151 for more information.

Creative Tuesdays. Artists exercise their

imaginations with recycled crafts. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 3:15-5 p.m. Contact: 865-7216.

Burlington Writers Workshop. A free writing

workshop for all Vermonters. Meets every Wednesday in downtown Burlington. Free and open to the public. Participants must register at meetup.com. More info: www. burlingtonwritersworkshop.com.

Cell Phones For Soldiers. Local residents

can support these collection drives by donating their old cell phones at A. W. Rich Funeral Home, 57 Main St., Essex Junction, or at the American Legion, 3650 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester. Collections accepted 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact: 849-6261.

Champlain Echoes. A women’s four-part

harmony chorus group seeks additional women to sing in their holiday performances. Meetings are Monday nights. The Pines, Aspen Drive, South Burlington, 6:30 p.m. Contact: 655-2174.

Community Wellness Day. Practitioners offer

Shaving Cream Art. Create your own designs using shaving cream and paint. Kindergarten and up. Dorothy Alling Memorial Library, Williston, 3 pm. Free. Information: 878-4918 or www.williston.lib.vt.us

Mandarin Chinese Class. The Agape Com-

munity Church invites language enthusiasts to practice the Chinese dialect spoken throughout northern and southwestern China. Agape Community Church, South Burlington, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Information: http://www.burlingtonagape.org/

Ongoing Children’s Breakfast. First and Third Saturday

of each month. `The Grace United Methodist Church will be offering a free breakfast for children ages K-5, though all children are welcomed. Crafts, Songs, Bible Stories, and Games. No registration needed, parents can stay and have coffee. Grace United Methodist Church, Essex Junction, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Information: 878-8071 or ejgraceumcsudayschool@gmail.com.

Essex Art League Meetings. Meetings happen on the ﬁrst Thursday of the month. The meeting agenda includes a business and social time, and features a guest artist presentation. Essex Junction Congregational Church, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m. Information: www.essexartleague.com.

Craft Connection. Come to the Essex Alliance Church community as women gather for a time of crafts and fellowship. Twice a

Reiki, Shiatsu, aromatherapy, acupressure, energy work and more to those looking to experience alternative healing. 2 Wolves Holistic Center in Vergennes, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. most Fridays. Sliding-scale donations; preregister the Tuesday prior. Contact: 2wolvescenter@gmail.com or 870-0361.

English As A Second Language Classes. Improve your English conversation skills and meet new people. Wednesdays. Administrative Conference Room: intermediate/advanced. Pickering Room, 2nd Floor: beginners. Fletcher Free Library, Burlington, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Contact: 865-7211.

Family Support Group. Outright Vermont

holds support group meetings for family members of youth going through the process of coming out. One Sunday evening and one Wednesday morning each month at Outright Vermont. Contact: 865-9677.

Italian Conversation Group. Open to all

interested in learning/hearing the Italian language. Room 101, St. Edmunds Hall, St. Michael’s College, Colchester. Every second and fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-9 p.m. Contact: 654-2536.

Toy Library Playgroup. Fridays. Ages birth through 5 years. Memorial Hall, Essex, 9:30-11 a.m. Contact Essex Parks and Rec: 878-1342.

VCAM Access Orientation. Free. Vermont

Community Access Media, 208 Flynn Ave. 2-G, Burlington. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact: 651-9692 or www.vermontcam.org.

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

C ALEnDAR Colchester-Milton Rotary meeting. Thursdays. Serving the communities of Colchester, Milton and the Champlain Islands. Hampton Inn, Colchester, 12 p.m.

Essex Rotary Meeting. Essex Rotary Meetings are held on Wednesdays at 12:10 p.m. at The Essex. Serving the communities of Essex, Essex Junction, Jericho and Underhill.

Duplicate Bridge. Wednesdays. Essex Junction Senior Center, Essex, 1 p.m. Information: 876-5087.

Celebrate Recovery. Thursdays. This conﬁdential 12-step recovery program puts faith in Jesus Christ at the heart of healing. We offer multiple support groups for both men and women, such as chemical dependency, co-dependency, sexual addiction and pornography, food issues and overcoming abuse. All those 18 and older are welcome. Sorry, no childcare. Essex Alliance Church, Essex. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., sessions begin at 7 p.m. Information: recovery@essexalliance.org or 310-9062.

Mah Jongg. Join other Mah Jongg enthusiasts ages 50 and over at the Essex Junction Senior Center at 10 a.m. on Mondays and Fridays. New players are always welcome. Free to members of EJSC, others pay $1 per day. Membership at EJSC is open to anyone 50 years of age and older and is $12 per year. Contact: 8765087 or Lpioli@essex.org.

Movie Matinees. Colchester Parks and Recre-

ation offers movie matinees on the second and fourth Fridays of each month. Popcorn and coffee will be provided. Movies begin at 1 p.m. Free. 781 Blakely Road, Colchester. Information: 264-5640.

Senior Strength. HammerFit Gym in Essex of-

fers a 50-minute guided exercise class for anyone over the age of 50. The session begins with a warm up, stretching exercises, then strength training using Hammer Strength equipment with guidance. The class ends with a relaxing stretch and cool down, and participants are welcome to use the cardio machines before or after if they wish. HammerFit Gym, Essex, Mondays and Thursdays 9:30 a.m. $5. Information: 878-0444.

Essex Community Justice Center’s Citizen Advisory Board Meetings. Meetings

take place on the second Wednesday of all even-numbered months. The Community Justice Center provides restorative responses to crime and conﬂict in the greater Essex area. The Citizens Advisory Board advises the Community Justice Center on policy, direction and programming in an ongoing capacity. Community Justice Center, Essex Junction, 5:30 p.m. Contact Kate: 662-0001 or at kate@essexcjc.org.

Bagpipe and Drum Lessons. The St.

Andrew’s Pipeband of Vermont offers instruction for bagpiping and drumming as an encouragement and incentive for attracting new members. The instruc-

tional program is designed to integrate and transition a piper or drummer into the “parade” band at a level of basic competency. St. James Episcopal Church, Essex Junction, Wednesday evenings. Free. Contact Beth: 343-4738. nights with our pottery instructors learning the basics of wheel working. Try the wheel and have some fun with other beginner potters. Through demonstrations and individual instruction, students will learn the basics of preparing and centering the clay and making cups, mugs and bowls. Price includes one fired and glazed piece per participant. Additional fired and glazed pieces are $5 each. No registration necessary but space is limited. First come, first served. BCA Print and Wheel Studio, Burlington, Fridays 8-10 p.m. $12. Contact: 865-7166. Drop-In Life Drawing Class. This drop-in life drawing class is open to all levels and facilitated by local painter Glynnis Fawkes. Spend the evening with other artists drawing one of our experienced models. Bring drawing materials and paper. No registration necessary. Ages 16 and up. BCA Center, Burlington, Mondays 6:308:30 p.m. $8. Contact: 865-7166.

To view more ongoing events go to: www.EssexReporter.com/calendar

THURSDAY, FEB. 11

AARP Free Tax Prep Help. For taxpayers with low and middle incomes, especially those age 60 and older, Tak and Dorothy Ng, AARP foundation certified tax preparers, will offer 45-minute appointments. Call 878-6955 or drop by the library’s Circ. Desk to schedule an appointment. Available until April 7. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:15am, 10am, 10:45am and 11:30 a.m.

AARP Free Tax Prep Help. For taxpayers and low and middle incomes, especially those age 60 and older, Tak and Dorothy Ng, AARP foundation certified tax preparers, will offer 45 minute appointments. Call 878-6955 or drop by the library’s Circ. Desk to schedule an appointment. Available until April 7. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:15 a.m., 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 5

Lego Fun. Participate in fun and friendly building with LEGO. For kids entering K and up. (Kids under 5 are welcome to participate with parental supervision). Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4:30 p.m.

TAB: Super Bowl Game Day. Come with your favorite game/activity to share with other TAB members. Warm up with some hot chocolate, nachos and cheese. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m. Magic: The Gathering. Whether you know the game or are curious to find out more, come have tons of gaming fun. Grades 6 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 8 Wii Games with Mike. Come join Mike after school to play Wii games. We have Sports Resort, MarioKart, LEGO Star Wars and LEGO Harry Potter. For kids in Grades 4-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Oscar Nominee Movie Screening. Free popcorn and drinks. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8:21 p.m. Must Read Mondays: “The Last American Man” by Elizabeth Gilbert. In this rousing examination of contemporary American male identity, acclaimed author and journalist Elizabeth Gilbert explores the fascinating true story of Eustace Conway. In 1977, at the age of seventeen, Conway left his family’s comfortable suburban home to move to the Appalachian Mountains. For more than two decades he has lived there, making fire with sticks, wearing skins from animals he has trapped, and trying to convince Americans to give up their materialistic lifestyles and return with him back to nature. Pick up a copy of the book at the main desk. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 10 Pathfinder Society. This fantasy role-playing game is similar to Dungeons and Dragons. For ages 16 and up. Open to Newcomers. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7-11 p.m.

ONGOING Read to Daisy and Archie, Therapy Dogs. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Daisy and Archie love to listen to kids read. They are certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Daisy’s owner is Maddie Nash, retired school counselor. For all ages. Archie’s owner is Christine Packard, Chair of Brownell Library Trustees. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:304:30 p.m.

Tell Michael! calendar@essexreporter.com

STREAM of Lights Parade Public Notice What: STREAM of Lights Lantern Parade Who: Chittenden Central Supervisory Union and Essex Town School District; all community members from Essex Junction, Essex Town and Westford are invited When: Friday, February 12 – Parade starts at 5:30 p.m. Where: Starts at Essex High School on Educational Drive, will then make a loop around Central Street, North Street and Grove Street Notes The following roads will be closed at the given times: *Educational Drive - 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. *Central Street, North Street and Grove Street - 5:15 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

February estate planning seminars

Thursday, February 11th Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: Unsworth Law PLC 26 Railroad Avenue, Essex Jct. Thursday, February 18th Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Location: Holiday Inn 1068 Williston Rd, Burlington

Tuesday, February 23rd Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Location: Unsworth Law PLC 26 Railroad Avenue, Essex Jct. To reserve your seat, call 879-7133 or register online at unsworthlaw.net

26 Railroad Ave. / Essex Jct., VT (802) 879-7133 / unsworthlaw.net

Story Time for 3-5 Year Olds. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Picture books, songs, rhymes, puppets, flannel stories, and early math activities for preschoolers. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m. Tech Help with Clif. Offering one on one technology help. Bring in your new electronic devices and Clif will sit with you to help you learn more about them. Please call to make an appointment. Brownell Library, Mondays, Feb. 1 and Wednesday, Feb. 3, 12-1 p.m. Drop-in Story Time. Mondays. Reading, rhyming and crafts each week. All ages welcome. No registration required. Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m. Lego Club. Mondays. We have thousands of Legos for you to build awesome creations. Essex Free Library, 3:30-5 p.m. Drop-in Knitting Group. Connect with other knitters and tackle new knitting projects. Both beginner and advanced knitters are welcome. Essex Free Library, Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Creative Writing Club. First Wednesday of each month, for ages 9 and older. Let your imagination soar as you write your own stories and poems using prompts, games and other writing exercises. Essex Free Library, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Drop-in Story Time for Kids of All Ages. Twice a month on Fridays. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers are welcome to come listen to picture book stories and have fun with finger plays and action rhymes. No registration required. Brownell Library, 10-10:45 a.m.

Local Libraries BROWNELL 6 Lincoln Street LIBRARY Essex Junction 878-6956

Special event coming up?

Story Time for Babies and Toddlers. Tuesdays. Picture books, songs, rhymes and puppets for babies and toddlers with an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:10-9:30 a.m.

Musical Story Time. Fridays. Rock out and read with books, songs and instruments. All ages. Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m.

Events at your

Tell us!

news@essexreporter.com

Drop-In Pottery Wheel Class. Spend Friday

THURSDAY, FEB. 4

Songs and Stories with Matthew. Matthew Witten performs songs about our world and tells adventurous tales. For all ages. Funded by the Friends of Brownell Library. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m.

Something to Celebrate?

ESSEX FREE 2 Jericho Road LIBRARY Essex 879-0313 essexfreelibrary@essex.org.

AFFORDABLE AND CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS THAT FIT YOUR STYLE AND BUDGET! “Expert Fit” Measuring & Installation Shutters • Draperies • Wood Blinds • Cellular Shades • Roller Shades • Vertical Blinds • Valances • Woven Wood • Motorization and more! FREE Personal Consultation and NO CHARGE for Installation! Essex Appreciation Sale 35% off Thru February

www.budgetblinds.com (802) 651-9366 or Locally owned 1-888-88-BUDGET & operated

Pet of the Week China

13 year old Spayed female Reason Here: My owner could no longer care for me SUMMARY: Our sweet China doll is looking for a golden home for her golden years. This sweet senior is a lover of food, squishy beds, and naps. China would love to go for strolls outside and offer her company to a new family. If you’re looking for a low-key canine companion, China may be your girl!

My Thoughts On: Cats: I have lived with cats and did well with them. Dogs: I have lived with dogs and did well with them.

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

F OOD How to sneak

fruits & vegetables into any recipe

ruits and vegetables are the building blocks of a healthy diet. But many people do not eat the recommended number of servings of produce.That’s especially true among growing children, who can benefit greatly from the vitamins and nutrients fruits and vegetables provide. According to the latest data from the NPD Group, a market research firm, Americans eat a little more than half a cup of fruit and a cup of vegetables per day. This is less than half of what the government recommends. The data is similar in Canada, where researchers at Concordia University found that Canadian adults ages 30 to 60, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, aren’t consuming the daily recommended levels of fruits and vegetables. Anyone who eats roughly 2,000 calories per day should strive to consume between two to three cups of vegetables and two cups of fruit per day. Produce helps to fight disease because it contains healthy antioxidants, fiber, minerals and vitamins. Eating four cups per day may seem difficult, but there are many ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables into everyday recipes. • Substitute pureed fruit, like figs, pears and apples, for oil in recipes for cakes and cookies. This will ensure the baked goods are moist but with a lot less fat.

• Add fresh berries or raisins to breakfast cereals and oatmeal. • Add cauliflower or squash to boiled potatoes before mashing them to increase the nutritional punch and flavor of mashed potatoes. • Blend fruits and vegetables to create smoothies for breakfast or lunch on the go. • Bake hearty muffins or breads with sweet potato or carrots in the batter. • Mix stewed tomatoes in with your broth soup base to make a vegetable or chicken soup even more nutritious. PhoTo | METRo CREATiVE

• Opt for vegetables piled high atop a slice of pizza in lieu of meats or extra cheese. • Divide your dinner plate into quadrants, filling half of the plate with vegetables, one quarter with meat and the remainder with a whole grain. • Replace lettuce on a sandwich or burger with a fresh leaf of spinach. While you’re dressing your sandwich, add a slice of tomato, too. • Substitute fresh vegetables and fruit slices for chips when serving dips and salsas. Kale chips are growing in popularity. • Give children a cup of sliced grapes with their lunches as a refreshing and healthy snack.

Super Bowl Sunday is finally here...

• Shred vegetables into a hearty “slaw” and top it with a vinaigrette or a typical mayonnaise-based dressing.

• Make a vegetable roll-up, filling pizza dough with broccoli or spinach and shredded cheese.

• Blend other vegetables into your pasta sauce.

• Mix together an avocado, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1/4 cup honey to create a healthy alternative to chocolate pudding.

• Use vegetables instead of pasta in traditional dishes. Layer eggplant slices to make a lasagna. Or use a spiral slicer to slice zucchini or carrots when making homemade noodles. • Fruit salad is often a refreshing snack or dessert. Having fruit already diced in a large bowl makes it more convenient to eat and possibly more enticing to children.

• Use pureed vegetables to thicken cheese sauce for macaroni and cheese recipes. • Shred vegetables and add them to beaten eggs for omelets or scrambles. — MetroCreative

Vermont winter farmers’ markets

Vermont is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, and it boasts more farmers’ markets per capita than any other state in the country. Fresh produce, crafts, baked goods, meats, and specialty foods are available nearly yearround. If you’re visiting Vermont between November and April, check out these winter farmers’ markets. Find more exciting Vermont events at www.VermontVacation.com

BURLINGTON FARMERS’ MARKET

Through April 2 Memorial Auditorium, Corner of Main St and S. Union, Burlington, VT Select Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

CAPITAL CITY FARMERS’ MARKET Gather the family – it’s time to cheer. Root for your team – we hope they win. We have your supplies – so stop on in! 21A Essex Way, Essex Jct. 802-878-0274 www.Hannafords.com

“Mom ,s smile the first day at The Arbors at Shelburne spoke volumes.” -Alan Smith

Feb. 6 & 20 | March 5 & 19 | April 2 & 16 Montpelier High School, Montpelier, VT Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

MIDDLEBURY FARMERS’ MARKET

March 5-April 30 Mary Hogan Elementary School | 201 Mary Hogan Drive, Middlebury, VT Every Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

NORTHFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET Through April 3 Plumley Armory, Norwich University, Northfield, VT 1st Sunday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

NORWICH FARMERS’ MARKET Feb. 13 & 27 | March 19 & 26 | April 9 & 23 Tracy Hall, 300 Main St. Norwich, Norwich, VT Select Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

PhoTo CoNTRiBuTED

SPECIAL EVENT COMING UP? TELL MICHAEL! calendar@essexreporter.com

For over 20 years, The Arbors at Shelburne has provided short and long-term care for thousands

authentic mexican cuisine

What’s Cooking in your Kitchen?

of seniors and families struggling with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Our full-service memory care community offers safe, familiar surroundings, well-appointed common areas designed for convenience and socialization, choice of private and semi-private studios and just the right amount of assistance they need. Count on the #1 choice for memory care in the Champlain Valley, The Arbors at Shelburne. Schedule a tour today! 687 H arbor r oad , S Helburne , VT, 05482 | a rborS a T S Helburne . com | 802-448-2533

$2 off any lunch entree WITH THIS COUPON GOOD THROUGH 2/11/16 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH & DINNER 4 Park Street • Essex • 802.662.4334 169 Church St. • Burlington 802.540.3095 • www.ElGatoCantina.com

SUBMIT YOUR RECIPE TO www.EssexReporter.com/ community-kitchen

Sports

B Section The Essex Reporter February 4, 2016

Gymnastics team remains unbeaten

ALSO IN THIS SECTION: • Legal Notices

• Schools

• Classifieds

• Brides & Grooms Guide

SPORTS SHORTS Joe Gonillo

ook out. It’s February! Ground hogs, birthdays for Lincoln and Washington, snow and the continuation of winter no matter what the temperature is, playoffs inching closer, a state championship or two decided and vacation only two weeks away. ACTs hit Saturday and Super Bowl on Sunday.

By Colin Flanders The Essex Reporter The gymnastics team kept its undefeated season alive with a 133.55-98.2 victory over Milton on Jan. 27. The team had three athletes compete in the all-round competition: Abbie Gehsmann, who finished with a score of 34.1, followed by Allie Green with 34.0 and Eve Contois with 29.5. The evening had an added significance as the team’s lone senior, Abbie Evans, was honored prior to the event. “It’s been a privilege to coach Abbie for all four years of her high school career. I have seen a tremendous amount of growth in many areas but mostly in defining herself to be a great teammate and also leader. She puts her whole heart into our program and it has been a huge factor in our success as a team,” said head coach Ashley Godin. She also highlighted the team’s growth throughout the season, and said she’s seen

Indoor track The track team was in Norwich for the indoor state championships Saturday. The girls finished second with 136 points to St. Johnsbury, while the boys placed third with 69 points, trailing South Burlington and St. Johnsbury. Individual Hornet state champions include Amanda Sinkewicz – shot put 37’ 8” (school record); Sade Hankey, high jump 5’; Katie James, 600m 1:39.95 (breaking her own school record); Jenna Puleo, long jump 17’ 1.75” — yet another school record; and Breyer Sinor weight throw 52’ 2.” James also ran second in the 1000m and finished second in the mile relay with Arianna Moffett, Kathryn Moran and Morgan Whitney to cap off a tough, tiring meet. Hankey jumped fourth in the triple jump and was fifth the 55m. Sinkewicz, doubling up as a hockey star and state champion, also cleared 4’ 6” in the high jump for sixth.

notable progression in both strength and skill development. “We have always been a team with depth and this year we are truly seeing the real measure of depth we have, as all 12 athletes on the team are stepping up and fulfilling their potential,” Godin said. The Hornets have just under a week before their final meet, traveling to South Burlington for a 7 p.m. start on Wednesday. Ten days later, Essex will look to extend its historic win-streak — taking home the state title for the past decade — as it hosts the state championships on Feb. 20.

Top: Essex sophomore Allie Green leaps backward during her floor routine at Essex High School on Jan. 27. Abbey Gleason skies during the vault event on Jan. 27 at Essex High School. The Hornets defeated Milton 133.55-98.2. Photos | Kyle St. Peter

Boys’ basketball falls to Spaulding

The boys’ basketball team struggled down the stretch Monday evening, dropping a home contest against Spaulding 66-50. Essex’s Eli Baez led the way with 19, while Matt Allen had 21 for Spaulding. Although the Hornets were up 4 after three quarters, Spaulding owned the final set, outscoring the Hornets 26-10 to capture the victory. Essex currently sits 12th in the VPA rankings with just three games left on its schedule. They’ll travel to North Country on Thursday before hosting Colchester next Tuesday evening.

The story of the meet was Puleo, a sophomore, who was participating in her first season of high school TF and in her first state meet. She sprinted to second in the 55m dash (7.66) — 0.02 away from first place. The results ranks second all-time in the Hornet track and field record book, missing first by 0.06. She capped her day – or night actually – with a second place in the triple jump with her fourth personal record of the meet, 34’ 4”, putting her second all-time there as well. Nice day and a great job! To say she is a rising star in the sport, has a bright future, and can compete in college in simply a gross understatement of her talent and abilities in the sport! Points came from all areas and all classes. Other Essex finishers include: Second– Chike Asanya 55m (6.77 – fourth all-time) – the inside scoop on this race saw Ian Clough from St. J winning in 7.691 while Asanya’s time was 7.695 (that’s four thousandths of a second behind making it the closest race of the day. People wonder why we use Pavel Dvorak and 802timing to electronically time our meets). Nate Rodrigue-Hotchkiss, 600m; Martin Thomas, 1600m; Jackson Baker, high jump; Hollie Parks, weight throw;

Right: Essex senior Scott Lyon goes to the basket in the first quarter of Monday night’s game. Bottom: Essex senior Eli Baez taps in a rebound during Monday night’s game against Spaulding. Photos | Kyle St. Peter

Third – Giulia Eddy, 1000m. Fourth – Justin Barnes, 55m; Madison Stephenson, 55m high hurdle; Tess Hastings LJ; Molly Noel Fifth – Angus Hutcheon, 1000m; Abby Trombley, 2-mile; Sixth – Rodrigue-Hotchkiss, 300m; Justin, Poulin 1000m; Sam Velasquez , 55m high hurdles; Asanya, high jump; Omkar Borse, pole vault; Grace Murphy 2-mile; Lauren Echelberger, pole vault; Stephenson, long jump.

Sports schedules Alpine skiing

Girls’ basketball

2/8 EHS vs. Slalom (@ Cochran’s) – 3 p.m.

2/5 EHS vs. Burlington – 7:30 p.m. 2/8 EHS vs. Spaulding – 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ basketball

Bowling

2/4 EHS @ North Country – 6:30 p.m.

2/6 EHS @ Enosburg – 11 a.m.

2/9 EHS vs. Colchester – 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ hockey 2/5 EHS vs. Northfield – 7:45 p.m. 2/10 EHS vs. Spaulding – 6:15 p.m.

Cheerleading 2/6 EHS @ South Burlington

Gymnastics 2/10 EHS @ South Burlington – 7 p.m.

Nordic skiing 2/10 EHS @ Colchester – 3:30 p.m.

Wrestling 2/6 EHS vs. Jason Lowell Memorial (@ Mt. Mansfield) – TBD 2/8 EHS @ Randolph – 6 p.m.

Boys’ hockey 2/5 EHS @ Colchester – 6:10 p.m. 2/10 EHS vs. Spaulding – 8:15 p.m.

The boys’ 4x200m relay team of Baker, Nick Dilello, Barnes and Asanya placed third; the girls’ 4x200m relay team Neddo, Moffatt, Whitney and Hastings placed third; the boys’ mile relay team Rodrigue-Hotchkiss, Thomas, Hutcheon and Poulin placed third; the girls’ 4x800m relay team Murphy, Anna Burke, Melissa Morris and Mina Zhao placed thid; and the boys’ 4x800m team Jake Moran, Jasper SkinnerSloan, Nick Coburn and Peter Alden placed fourth. The majority of the athletes hit either seasonal or personal bests through their training and hard work. The coaching staff — Mike James, Danielle Tkach, Adam Lacross, Chris Polakowski, V Chase, Jacob Rodriguez, and a cameo appearance from Tiffany Gilbert — did an excellent job all winter. Also congrats to Milton pole vaulter Kristen Potter, who won the D-II pole vault and was crowned state champion as a freshman. She trained

– See shorts on page 2b

2a 2b

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

S pORTS sHorTs from page 1b

1. Allie Green, 8.7 2T. Abbie Gehsmann, Anna Charland, 8.6 4. Abbey Gleason, 8.5

with us all winter! For complete results go to athletic.net.

Bars 1. Gehsmann, 8.7 2. Green, 8.2 3. Abbie Evans, 7.4

As a side note, the late start (1 and 3 p.m.) was a head scratcher. Norwich was not being used all day. The final event (girls’ triple jump finals) ended at 10:55. That was nothing short of ridiculous! The majority of our team kept a positive attitude and stayed focused, however that was made even more difficult by the precarious scheduling of the Winter Ball on the night of our team’s most important track and field meet of the season. I appreciate parents understanding as well. Their coordinated efforts helped kids leave after their last event, but the distraction didn’t help. A couple of kids even missed the dance. Our season schedule was set well before Thanksgiving and the start of the winter season. I honestly hope that never happens again. GymnasTics The gymnastics team honored senior Abbie Evans last week on senior night. Abbie’s parents, Maureen and Rob, were on hand to join in the festivities. Ali Greene gave a stirring, emotional tribute to her teammate and friend. The Hornets defeated Milton easily 133.55-98 and now focus their attention on states next Saturday. Here’s an in-depth look at the results: vault

its only game last week 26-23. The gals are still in search of that elusive first win of the winter and host CVU Thursday evening. The EMS Eagle girls’ basketball team continued its winning streak last week beating Hunt away 30-19 and Edmunds at home 30-18. Leading scorers for EMS were eighth-graders Noelle Lyon with 10 points and Rachel Yandow with 11 points. EMS is 12-2 for the season with two more regular season games along with the Colchester and ADL tournaments.

Beam 1. Lindsey Gleason, 9.0 2. Charland, 8.7 3. Green, 8.5 Floor 1. Gehsmann, 8.8 2. Green, 8.6 3. Dusablon, 8.45 all-around 1. Gehsmann, 34.1 2. Green, 34.0

Boys’ BaskETBall The boys’ basketball team is 6-10 after a 1-1 week. They beat South Burlington 55-45. Riley Smith scored 25 with Eli DiGrande and Eli Baez each adding 11 in the win. The Hornets slipped versus CVU, coming up short for a 61-50 score. DiGrande totaled 14 and Smith had 13. With four games left in the regular season, Essex hosted Spaulding Monday and travels to the other Metro school in the Northeast Kingdom, North Country, on Thursday. The JVs have strung together five wins in a row and are 10-6. The younger Hornets had easy times with the Rebels 64-43 and the Red Hawks 50-39. The frosh boys’ basketball team had games cancelled versus U-32 and BFA-Fairfax. They beat Spaulding and Rice before losing a 5950 contest to the South Burlington Rebels. This week they host MMU then play at BFA in the St. Albans tourney.

Girls’ BaskETBall The girls’ basketball team lost a couple of big games last week and have a record of 10-4. Champlain Valley dropped the Hornets in Hinesburg 63-28 in a game you’d think they’d like to forget. Coach Montague will get them to remember that one, especially in the Feb. 18 rematch. Essex then fell 50-40 to a Rice team that heated up in the second half. The Hornets led 10-6 after eight minutes and 22-17 at the half, but Rice’s 20-6 third-quarter run spelled trouble for Essex. Rice’s Lisa Sulejmani had 23 while Taylor Truax’s 14 led the Hornets. They traveled to the Northeast Kingdom on Tuesday to play St. Johnsbury and host Burlington on Friday. The JVs, also 10-4, lost to the Red Hawks and the Knights. They played two close, exciting basketball games. The Girls JV B squad lost a razor-close contest to BFA-Fairfax in

Girls’ HockEy The girls’ hockey team had no games last week. Their record of 10-3-1 slots them first in Division I despite their solo Vermont loss to Middlebury. This week the gals play three games against the Rebels, the Tigers and the Marauders. The home games are Wednesday and Friday nights. Wednesday’s game is for Childhood and Cancer Awareness. Activities include a donation box at the admission’s desk, a Teddy Bear toss (or any stuffed animal you may like to donate), and the Hornet’s will be donating stuffed animals for sale. The contest involves your stuffed animal being tossed on the ice closest to the center faceoff dot during an announced intermission. Prizes include an Essex Cinemas gift card. Please remember to wear gold. The bears will be collected and donated to the UVM Children’s Hospital. Boys’ HockEy The boys’ hockey team has won five in a row and play to a record of 10-3-1. The Hornets edged CVU 1-0 behind Alex Giummo’s goal off an Austin Theriault assist. Erik Short made 21 saves in his fifth shutout of the winter. On Friday — the game was changed because of the Winter Ball — the team traveled down Route 7 and blitzed Rutland 6-0. Lots of goals and another shut out. This week the team hosts Rice and also plays at Colchester.

WrEsTlinG The wrestlers vacationed (kidding) in Hampton Beach last weekend and finished eighth in the Winnacunnet Invitational. Competition is the only reason to go there in the winter. Highlights include second-place finishes by Jack Carney and Alex Rizvanov, and third-place finishes by John Stawinski and Ben Stewart. They hit the road for Barre mid-week and Jericho on Saturday. alpinE skiinG The alpine ski team had a busy and productive weekend. On Friday, the boys skied to a fourth in the GS (that’s Giant Slalom for you non-racers) as Eric DeWitt was sixth, Brenan Goodrich was 14th and Sully Martin 15th. The girls placed seventh as a team, with Annie Bovee placing 23rd and Hannah Danis 24th. On Saturday, the boys ended up seventh with Martin cracking the top-15 by finishing in 11th place. The girls also skied seventh with Danis 18th in a very deep field. According to Coach Goodrich, this is traditionally a non-scoring even, as at the end of both days all teams are scored on the basis of their topfour boys and girls in both events — similar to an NCAA carnival. The final tallies put Essex seventh out of nine. cHEErlEaDinG The varsity cheerleaders competed in this competition on Saturday, Jan. 30. While there were no placings, each team was judged and given a score.

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Essex earned the second highest score out of 37 teams, missing first by only fourth-tenths of a point. They had a great showing at their first competition of the season and represented Vermont well in true Essex fashion. I was proud of how they conducted themselves and how they performed.

25,000 13.67 341.60

miscEllanEoUs Former Hornet Mackenzie Burnett of the University of New England made the dean’s list for the third time in her college career. She is a student in the nursing school and plays hockey on the school club team that she started last year. Mackenzie is one of the founding officers, and the vice president of the team, which is undefeated this season after beating ColbySawyer last weekend 8-2. Other club hockey wins this year include Harvard and Bates College. Super Bowl is upon us. Livingrooms, basements, taverns and couches will be filled on Sunday for 3.5 hours as Super Bowl 50 plays out on CBS. The Broncos and the Panthers may be a heck of a game. Cynthia Hoehl passed away last month. She was a former EJ-ite, was married to Bob of IBM and IDX, had children who graduated from Essex, and I even remember serving on jury duty with her once in 1999. The obituary read, “…the family asks that you take a loved one to dinner, and if the Spirit moves you, make either a time or monetary donation to your favorite charity.” Class. Happy birthday wishes to 1988 grad and my niece Kristin Hathaway Peet who turns 39 (once again) on Thursday. Hit her up on Facebook and blow up her page. No, you don’t have to tell her you read it here, but you can wish her a happy 39th! She was a solid field hockey and hoop player and excelled in track and field where she threw shot put and discus. In fact, she ranks and 10th respectively all-time in our Hornet record book in shot put (38’ 1”) and discus (109’ 9”). Her now 12-year-old twins are beautiful and she married a great guy. I also would like to wish a special happy birthday to my mom, Rosemary Gonillo. I love her dearly. She and my dad, who passed away in 2013, moved to Essex Junction to retire in 2000 I could not be happier. She is still a fantastic cook, learning my grandmother’s spaghetti sauce, sausage and homemade meatball recipe rivaled only by Bove’s. Plus she adds in a few cups of love to make it extra special. Enjoy your day and thanks for everything, especially your support and cooking!

Having a Super Bowl Party?

Let Domino’s tackle the food! Call 878-1111 for delivery

or pick up at 19 Park St., Essex Jct. open game day 11 to 12

3b 3a

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

AUCTION PUBLIC AUTO AUCTION! Buy like the dealers! 300+ autos to choose from! Saturday, February 6 @ 10AM 298 J Brown Dr., Williston, VT THCAuction. com • 802-878-9200 TAX PREP

6840. CRYSTAL DISH, ROUND, beautiful antique with designs. 10» in diameter. Handle in center. $50. 802-658-1636 BOOKS, PAPERBACK, THRILLERS, fiction, novels, adventure etc. Some Tom Clancy. $.50 per book or $19.50 for the box. Call 802-891-6140.

ABCRON ENTERPRISES, LLC Tax Preparation and Bookkeeping Services *Individual, Business & Military Returns * Bookkeeping * Free Tax Assessment (last 3 years) Andrea Cronmiller, EA 703-986-4958 Milton, VT

COOK BOOK, MICROWAVE, 350 recipes, soft covered. Excellent condition, vintage cookbook Joy of Cooking. Good condition. 2 for $5. Call 802-891-6140.

HOMESHARE

HAT, LADIES’, NEW, light purple, beautiful. Has brim and flaps that cover ears. Size 7 1/4. $10. 802-658-1636

SO. BURLINGTON: Share a home with a retired educator, active with volunteering, sports and gardening. Seeking a housemate to share occasional evening meals together. $350/month. Sorry, no pets. 863-5625 orwww.HomeShareVermont.org for more info and application. Interview, refs, background checks req. EHO. ESSEX JCT: Share an apartment with a woman in her 60s who works FT, and enjoys knitting and movies. Compact, unfurnished bedroom; shared bath. $450/month (all included). No pets, no smoking. 863-5625 or www.HomeShareVermont.org for more info and application. Interview, refs, background checks req. EHO. BUSINESS NOW OPEN TOOL WIZARD & MORE: Repairs Air, Electric & Gas Tools, Small Engine, Snow Removal Equipment and more. Now located at 3 River Street, #5 Milton (Old Carquest Building). 343-8690 NOW OPEN: We’ve combined businesses and relocated: Tool Wizard & more (Formerly Milton Copy Ship & more): We are your local headquarters for Fedex/DHL Shipping, Copying, Faxing, Vinyl Signs/ Lettering, T-shirts & more. Now located at 3 River Street #5 Milton ( Former Carquest Building). 891-6320 SERVICES Want a great start to 2016? Have Lafayette Painting give your home a beautiful, refreshed look. We can transform a room in a day! Call 863-5397 or visit LafayettePaintingInc.com and have a Happy New Year! FOR SALE HEATER: kerosene monitor, heats 2,000 square feet, 93% efficient good condition. great for home camp, or garage. $300 802658-2412 weekdays. FREEZER, CHEST, HAIER, 2’ 29” wide by 2’ 33” deep. Six months old, bought bigger refrigerator. $125. Call 802-5247141. MICROWAVE HAMILTON BEACH, $35. Call 802-933-6840. VACUUM CLEANER, KENMORE. Asking $55. Call 802-933-

BATHROBE, NEW, LADIES’ heavy bathrobe with belt. 100% cotton, size M. Black with white designs. $20. 802-658-1636

JACKET, MENS, DOWN, Lands’ End, navy blue, zip-off hood, size XX Large, 50-52, Excellent condition. $30. Call 802524-5070. SKI PARKA, SPECIAL Blend, new, size large, bright yellow. $40. Call for details. 802-524-1139 TOTE, NEW, WITH handles, 21”x13”, beautiful. $10. 802-658-1636 WEDDING DRESS SIZE 20, never been worn, beautiful beaded work, white with straps and 6› train. $150. OBO. Call 802752-5624. COMPUTER, COMPAQ, DESKTOP, Windows 7. Works great. $75. 802-868-6364 WATER PITCHER, GLASS, large. Never used. $5. 802-6581636 WORD PROCESSOR, BROTHER, with user guide included. Excellent condition. $20. OBO. Call for details. 802-524-1139

$100. 802-868-6364

all. 802-868-7276, leave message.

WARDROBE, WICKER, BLONDE, 4 drawers, 6’ high by 3’ wide. Like new condition. $100. Call 802524-7141.

SAP HYDROMETER $10., Syrup Hydrometer $15., Short Cup $25., Long Cup $30. 802-8687276 leave message.

BLANKETS, TWIN SIZE, a whole tote full. Asking $20. Call 802-933-6840.

BLACK LIGHT, 19”. Ex-

MATTRESS AND MATCHING box spring, queen size Serta Perfect Sleeper. Nonsmoking home. Excellent condition. $125. 802527-0677

cellent working condition. $10. 802524-5070 SNOW BLOWER, SIMPLICITY, 28 wide, 11.5 H.P., windshield, headlights, electric or pull start. $450. or best offer. Call

802-827-3116. ELECTRIC STOVE, DURAFLAME, new, with heater, adjustable heater with thermostat and adjustable flame. Has instruction book and box. $60. 802-658-1636

3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 | Equal Opportunity Employer

Make a difference as a

Home Health Nurse

Call on the full range of your nursing skills & help people regain independence, stay healthy & find peace of mind.

MATTRESS COVER, FITTED, for full double bed. Excellent condition. $5. 802658-1636

• • • •

MATTRESS COVER, TWIN size. Never been used. Asking $20. Call 802-9336840.

•

RECTANGULAR CREATIVE TOP with many designs, for kitchen use. $5. 802658-1636

Provide one-to-one patient care Address acute care needs in the home Use point-of-care technology Support and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team Work in or near your community

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WALL PICTURES, (2), Mediterraneanstyle, matching set. One is of a Senorita, one is of a matador. Each 14” x 26”. Excellent condition. $35. for the pair. 802-658-1636 COMPRESSION STOCKINGS, XL, two pair. Brand new, never worn. $70. or best offer for both pair. 802-233-2532

I feel so good when I can make a difference! Join me.

CRUTCHES, ADULT, ALUMINUM, adjustable, fits 5’2” to 5’10”. Excellent condition. $20. Call 802891-6140.

GUNS FOR SALE Winchester 101 Light XTR 12 gauge, Browning BT99, 2BBL set 12 gauge, Mossberg Silver Reserve 20 gauge. Call 802-6442166. HUTCH, MICROWAVE

Call on the full range of your skills & help people stay healthy & find peace of mind.

• • •

VICKS VAPORIZER, LIKE new. Asking $10. Call 802-933-6840.

•

WALKERS, WITH WHEELS, (2). One is black, $25. One is gray, $20. Call 802933-6840.

Provide one-to-one personal care and emotional support Use your LNA skills to help people remain in their home Collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary home care and hospice team Work in or near your community

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To advertise your listings contact your ad rep today! 802-878-5282

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Open floor plan on 1st level offers living, dining and kitchen with center island, plus spacious family room and office/den. 2nd floor offers master bedroom suite with sitting room and French doors to bedroom and balcony. 2 additional bedrooms, laundry on 2nd level. $359,800

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Champlain Community Services is a progressive, intimate, developmental services provider agency with a strong emphasis on self-determination values and individual & family relationships.

EarnSome Extra Cash! Route #1. Lamoille, East, Park Ave, Arlington, Waverly, Pleasant. Route #4. Park St, Silver Bow, Stanton, River, Mill. Route #5. Sherwood Square Condos, Village Glen Condos, Brickyard Condos, Brookside Condos, Sugartree Ln, Brickyard Rd. Route #14. Pearl, School, Park Terrace. Route #16. South Hill, Southview, Redwood, Greenwood, Cascade Ct. Route #23. Drury, Upland, Maple, Colonial Park Condos. Route #25. Mansfield, Mansfield Ext, Birch, Whipple, Maplewood, Mapleton Apartments, Lilla, Shawn. Route #27. Main St. Route #28. Countryside (even), Beech, Tamarack, Spruce, Locust, Hubbells Falls. Route #29. Countryside (odd), Beech, Aspen, Walnut, Vale, Chestnut.

Call 878-5282 or email michael@ essexreporter.com

Garry’s Barber Shop. 878-4010

Must be willing to work flexible hours. Please send letter of application and resume to: Poulin Grain Inc. ATTN: John Robillard 24 Depot Street Swanton, VT 05488 Or apply in person at: 24 Depot Street, Swanton Poulin Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer

(802) 527-7531 | www.fchha.org

JOHNSON WOOLEN JACKET, size 48 short. $40. 802-782-0394

AvAilAble Routes:

YATES FAMILY FARM MAPLE SYRUP New from 2015! Golden with Delicate Taste, Amber with Rich Taste & Dark with Robust Taste. $44 - Gallon $24 - Half Gallon $15 - Quart, $10 - pint

This full-time position offers excellent pay, health insurance, vacation, 401K, and profit sharing for the appropriate candidate.

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SHOWER CHAIR, BRAND new. $60. or best offer. 802-2332532

PLASTIC SAP BUCKETS, (12), blue with lids and bucket spouts. $120. for

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RAISED TOILET SEAT, brand new. $50. or best offer. 802-233-2532

LEAD SLED PLUS, Caldwell, (new), $150. 802868-7276, leave message.

Heavy Truck/Trailer Mechanic

3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 | Equal Opportunity Employer

PORTABLE EXERCISER STEPPER, Motion FISHING TACKLE 1000. $50. Call for BOX, with some tackdetails. 802-524-1139 le in it. Jig stick and pail. $40. for all. 802GUN CABINET, 782-0394 HOLDS eight guns. Asking $85. Call 802933-6840.

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VILLAGE OF ESSEX JUNCTION PLANNING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 18, 2016 PUBLIC MEETING 6:00 P.M. Conceptual Master Plan for a proposed mixed use development of an 1.27 acre parcel for commercial, residential and elderly housing with parking at 9 & 11 Park St. in the VC District by Handy’s Hotels and Rentals, LLC, owner. _______________________________ This DRAFT agenda may be amended. This meeting will be held in the conference room of the Essex Junction municipal building at 2 Lincoln St., Essex Junction, VT. Legal ad for 02/04/16, Essex Reporter Any questions re: above please call Robin Pierce or Terry Hass – 878-6950

Shared Living Provider: Provide residential supports to an individual in your home or theirs. A generous stipend, paid time off (respite) and comprehensive training & supports are provided. • Live with an intelligent man in Burlington who enjoys his job, being a part of his community and is a great conversationalist. • Provide a part time home for a humorous gentleman with autism who enjoys walking, crunching numbers, drawing and bowling. • Provide a home for an older gentleman with increasing medical needs who enjoys watching the hustle and bustle of an active household. • Live with a laid back gentleman in his Winooski home who enjoys relaxing, going to baseball games, running errands and mall walking. For more information contact Jennifer Wolcott, jwolcott@ccs-vt.org or 655-0511 ext. 118 Community Inclusion Facilitators: Provide one on one inclusion supports to an individual with an intellectual disability or autism. Help folks lead fulfilling lives, reach their goals and be productive members of their community. We currently have several positions with comprehensive benefit packages. Send your resume and cover letter to staff@ccs-vt.org These are great opportunities to join a distinctive developmental service provider during a time of growth

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4a 4b

The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

Friday at 5 p.m. for display ads

for a free quote or to place an ad PHONE: FAX: EMAIL: MAIL:

802-878-5282 802-651-9635 classifieds@essexreporter.com The Essex Reporter 42 Severance Greene, Unit #108 Colchester VT 05446

DEADLINES Friday at 5 p.m. for line ads to run in the following Thursday paper

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Walk-ins welcome. All men’s haircutting needs and a hot lather, straight razor, neck shave with every haircut! Just $15.00. Cash or check only! Jan. – March Tues-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-12 pm 38 Park St. /Essex Jct

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Jan. 25-31, 2016 Monday 0743 Disabled Vehicle on Maple St 0814 Juvenile Problem on Maple St 0840 Theft on Morse Dr 1008 Theft on Susie Wilson Rd 1317 Welfare Check on Main St 1556 Accident on Lang Dr 1816 Suspicious on Old Colchester Rd 1940 Citizens Dispute on Sugartree Ln Tuesday 0657 Passing Stopped School Bus on River Rd 0702 Accident on Susie Wilson Rd 0716 VIN Verification on Maple St 0724 Directed Patrol on Main St 0744 Citizens Dispute on Colchester Rd

0859 0954 1029 1150 1300 1455 1520 1751 1814 2052 2124 2323

Juvenile Problem on Founders Rd Welfare Check on Main St Parking Problem on River Rd Agency Assist on Educational Dr Fraud on Pioneer St Fraud on Drury Dr Agency Assist on North St Accident on Fort Parkway Accident on Lincoln St Alarm on Market Pl Alarm on Morse Dr Animal Problem on Osgood Hill Rd

Wednesday 0055 Disabled Vehicle on Upper Main St 0728 Directed Patrol on Main St

1018 1208 1227 1349 1406 1415 1637 1638 1756 1853 2049 2132 2154 2228

Phone Problem on Logwood Cir Theft on Elm St Accident on West St Suspicious on Maple St 911 Hang-up on Maple St Agency Assist on Tanglewood Dr Citizens Assist on Park St 911 Hang-up on Sugartree Ln Juvenile Problem on Oakwood Ln Suspicious Person on Maple St 911 Hang-up on Densmore Dr Noise Complaint on Central St Theft on Essex Way Welfare Check on Catella RD

Thursday 0643 Alarm on Pearl St

85 PRIM ROAD, Suite 204 Colchester, VT 05446 mbombardier@budgetblinds.com www.budgetblinds.com

0729 Directed Patrol on Main St 0746 VIN Verification on Maple St 0841 Suspicious Circumstance on Pearl St 0940 VIN Verification on Colchester Rd 0954 Parking Problem on Ivy Ln 1010 Found Stolen Property on Park St 1037 Accident on Pearl St 1105 Susp Circumstance on Lincoln St 1124 Found Property on Pearl St 1216 911 Hang-up on Gauthier Dr 1234 Parking Problem on Upland Rd 1349 Motor Vehicle Complaint on Educational Dr 1424 Theft on Pearl St 1543 Accident on Park St 1549 Phone Problem on Railroad Ave 1636 Agency Assist on Autumn Pond Way 1816 Directed Patrol on Browns River Rd 1818 Juvenile Problem on Main St 2106 Susp Circumstance on Center Rd Friday 0222 DUI on Pearl St 0716 Animal Problem on Cherokee Ave 0814 Accident on Jericho Rd 0846 Citizens Assist on Park St

1002 1033 1159 1230 1241 1356 1404 1606 1629 1749 1915 1927 1936 1947 2011 2050 2234 2336

Accident on Browns River Rd Accident at Indian Brook 911 Hang-up on W Hillcrest Rd Animal Problem on Rustic Dr VIN Verification on Willeys Ct VIN Verification on Colchester Rd Accident on Essex Way Citizens Assist on Lincoln St VIN Verification on Maple St Shoplifting on Essex Way Alarm on Pearl St Agency Assist on West St Accident on Old Colchester Rd Accident on Pearl St Slide Off on Upper Main St Family Fight on Sand Hill Rd Accident on Susie Wilson Rd Alarm on Pearl St

Saturday 0035 DUI on Pearl St 0430 Accident on I289 0528 Property Damage on Colchester Rd 0740 Alarm on Educational Dr 0842 Alarm on Old Stage Rd 1433 Traffic Offense on I 289 1613 Accident on Essex Way 2130 Found Property on Susie Wilson

Rd 2232 Alarm on Essex Way 2322 Susp Vehicle on Walden Woods Sunday 0023 Alarm on Pearl St 0055 Family Fight on Blair Rd 0349 Juvenile Problem on S Summit St 0627 Alarm on Kiln Rd 0944 Animal Problem on Mansfield Ave 1117 Vandalism on Loubier Dr 1155 Theft on Bixby Hill Rd 1309 Welfare Check on Iroquois Ave 1432 Welfare Check on Catella Rd 1436 Juvenile Problem on Oakwood Ln 1842 Theft on Pearl St 1844 Intoxicated Person on Park St 1914 Alarm on Susie Wilson Rd 2126 Theft on Upper Main St 2205 Missing Person (located) on Lincoln St 2327 Suspicious Circumstance on Pearl St Tickets issued: 24 Warnings issued: 136 Fire/Ems calls Dispatched: 57

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The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

S CHOOLS

Photo

FMS

of the week

Students go bananas at Founders Memorial School helping out Essex Town School District Child Nutrition Coordinator Bonnie Szarkowski make banana bread. PhoTo | MARiA hARRiS

EHS

FMS third-grade students proudly stand in front of their winter bulletin board that they created with the assistance of Artie Leggett’s gracious time and suggestions. PhoTo | ARTiE LEGGETT

If you have ever been in Founders Memorial School during morning announcements, you would have likely heard the very expressive student registrar, “Gramma” Artie Leggett, reading the lunch menu for the day with an emphasis on “... and served with ice cold milk.” The Button Bunch students chime in saying this each day and smile from ear to ear when doing so. They also enjoy when Ms. Leggett stops by their classroom to collect attendance and joins their morning meeting greeting. They appreciate when she delivers a forgotten homework folder and love waving hello to her throughout the day when traveling by the front office. The Button Bunch also appreciates Ms. Leggett’s hard work on the bright, beautiful bulletin board she prepares in the front lobby for all to admire. As the third-grade

students were looking at the 3-D bulletin board in December, one student commented: “I wish we could create an interactive bulletin board like this.” Of course, as soon as Ms. Leggett was asked if she would collaboratively work with students to do this, she enthusiastically agreed. Students and Jenn Button brought in winter objects from home. Ms. Leggett met with each student individually to create a math word problem or find a fun research fact about the winter object they wanted to display. Button Bunch students truly enjoyed this one-on-one interaction and learning. The January winter bulletin board, named “It’s Snow Secret — Mrs. Button’s Class Loves to Learn” looks great. Thank you Gramma Artie for the unique learning opportunity and the chance to use our creative minds!

CTE cTE Dental assisting program is looking for feedback: Please consider providing feedback on the CTE Dental Assisting Program including curriculum, facilities, work experience procedures and any other aspects of program delivery with respect to Commission on Dental Accreditation standards. A copy of the accreditation standards and/or the Commission on Dental Accreditation’s policy on third-party comments can be obtained

course selection: Registration forms for course selections for the 2016-2017 school year should be complete and in Power School. Ninth- and tenth-graders will have appointments set with their school counselors to finalize course selections. The appointment times were mailed home the week of Jan. 25 and will run Feb. 4-19. Eleventh-graders should drop their worksheets off to school counseling ASAP, as they met with their counselors in December. Jazz band/spaghetti dinner: The Essex High School band program hosted a “Swing Away the Winter Blues” spaghetti dinner and dance on Jan. 23. Band students cooked and served the meal to community members, while the jazz bands provided entertainment. You can hear our talented students perform with area middle school eighth-grade band students at their next concert on Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. in the EHS auditorium. Admission is free and open to the public.

by contacting the commission at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, or by calling 1-800-621 8099, extension 4653 We expect a visiting Commission on Dental Accreditation team in May 2016. Comments (strengths/weaknesses/complaints/concerns) must be received by Feb. 15. Please send your comments directly to the commission at 221 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Hiawatha Highlights

community internship dinner: The Community Internship Dinner was held in the high school library on Jan. 19. Despite the year’s first snowy roads and hazardous driving conditions, 90 students, parents and community members enjoyed presentations from internship students. Many described their learning experiences and duties at their internship sites. Some spoke of the bonds they now have with their mentors in these venues. Many thanks to all who came, and especially to the businesses or community members who have agreed to be part of this program. This was organized by Coordinator of Career Development and Curriculum Pam Hemingway and Community Internship Instructor Mary Beth Perilli. Following is a list of the business that have graciously worked with us during first semester and continue to do so:

international potluck dinner On Jan. 15, the Hiawatha School community shared an amazing night together to celebrate the many cultures during Hiawatha’s first annual international potluck dinner. We celebrated by using different languages to welcome everyone, tasting a variety of foods from different countries, getting passports stamped, listening to international music, wearing clothing from different cultures, learning origami and getting a beautiful Henna design on our hands. There were between 150-200 people in attendance for this fun, enriching event. Thank you to all the families who attended and to all the teachers, staff and PTO members who helped make the night a success. reminders • STREAM of Lights Parade is on Feb. 12 • PTO meeting is on Feb. 2

HOMEBUYER’S WORKSHOP

hiawatha hosts an international potluck dinner Jan. 15. PhoTo CoNTRiBuTED

ETSD Events

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Feb. 8 — School board meeting, Founders Memorial School Library, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 15 — School board meeting, Founders Memorial School Library, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

EMS Feb. 4 — Orchestra concert, 7-8 p.m.

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FMS Feb. 12 — River of Lights Celebration at Essex High School, 5:307:30 p.m.

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Feb. 5 — PTO bingo night, cafeteria, 6-7 p.m.

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The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

S CHOOLS EMS

Fleming Flyer Winter instrumental concert, and pTo bake sale: On the evening of Jan. 27, band and string students performed in the annual Winter Instrumental Concert. Band instructors Ralph Costanza and Adam Sawyer, and strings instructor Asiat Ali, worked with our students to construct a program to showcase their talent and progress in our music program. The Fleming community came together to celebrate the dedication of these student musicians and their hard work in preparation for their first instrumental concert of the year. Following the concert, the PTO hosted a bake sale to benefit the Principal’s Discretionary Fund (this fund allows the school to provide for a variety of student, family and staff needs). Thank you to everyone who made a baked-good donation, and to everyone who made a contribution to our Principal’s Fund. This was truly a night of community celebration. “Twins Day” for Fleming spirit: For our January Spirit Day, Fleming Student Council members collected votes from their classmates, and it was decided that Jan. 29 would be “Twins Day.” Students paired up with a friend or a group of their classmates and dressed alike. Students were creative in their construction of twins outfits. Those looking forward to February Spirit Day are already making plans for “Tropical Island Day.” coming soon — Fleming dance-off: Students at Fleming are preparing in full force for the dance-off that will be taking place Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. During the next couple of weeks in class, students will be learning a dance routine that they will be performing in front of three celebrity judges. Students are working hard to learn their routines and use their cooperation skills to make their dance the best it can be. Save the date in your calendar, as all are welcome to come watch and enjoy this fun, energizing event. Gearing up for the sTrEam of lights: Students continue to work on their lanterns for our district-wide parade on Feb. 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Essex High School. Our community is working hard to put all of the many pieces into place for a fun evening, and we are looking for volunteers. To learn how you can lend a hand to make this night a big success, head over to our website (http://fleming.ccsuvt. org/) and follow the link to our district’s information page. If you have a child in one of our schools, or if you live within our community, there are many ways you can help out. We look forward to this connected community activity. pTo night meeting: The PTO will host their first night meeting of the year on Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. in the learning center. The PTO will present many engaging opportunities for parents to have greater involvement at their children’s school.

ADL Agenda

Students on the Edge Academy team at Essex Middle School had the great privilege to hear about telling “untold stories” from award winning author Tanya Lee Stone. This visit helped to prepare them for their trip to the Flynn Theater to see “Black Angels Over Tuskegee.” PhoTo | LiNDSEY hALMAN

Geo Bee student advances

As we approach February, activity at ADL steps up. We start with our band concert Feb. 11 at 7 p.m., followed by the STREAM of Lights CCSU artist-in-residence culmination event beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 12 at Essex High School. The week of Feb. 15 signals our most anticipated event: the annual basketball tournament. We start the week with our ADL Spelling Bee, where 2025 students who qualified to compete will participate in the Scripps Spelling Bee. In front of the whole ADL community, students will individually spell harder and harder words until we eventually end up with our school champion. This champion will then compete in the state version of the Scripps Spelling Bee at St. Michael’s College in March. Next up during tourney week is our pep rally on the afternoon of Feb. 17. The highlight of the rally is the eighth-grade basketball players vs. the staff game and also a hotshot competition, which last year was won by teacher Lindsay Citorik. The tournament itself begins at 4 p.m. on Feb. 17 and runs through Feb. 20. We hope you’ll consider joining us for any and all of these events, as they showcase ADL students giving their best to exemplify our ADL Charger spirit. — Laurie Singer, Principal aDl Band Winter concert: The ADL Music Department is excited to present the ADL bands in concert on Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in the school gymnasium. Members of the ADL Band, Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble will be on hand to play selections from various genres and time periods. If you have the time to join us, please do. You are in for an exciting evening of band literature. We hope to see you on Feb. 11. yearbook – final weeks: If you plan to order an ADL Yearbook, we are heading toward the finish line. Final orders must be received by March 2. Order forms are available in the office or online on the ADL website. Don’t be left out. save the Date: We wanted to give parents and community members advance information regarding the ADL Chorus and Handbell Concert in March. Due to scheduling difficulties, the concert date has been changed to March 22 at 7 p.m. The original date was March 24. Please mark your calendars today and don’t miss this wonderful evening of vocal music and handbell selections.

EES

Christ the King School eighth-grader Kevin Moynihan, center, bested nine fellow finalists to win the school level competition of the National Geographic Bee. Caroline Banks, left, of Colchester came in second place. The school bee, during which students answered questions on U.S. and world geography, was the first round in the 28th annual National Geographic Bee. Thousands of schools around the United States and in the five U.S. territories are participating this year. Moynihan will go on to compete at the state level in April for the opportunity to represent Vermont at the National Geographic Bee and a shot at $50,000 in scholarship money. Luke Stevens, right, of Hinesburg came in third. PhoTo CoNTRiBuTED

L.D. Oliver Seed Co.

Chick Day 2016!

Students at Essex Elementary School have been learning about outer space in art class. They are preparing for the grand “Across the Universe” Lantern Parade, which will take place Feb. 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Essex High School. Come celebrate student artwork and music in the handmade paper lantern STREAM of Lights Parade! PhoTo | SuZANNE JouRNEY BLAiN

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Arrival Dates for Layers is April 21st or 22nd

Many Varieties To Choose From!

L.D. Oliver Seed Company, Inc. Green Mountain Fertilizer Co. 26 Sunset Ave., Milton, VT • 802 893-4628 Mon.-Fri. 8am-5:30pm; Sat. 8am-2pm; Sun. Closed

SAT & ACT Test Prep Redesigned SAT coming in March

We’re prepared to get you ready! 802-878-2332 Stern Center for Language and Learning

Williston, VT | www.sterncenter.org

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The Essex Reporter • February 4, 2016

WEDDING GUIDE 2016

Make your vows your own

How we personalized our wedding and how you can, too By Evan EcksTEin & allison EaTon

Weddings are full of traditions. Rehearsal, ceremony, reception. Vows, drinking, dancing. But it’s important you take time to make your wedding your own and add your own flavor to the mix to make the day memorable in ways that are particularly special to you. There are so many different things you can choose to do. Our personalization journey began even before the wedding planning process. After thinking a bit outside the [ring] box, we decided to self-design a heart-shaped engagement ring that slipped into an infinity wedding band. The image of a heart above the infinity symbol has been special to us throughout our relationship and meant more to us than the size of a diamond. Once the engagement was on and the date was set, the venue was our top priority. We wanted the location to be special, just as the rings were. For us, the shores of Maine were a pinnacle piece of our relationship – that’s where it all started, and that’s where we wanted the next stage in our lives together to begin. When we found our venue, we knew immediately it was right for us. The breeze of the ocean and close quarters for our wedding party matched

up with our hopes for an intimate setting to bring our families and friends together in celebration. Next, we began hunting for decorations with more special meaning. We also used this as an opportunity Eckstein designed Eaton’s to share the excitement and heart-shaped engagement ring. journey of wedding planning DANiELLE BRADY PhoToGRAPhY with our friends and family. We embarked on our firstever antiquing adventure accompanied by members of our wedding party, scouring shops for blue bottles to serve as table decorations. During a family affair, cousins, aunts and uncles tried their hands at tying monkey’s-fist knots that, if done successfully, would hold the table numbers. On our wedding day, as everyone approaches their table, we will all be reminded of the fun we had together leading up to this day. Although there were many important details still to be planned, there was one thing we wanted to be sure was taken care of – beverages. We decided to create a couple of signature drinks unique to us. After choosing to include the Jewish tradition of dancing the horah, we knew not everyone is brave enough to be lifted seven feet up in a chair. A shot called the “horah helpah” was born (In Maine, R’s are not commonly pronounced.) Additionally, when the bridesmaids’ dresses turned out more purple than blue, we decided to find humor in the situation and make a drink called the “blurple

blunder,” knowing it would help us and our guests laugh about it together come the big day. Though the drinks are essential to the reception, the ceremony is where the thought really counts. We worked to incorporate traditions unique to both sides of our families but also wanted to add an element to the ceremony that was personal to us. Working with children has always been a thread that bound us together, so we found and will include a children’s book that speaks to our relationship in a creative way. Our wedding started with an engagement, and that engagement started with a ring. For us, the rings were the beginning, but as we continued through the planning process, we found many more ways to make our wedding unique to us. When that day finally comes, each of the things we spent time personalizing along the way will make our day that much more meaningful. Evan Eckstein is a speech-language pathologist at Milton Elementary School. Allison Eaton is a clinical behavior specialist supervisor for the Inclusion Program and Baird School at the HowardCenter in Burlington. The couple resides in Burlington and plans a July 2016 wedding.

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The Essex Reporter â&#x20AC;˘ February 4, 2016