Essex Reporter: February 15, 2018 by Essex Reporter

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February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 1

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Consultants share town center draft By COLIN FLANDERS “The past cannot be the future.” That short tagline from the new Essex Town Center master plan seems to encompass all work going into the ambitious revamp. It’s recognition that although the area remains a vital pocket of growth for Essex’s future, economic forces over the last quarter-century are much different than those today — and the same will be said decades from now. A year in the making, the plan is still in draft form, and it will be at least another year until Essex decision-makers consider any of the recommendations for adoption. But residents and planning commissioners reviewed a draft of the document last Thursday. Four community input initiatives guided the consultants in their crafting of the plan: a steering committee, focus group, community survey and an October open house. Consultants Mark Kane, of Burlington-based SE Group, and Shannon Murray, of Front Porch Community Planning and Design, said their chief goal is to both establish a vision for the ETC’s growth and determine what policies and regulations will help achieve it. But that first required understanding how develop-

ment has evolved since the current town center plan’s adoption in 1991. Turns out, not much. Kane said overall growth has remained somewhat flat, with the bulk of development occurring in and around I-289, a far cry from the full build-out envisioned in the current plan.

- Final plan expected by month's end - Draft shows build-out concept projecting up to 800 new housing units - Consultants plan to recommend up six new zoning districts, focused on a mix of residential and mixed-use “Whatever is happening externally to Essex has not resulted in a lot of fundamental changes,” Kane said. To be fair, a lot has changed since 1991. The circumferential highway is now a punchline, and economic pressures have challenged the viability of traditional growth. Look no further than Peter Edelmann’s plan to revitalize the Essex Outlets to see the response: a density-driven See ETC, page 2

Petitions urge Essex High to change GPA system PHOTO BY NEEL TANDAN

Class-goers take part in a "simple style" tai chi routine at the Essex Senior Center last week. The class is tailored to those who have difficulty standing and is free to the public.

Seniors harness their chi By NEEL TANDAN

or the ideal form in tai chi, one should imagine sitting on the tail of a dragon – core engaged, spine elongated and pelvis forward. This was the advice of instructor Billie Hall while teaching a free seated tai chi class at the Essex Senior Center last week. Seated tai chi is an offshoot of a tai chi for arthritis program, allowing those with impairments that make standing difficult to still reap the benefits of the practice. “This is a combination of both physical and mental,” Hall told the class. “Even though you’re seated, you’re going to get some exercise.” Hall likened the subtle physical shifts in tai chi to stepping off a curb or walking. “We have to shift our weight when we walk. We don't think about it,” she said. “The purpose of the class is to make you mindful of where you are in space and time. Where your feet are. Where your weight is.” There wasn’t a shred of workout clothing in the room, with the attendees donning Vermont winter wear instead – corduroys, jeans, knitted sweaters and turtlenecks. Participants sat on green folding chairs beneath the fluorescent lights, curtains half drawn.

Each movement was slow and deliberate; the air seemed as though it had taken on extra weight as it was pushed and pulled with open hands in front of the eight class-goers. “Pretend you’re in a phone booth. The box is only so big,” Hall said, who teaches sun-style tai chi, with shorter, less strenuous movements and a slower tempo than other forms. "Honor your body. You know where you are today. You know how your body feels today,” she said. During each movement, there was a silence and a calm. You could hear the buzz of the lights, the ticking of the clock and the slow inhalations and exhalations throughout the room. Hall has been practicing tai chi for four years and began teaching two years ago after earning her certificate. She leads both a sitting and standing version of the class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Covenant Community Church and the Essex Senior Center. Hall said many of the people in her sitting class go on to the standing class after regaining strength and balance. “People say ‘You’re not going to gain any strength seated,’ Hall said. “Oh, you come and try it and we’ll see.” See TAI CHI, page 3

By COLIN FLANDERS A pair of online petitions calling on Essex High School to modify its grading scale say the current system has long disadvantaged students when applying for college and scholarships. The petitions aim to address how EHS converts numerical grades to a grade point average. Currently, an EHS student with an 85 percent average earns a 2.4 GPA, while the same student at Champlain Valley Union earns a 3.0. Similar differences can be found up and down the grading scale when compared to schools around the county. “This is unfair and hurts Essex students when they apply to college, try to get jobs or apply for scholarships. Our hard work deserves to be recognized,” reads a petition started by an EHS student, which has garnered over 175 signatures. That petition appeared after a similarlythemed petition started by parent Erynne Ross.

The petitions are the latest development in a long debate over all facets of EHS grading. In 2016, The Reporter detailed discontent with the district’s passing grade of 70 — 10 points higher than seven other county public schools — and faculty previously led a failed effort to convince the school to reexamine its scale in 2009. EHS principal Rob Reardon acknowledged the historical frustration and said the petitions come at a useful time, given the requirement for Vermont schools to move to a proficiency-based system by 2020. That transition is about two years from completion and will include a discussion on whether to keep the traditional 100 scale or shift to a new system altogether, perhaps a 1 to 4 scale or letter-based, Reardon said. As part of the transition, Reardon said he and fellow EHS administrators plan to propose a grading system to the school board this spring, one that’s more See GPA, page 2

One hundred years later, Essex native recalls a life of 'hard work' By COLIN FLANDERS Grace Naylor still remembers plopping chokecherries in a pail under the summer sun, back before she was old enough to help much in the garden except tug at the weeds. It was hard work, but the five cents she’d earn from her grandfather made it all worth it. And she still remembers the early morning trips down Route 15, shoes sinking in the sand during the mile-and-a-half commute to school at the Four Corners, back when cows dotted the countryside and traffic was little more than a trickle. Naylor and her siblings raced to the porch to watch a rare car rumble past, kicking up dirt in its wake. Naylor turns 100 in two days, and time has changed her hometown. The main roadway now sends a reliable rush of cars pass by her family’s old farm where Simon’s Store now sits, and similar buildings have since

sprouted where other families used to tend the land. Naylor has changed, too. Her vision is fading, and arthritis grips her joints to the point she can no longer partake in once-cherished hobbies: tending her envied gardens or crafting braided rugs that cover her household and many others. But she still lights up when jaunting back to her early childhood, back when she and her sister Delvine caught fish in a trout brook nestled behind their house near Indian Brook, where they lived a year until it burnt down. Back when they used to fry fish over a campfire, playing house, pretending they were parents to their younger siblings until their mother died and they could no longer pretend. Naylor was 13 at the time and too young to quit school, so she finished out the eighth grade and then took over household duties,

buying a book to learn her way around the kitchen, cooking for the whole family and impressing company with her homemade cakes and pies and donuts — especially donuts. Her father, meanwhile, worked shifts at the brickyard and tended a dozen cows in the mornings and evenings. Some nights, Naylor walked down to Christmas plays or parties at the Essex Classical Institute. It was a fine trip, save the covered bridge at Brown’s River, where she always feared a skunk lurked in the shadows (luckily, one never did.) Other days, she finished all the work and then tracked down her eight younger siblings to play ball in the yard or slide down the snow-covered hills. Naylor married her husband, Harold, at age 16. Soon after, the couple purchased her father’s farm, which they’d grow to over 300 acres after another purchase. Later, See NAYLOR, page 2

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

Grace Naylor, an Essex native, turns 100 on Saturday.

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The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

NAYLOR from page 1 they sold off the land and bought an old schoolhouse from the town. They raised their two daughters in that 1838 schoolhouse, remodeling it to include a second-story and garage, with their dining and living room in place of former cloak rooms that were split up for boys and girls. Photos throughout the house trace the decades since, from sepia headshots to colorful candids, and two sheets of paper detail important phone numbers — mostly family — next to the landline. Some of those familiar faces planned to trek up to Vermont this week for a birthday gathering. Naylor seemed mostly nonchalant about the upcoming milestone. She

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leaned back in her armchair by the window, occasionally sitting up when she didn’t quite catch the question. Sometimes there wasn’t much to say, like when she was asked the $1 million (or 100-year-old question) — what’s your secret? “I don’t have any secrets,” she said. “Just work hard all my life. That’s all I know.” But every now and then, a certain memory carried her soft voice like a gust of wind back to a simpler time, when a passing car still inspired awe and a full pail meant some pocket change. Naylor's family is hosting an open house on from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday to celebrate her 100th birthday. There will be light refreshments and birthday cake. If you need directions or have questions, contact her granddaughter Lorrie at 849-6455.

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PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

A photo in a scrapbook shows Grace Naylor's Essex home on a bright summer day. The house is a former Essex schoolhouse built in 1838.

GPA from page 1

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consistent with other county high schools. Still, Reardon said the current system’s impact on scholarships and college prospects “depends on who you talk to.” “If they were all local scholarships, I guess that would be true to a certain degree,” he said. “But usually there’s more to it than one indicator.” He called GPA just one of “many variables” factored into scholarships, and said the list of college destinations, including various Ivy League schools, “speaks well” to whether EHS students are disadvantaged. Reardon’s comments illustrate the lack of consensus over how — or if — a school’s grading system impacts a student’s chances to get into college. Some admissions counselors, in-

ETC from page 1 project that would surround businesses with hundreds of housing units. Similarly, the plan looks to create density that would give the ETC a platform to promote its commercial uses, Kane said. He shared a conceptual build-out that showed up to 1,270 housing units, nearly 800 more than what’s there now, in addition to about 600,000 more square feet of retail and commercial uses (he noted it would likely take decades to fully achieve this). But the plan says that growth brings its own trials, from the tall task of winning over a community accustomed to particular architectural characters to navigating vast infrastructural obstacles. Not to mention the highly-coveted views of the Green Mountains and traffic: “If that’s not the elephant in the room, I’m not sure what is,” Kane said. The consultants say the

cluding one The Reporter spoke with from the University of Vermont in 2016, say they review applications within the context of the school system, which can be seen through the school profile submitted for each student. Ross, the petition starter, dismisses that argument. She said while Vermont colleges are likely familiar with local grading systems, many EHS students attend secondary education out of state. And not all schools have time to recalculate grades, she said, using the example of the University of California, Los Angeles, which fielded over 100,000 applications in 2016. A Wall Street Journal article last month reported that with so many more students applying for college than before, some elite schools now employ a committee-based evaluation — staffers divvy up portions of applications instead of one person reviewing the entire file — giving single ap-

plan accounts for all those challenges while striving to create a better more cohesive ETC — one that emphasizes buildings’ relationship to pedestrians and makes it easier to move about the center. One of their main recommendations is to shrink the current ETC boundary from 900 to 700 acres — cutting out the “golden triangle” — to better align with sewer core boundaries and the current business control design overlay district. And changing zoning, currently a “patchwork” of uses, would allow for a more “unified discussion” on development in the area, Kane said. The draft plan recommends creating six unique districts to include residential, residential/recreation, conservation/recreation and a historic center, in addition to two mixed-use zones straddling Route 15 — north and south — with building heights of up to four and five stories, respectively.

plications less than 10 minutes of face time. Plus, Ross said, parents she’s spoken with say some schools don’t recalculate GPA when their children apply for scholarships, nor do insurance companies that offer “good student” discounts. “There’s this nagging feeling for a lot of parents that [our children] are being presented in a worse light than what they’ve actually achieved,” she said. “So when they go to apply, they look like a worse student.” Ross believes more and more students are impacted each year the district fails to remedy the disparity. She said the school needs to implement a fix before the next class of juniors apply for college. While the high school’s planned proposal does mark some progress, Ross said she’s waiting to see real action. “Then we’ll be satisfied,” she said.

The plan says while some residents voiced concerns over building height throughout the public engagement process, others shared interest in higher densities in the ETC. Consensus centered on the protection the long-range views. Edelmann’s project, which calls for three sixstory buildings, falls within the southern zone. Kane explained the higher height cap there is due to a drop in elevation that makes buildings in the southern district appear shorter from Route 15. The draft plan offers a chapter on recreation and open space that encourages intentional features, like plazas or pocket parks, instead of simply “leftover spaces” like wetlands. “While those natural features must be avoided, lands set aside for open space should complement one of the approved forms within a district,” the plan reads. Other chapters discuss ways to create common

design theme and identity for the ETC, and pedestrian and streetscape improvements, ranging from a new road to sidewalk and crosswalk upgrades. A chapter on building codes also sets the stage for a new hybrid planning model that includes some formbased codes. Those offer municipalities a chance to prescribe specific types of growth by essentially creating a regulatory set of expectations for any development. Kane said form-based codes help drive the conversation between the PC and developers by providing a “shared understanding” of the objectives. The consultants now plan to finalize the document and their recommendations by the end of the month before sending it to the PC, which will then begin its review sometime this spring. To see the full draft plan, visit essex.org/tcmp.

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February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 3

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PHOTO BY NEEL TANDAN

Instructor Billie Hall began teaching tai chi as a way to give back to the community. She said she was amazed by the benefits of the practice after taking it up four years ago.

TAI CHI

relaxed and “out of the ears”; and they gathered energy in the palms of their hands and brought it slowly into their body. Hall said socialization is one of the most understated benefits of the practice, some groups being more or less chatty than others and developing their own dynamic. The key is learning how to direct your focus and be aware of one’s own body, Hall said. “It engages our mind in a different way. We're not only thinking about learning something new, but maybe learning how to just let go,” she said. Toward the end of the session,

from page 1 The mental aspect of tai chi is held just as prominently as the physical. During the class, each move was visualized before it was performed and many incorporated an imaginative element, with the dragon’s tail as one example. Participants held imaginary footballs between their hands and rocked them side-to-side; they pretended to have 10-pound weights hanging from their elbows, keeping their shoulders

Hall instructed the class to grasp the “tall grass” at their sides, clenching and releasing, symbolizing the yin and yang that is so important in tai chi. “You don’t know what relaxation is until you’re tight, or vice versa,” she said. For anyone new looking to join, Hall reminds them “it’s not jazzercise,” and the form is slow, each movement building on the previous one. So you have to have to be willing to slow down. “A lot of people think that faster is better,” she said. “Well, I would tend to disagree.”

Scott appoints two Essex residents to judiciary By COLIN FLANDERS Gov. Phil Scott has appointed two Essex attorneys to become Vermont Superior Court judges. David A. Barra, a longtime attorney for the village of Essex Jct., and Scot L. Kline, current general counsel of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, are among four appointees Scott announced last Thursday. “I’m proud to appoint these impressive individuals to serve Vermonters in our judicial system,” Scott said in a news release. “They have each demonstrated integrity and fairness

throughout their careers and bring valuable experience, judgement and leadership to our judiciary.” Barra was a founding partner with Unsworth & Barra, PLC for nearly two decades before starting his own law firm in 2011. He focuses on civil litigation, zoning, landlord/tenant and municipal law, and has extensive appellate experience in the Vermont Supreme Court and the U.S. Courts of Appeals. He didn’t return a call for comment by deadline Tuesday. Kline, who’s practiced law for 30 years, previously served as general counsel at the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources from 2005 to 2007 before

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The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

SCHOOL

Summit Street

Founders Memorial Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman visited with fourth grade students recently to talk about climate change, renewable energy, and ways they can get involved in their government, even though they can’t vote yet. He talked about his family, his job, and the importance of community engagement.

Third-graders at Summit Street School have been working on investigating the magic behind maglev (magnetic levitation) trains. Students were challenged to engineer a train car that would ride down a magnetic track using all of their new knowledge about properties of magnets.

Center for Technology

Essex Westford

Are you interested in being creative with technology? Do you find you doodle on homework? Do you use your cell phone for more than making phone calls? Then the Computer Animation and Web Design at CTE may be for you. The Computer Animation and Web Design (CAWD) program is designed for students interested in acquiring new media skills and entering the fast paced and rapidly changing areas of animation, game design, and web develop-

ment. As a supporting role to our core focuses, we also cover graphic design, video production, and traditional art as it applies to our industries. In our two main disciplines, our CAWD students are reigning National Champions in each. Our students earned the gold medal in Computer Animation, as well the gold medal Web Design at the SkillsUSA Championships last June in Louisville, Ky. Not to be ignored, our students earned a ninth place finish in Video

Game Design as well at the National Championships, which was our second top 10 finish nationally in the last two years. These results say something about our students, and what they can do while in our program. Talk to your guidance counselors at your high school and find out when your school is visiting CTE, and get on the list. Apply today. Learn more about the program by visiting its website (www.cawdvt.org) or its Instagram page (www.instagram.com/cawdvt).

Essex High School As part of a leadership retreat that took place on January 24, EWSD principals and administrators met with a group of students to talk about such topics as equity and re-imagining what our schools could look like, with the goal of starting the development process of a new vision for the district.

Essex Rotary Speech Contest: EHS sophomore Shristi Rai (pictured above) won the Essex Rotary’s annual speech contest on January 31 at its weekly meeting at The Essex. Rai’s moving speech about her journey as a refugee and the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants’ role in her life won her $100. She will next compete in March against other club winners. EHS Scholars' Bowl: The Essex High School Scholars’ Bowl team is rolling along this season, posting an overall record of 40-3. The Hor-

nets, the defending state champions, had a great day in their playoff opener this year on January 27 at Montpelier High School, posting a 4-1 record to earn the #2 seed going into the second playoff date on March 23 at UVM. The ‘A’ team, made up of seniors Nick Norton, Sam Feehan, and Alex He as well as sophomore Henry Wu, will continue its pursuit of another Vermont-NEA State Title with a tune-up tournament on March 9 at Spaulding High School. The ‘B’ team of Grace Lu, Nathan Wu, Sam Evans and David

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Wrenner also had a great day in posting a 4-1 record in their bracket. Essex Has Talent: The ninth annual Essex Has Talent show will be held in the EHS Auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 17, starting at 7 p.m. The program will feature students from our district in grades K-12, as they sing, dance, play instruments, recite poetry, and more. Tickets are $5 the week before the show and can be purchased at EJRP (75 Maple St.) or at EHS during lunch outside of the cafeteria. Kids five and under are free. We can take cash or checks made out to Essex High School. Tickets will cost $7 at the door. The show is a joint production between Essex Junction Recreation and Parks and the EHS Red Cross Club. It serves as the club's biggest fundraiser and proceeds will be donated this year to Aunt Dot's Place and Hope Lodge. Artist Showcase: Five EHS students performed January 9 as part of the Cathedral Arts Young Artists’ Showcase. This is a competitive process and they had to audition to earn a place, as EHS represented five of the eight performers. The students who participated are Jasper Skinner-Sloan (flute), Henry Wu (cello), Tommy Bergeron (French horn), Nathan Wu (violin), and Grace Lu (piano).

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February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 5

opinion & community LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

TO THE RESCUE

Everyone avoids Five Corners The "major development plans" are fundamentally flawed at the outset. Benjamin Avery, BlackRock's principal developer, writes, "the design lends itself to helping create a true village center DESTINATION [caps mine] that will be a key part of the hub of Essex Jct. for generations to come." For generations past (and the present), people have avoided Five Corners due to the congestion. I'm not being critical of that fact; it's just the way it is. The past is prologue to the future. Five Corners will continue to be a destination to be avoided. Five roads converge, plus railroad tracks intersect three of those roads within 100 yards or so of the point of intersection, and pedestrian walk lights cross all five roads. Pretty much no one wants or elects to drive through Five Corners at any time. Come to think of it, isn't that the reason the circ was built? Ed Shoop Essex Jct. Don’t end portability of Vermont state grants Legislation has been introduced in Vermont that would change the portability policy for Vermont state grants that has been in place for 50 years. Portability allows students with Vermont grants to attend the college that best meets their needs, including institutions of higher education located within Vermont or an out-of-state college or university. Grant recipients choose non-Vermont institutions for many reasons. For some, particularly in the southern and border counties, the nearest college is in a neighboring state. For others, the program they seek to study is not available in Vermont. Others seek institutions that have higher graduation rates or offer work-based learning opportunities not available in Vermont. Some attend programs outof-state—particularly in competitive fields like nursing—because they are not admitted to a program in Vermont. Critics of portability argue that, given limited resources, Vermont should restrict where students use their grants. They argue that portability encourages students to leave Vermont, fuels the “brain drain” and hurts Vermont colleges. I see it from a different perspective. Portability as a policy enables some low and middleincome students to attend competitive institutions in other states, to pursue a program that is not available in Vermont or to experience learning in a new place. In our communities of

Essex, Essex Jct. and Westford there are 101 students who received approximately $150,000 in Vermont State grants to attend an out-of-state school last year. Without portability, these students would have to cover the amount of their grants award from another source, potentially student loans. I am a Vermont state grant recipient and attended college out-of-state. As part of my liberal arts education, I lived and studied abroad. I interned at IBM in Madrid, Spain. These experiences and my education shaped me. Eventually, I returned to Vermont to work, raise my family and engage fully in my community. I am grateful that the Vermont State grant policy supported equal access to education opportunities for me. I believe that portability is important to Vermonters. I believe students from families at all income levels should have a choice of educational opportunities within our fine state, or the choice to attend an out-of-state school, and Vermont State grant recipients should be allowed to take their grant with them, regardless of location. Jaye O’Connell Essex Jct. Naughty or nice? Beware the following false dichotomy: One selectboard candidate says she’s collegial and collaborative, as if her opponents aren’t. Actually, making nice with certain developers isn’t brag-worthy. Nor is awarding nice big tax stabilization agreements later, because their monolith lacks tenants or something. How “nice” that residents instead will pick up the tax-tab! Collaborating with someone trying to build a separate recreation fiefdom all his own? Not so helpful. Over $30,000 tax dollars were wasted in 2016 attempting to make that pet project happen. Collegial candidate will allude – and supporters will say – her competition in the race is “not nice.” Yes, Mona Sheppard (with 40 years in finance) makes no bones about sifting through numbers the rest of us don’t know exist and pointing out shoddy accounting. Is such diligence “not nice” or “incredibly prudent”? Yes, Mona Sheppard tells public officials when they are violating conflict of interest policy or personnel guidelines. Is that “not nice” or “helping to ensure a level field and fair play”? Yes, Mona Sheppard has been slandered by those whose ambitions she aborted. Does that not speak vol-

umes about how low other people will go to get revenge when their tidy plans are exposed? Enough with the fawning politicians already! For my tax dollars, I want more outsiders like Mona serving inside my government. Someone who tells it like it is. Who is more concerned about doing the right thing than having friends who’ll do “anything” for her. Please vote on March 6. Dennis Bergeron Essex Town Please vote Please mark your calendars to Vote on Tuesday, March 6 at Essex High School and Essex Middle School. Polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Elaine for Essex! Toni Morgan Essex Jct. Elaine for Essex I am writing to express my support for Elaine Sopchak's candidacy for Essex Town Selectboard. I met Elaine soon after we moved to Essex Jct. 13 years ago and have been continually amazed by her commitment to our community. She does the hard and often under-appreciated work of supporting the structures and organizations that build this fine community. I am grateful that she is willing to extend herself by running for the Essex Town Selectboard and look forward to casting my vote for her on Town Meeting Day, March 6. Please join me in supporting Elaine! Kelly Adams Support for Farr Timothy Farr may not be known by a lot of folks in the Essex area, but he is a native Vermonter who has been here his whole life! I have known Timothy for 10 years, and the Tim I know is someone who is never afraid of a challenge, is always willing to give a helping hand, and is always looking for ways to help improve the life of those around him and those who seek his help. Yes, Tim is an ambitious young man. However, he is ambitious for all the right reasons. I strongly endorse Timothy Farr for selectboard and will be voting for him on Town Meeting Day! He is the compassionate and ambitious voice Essex voters should want to represent them. I hope the voters of Essex Town and Village come to know the Tim I know. If they did, I have no doubt that that would vote for him on Town Meeting Day! Christina A. Beliveau

Email your letter (450 words or fewer) to news@essexreporter.com. Please include your full name, address and phone number. Deadline: Fridays at 5 p.m.

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CHITTeNDeN COUNTY SeNATORS

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REP. LINDA MYERS Several bills were passed on the floor of the Vermont House of Representatives last week including action on reasonable and prudent parent standards, parentage proceedings, human trafficking, insurance companies and trust companies, establishing a Child Fatality Review Team, sale of property subject to unpaid property taxes, and an explanation of advance directives. As you can see, members of the House debated many diverse bills. Last Friday the legislature bid farewell to the 11 young people, including Iris Hsiang of Essex, who have served as legislative pages for the past six weeks. It is always difficult to say goodbye to these bright young people. But we also await the next group of pages who started work on February 13. House members also took time to honor young Vermonters who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 2017. Seven Eagle Scouts from Essex were honored including Craig Cameron, Eric DeWitt, Brian Cookingham, Kevin Donley, Will Klinck, Daniel Perry and Zachary Preston. Congratulations to them on their achievement. This biennium I am serving on the House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development. My committee considers matters relating to business organizations, including banking, insurance, corporations, workforce development, unemployment and workers’ compensation insurance, and the industrial and internal development of the state. The committee has been assigned almost 100 bills since January 2017, and we continue to move through them. Our most important work this year includes several bills dealing with economic and workforce development. We are also considering a bill requiring the registration of data brokers, businesses that amass personal data and sell that information to other parties. And we continue to work on a bill concerning workers’ compensation. Several bills that I consider as most important deal with the Governor’s Interagency Workforce Plan that will strengthen and expand Vermont’s workforce. The goals of the bills are to increase the number and skill level of available workers in Vermont. To do this, we hope to increase the labor participation rate of Vermonters, recruit and relocate more workers to Vermont, and assist employers in accessing and retaining qualified workers. We hope to expand adult training opportunities at career and technical education centers and create an industry-supported system

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for developing and recognizing credentials and certificates earned through apprenticeships and internships. We also want to develop resources to help businesses employ workers with employment barriers. As part of our efforts in this matter I had the distinct pleasure of attending a meeting last Friday with the German ambassador to the United States, Peter Wittig, to discuss the highly successful apprenticeship programs in Germany and how Vermont can increase these programs for young Vermonters. Ambassador Wittig was accompanied to the meeting by Sen. Bernie Sanders. SEN. TIM ASHE I’d like to briefly update you on three important bills before the Senate. First, the Senate will be debating an increase to the minimum wage later this week. A Senate committee has recommended an increase of $4.50 over a six-year period. This is a more aggressive schedule than current law, which raises the wage by annual inflation. Contrary to popular myth, most low-wage workers are not part timers or teenagers. In fact, 55 percent of all Vermont workers earning less than $12.50/hour earn more than half of their family’s income, and 65 percent of these workers are older than 30. The problem of income inequality affects all other areas of public life, and this bill helps those who the national economy has left behind. Second, the Senate will be debating a bill this week to lower prescription drug prices by importing them through Canada. It is outrageous that a commonly used medicine like Lipitor costs 46 times more per pill in the U.S. than in Canada. As expected, the pharmaceutical industry, which last year bested its own lobbying spending records, is raising its usual red herrings. We need to do something about the ripoff Vermont patients are experiencing, and this bill is one promising approach. Third, the Senate passed a bill promoting net neutrality. President Trump’s FCC has reversed earlier policies that prohibited massive telecommunications companies from slowing down some content and generally restricting a free and fair internet. The Senate bill disallows the State from contracting with telecom firms that do not practice net neutrality for their Vermont customers. This is a critical issue for Vermonters and Vermont businesses and schools.

Share the road with emergency vehicles: A plea By TESSA ROY, Essex Rescue

mbulances, firetrucks and police cars, oh my! You’re bound to see these vehicles driving to emergency scenes, and it’s important to know what to do to stay safely out of the way. Vermont law states that when you see an emergency vehicle driving with its emergency lights and siren on, you must pull to the right and come to a complete stop. This clears the road and allows the emergency vehicle to reach its destination quickly and safely. If drivers don’t pull over, or they pull to the left instead of the right, the chances of a collision increase. You may be surprised that we’re spending time writing an article on what seems like such a simple topic, and I hope that many of you reading this article already know and follow the law by pulling to the right and coming to a complete stop. However, I’ve seen countless drivers fail to move over and stop. Take a moment here, dear reader, to pause and think about how it would affect you if it was you or a loved in our ambulance and a car did not yield. Lights and siren are only used when necessary because it increases the risk of a collision between the emergency vehicle and the public. If we are using emergency lights and siren it means someone needs help right away, and time is of the essence. So please, when you see any emergency vehicle with its emergency lights and siren on, pull to the right and come to a complete stop. Wait for the vehicle to pass and take an extra moment to check for other emergency vehicles before you reenter the lane. It only takes a moment and you could save a life. I spoke with one of our drivers at Essex Rescue to get her take on what drivers do that bothers her the most. Michelle Turner has been with Essex Rescue for four years and has been driving the ambulance for three years. She reiterated that drivers not pulling to the right and coming to a complete stop is a daily issue. Michelle also noted that intersections with two lanes of traffic heading in the same direction tend to be tricky. The drivers in the right lane pull to the right, but the drivers in the left lane often pull to the left. While theoretically this clears the center of the road, the opening is often not large enough to move through quickly and safely with our wide ambulances, and since ambulance drivers are trained to always go left it can be dangerous to have cars pulling to the left as well. For this reason, both lanes should move to the right. Cars in left turn only lanes also need to move to the right, something Michelle says she often sees them fail to do. When they refuse to move to the right this can force the ambulance even further to the left and out into opposing traffic. While opposing traffic should also be pulling to the right and coming to a complete stop, it is still more dangerous for the ambulance to drive in the opposing lane than the lane of travel. It comes down to safety. The safety of the ambulance crew, the patient, the other drivers, of any other emergency vehicle operators and of cyclists and pedestrians near the roadway. Keep yourself and others safe by pulling as far to the right as possible, coming to a complete stop, and checking that the lane is clear before you reenter. If we all work together we can get emergency vehicles to where they need to be in a timely manner and we can all stay safe while doing so. As always, if you are interested in being an EMT or a driver with Essex Rescue please contact Joe Congdon at 878-4859 ext 7. We would love to have you!

If we are using emergency lights and siren, it means someone needs help right away, and time is of the essence.

"To the Rescue" is a monthly column provided by Essex Rescue.

THE ESSEX

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news@essexreporter.com www.essexreporter.com Published Thursdays

Deadlines: News & advertising – Fridays at 5 p.m. Circulation: 8,800 The Essex Reporter is owned by Vermont Publishing Corp Inc. and is a member of the Champlain Valley Newspaper Group

6•

The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

calendar

EssEx ArEA

Religious Directory

FeB. 15

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH - 61 Main St., Essex Jct., 878-8341. James Gangwer, pastor. Sunday School: 10 a.m., Worship Service: 11 a.m., Sunday evening worship: 6 p.m., Wednesday evening youth groups, Adult Bible study and prayer: 7 p.m.; FundamentalIndependent. CHRIST MEMORIAL CHURCH - Route 2A, Williston, just north of Industrial Ave. 878-7107. Wes Pastor, lead pastor, proclaiming Christ and Him crucified, Sundays: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., www.cmcvermont.org. COVENANT COMMUNITY CHURCH - 1 Whitcomb Meadows Lane, Essex Jct. 879-4313. Rev. Jeannette Conver, pastor. Adult bible class: 9 a.m., Sunday service: 10 a.m. with fellowship following. Infant through pre-K childcare provided, cccpastorjeannette@gmail.com; Facebook page: bit.ly/2rDz4NE DAYBREAk COMMUNITY CHURCH - 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester. 338-9118. Brent Devenney, lead pastor. Sunday service: 10:30 a.m., AWANA: Thursdays twice a month, www.daybreakvermont.org; brentdaybreak@gmail.com ESSEX ALLIANCE CHURCH - 37 Old Stage Road, Essex Jct. 878-8213. Sunday services: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. & 11:30 a.m., www.essexalliance.org. ESSEX CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - 119 Center Rd (Route 15), Essex. 878-8304. Rev. Mitchell Hay, pastor. Service 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. 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 plant spiritual roots. FIRST CONgREgATIONAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUNCTION - 1 Church Street, Essex Jct. 878-5745. Rev. Mark Mendes, senior pastor. Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Communion: first Sunday of every month. Sunday School: weekly at 10:15 a.m. 5th/6th Grade youth group: first Sunday of month. Jr. & Sr. high youth groups: every Sunday. Heavenly Food Pantry: second Monday of the month, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. and fourth Thursday, 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 Sanctuary Choir, Praise Band, Junior Choir, Cherub Choir, Handbell Choir, Men’s Acapella & Ladies’ Acapella groups. 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. www.fccej.org; welcome@fccej. org gRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - 130 Maple Street, Essex Jct., 1 mile south of the Five Corners on Maple Street / Route 117. 878-8071. Worship Sundays: 9:30 a.m., with concurrent church school pre-K to grade 6. Handicapped-accessible facility. Adult choir, praise band, women’s fellowship, missionally active. Korean U.M.C. worship Sundays: 12 p.m., come explore what God might be offering you! HOLY FAMILY - ST. LAwRENCE PARISH - St. Lawrence: 158 West St., Essex Jct. 878.5331. Saturday Vigil: 4:00 p.m.; Sunday Morning: 8:00 a.m. Holy Family: 36 Lincoln St., Essex Jct., Sundays: 11 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.hfslvt.org. MT. MANSFIELD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOwSHIP - 195 Vermont Route 15, Jericho, the red barn across from Packard Road. 899-2558. Services are held 9:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from September through June. Visit www.mmuuf. org. ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH - 4 St. James Place, Essex Jct., off Rt. 2A at the Fairgrounds Gate F. 8784014. Rev. Kim Hardy. Holy Eucharist, Sundays: 10 a.m. Visit www.stjamesvt.org; office@stjamesvt.com. ST. PIUS X CHURCH - 20 Jericho Road, Essex. 878-5997. Rev. Charles Ranges, pastor. Masses: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. & Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Confessions: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. or please call 878-5331 for an appointment.

sTock PhoTo

The Brownell Library is offering free tax help provided by the AARP for those over 60 years of age who also have less than $60k gross annual income. Each Thursday, there will be hour-long time slots that you can sign up for in advance. Sessions will be held Thursdays, Feb. 15 and 22. See listing for complete details.

15 Thursday aarP Free Tax helP

9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., Brownell Library. Tax help provided by volunteer AARP foundation certified tax preparers Tak and Dorothy Ng. This service is for taxpayers with less than $60k annual gross income, with special attention to those over 60 years old. If married, both spouses should (but do not have to) be present during an income tax counseling session. Qualified patrons will need to have received and make available all information and documents necessary. Relatively complex returns may be advised to seek professional assistance. Call 878-6955 or visit the library to make an hour-long appointment.

home school skaTing

Noon - 1 p.m., Essex Skating Facility, 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct. Come enjoy skating open to the home schooling families at our state-of-the-art community center. For times and rental information visit www.ewsd.org/ domain/130.

read To archie

3:15 - 4:15 p.m., Brownell Library. Archie loves to listen to kids read. He is certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Archie’s owner is Christine Packard, chair of Brownell Library Trustees.

16 Friday Preschool yoga 10 - 10:30 a.m., Brownell LIbrary. Come sing songs, hear stories and do yoga with Danielle. Ages 2 & up.

musical sTory Time

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. All ages.

lego cluB

3 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Build awesome creations with Legos!

Teen adVisory Board

3 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. "Peas come back" to plan for the

second annual Pun-Off! Wrap up the summer video logistics and "dig into" a snack to celebrate the groundhog. All 9-12 graders welcome.

magic: The gaThering

6 - 8 p.m., Brownell Library. Whether you know the game or are curious to find out more, come have tons of gaming fun!

kniT nighT

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Adult knitters and crocheters are invited to settle in front of the fireplace in the Main Reading Room to knit, share projects and patterns, and engage in conversation.

Family moVie: "groundhog day"

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. An obnoxious weatherman finds himself reliving the same 24-hour period over and over. Rated PG. Free popcorn and drink!

single adulTs' VolleyBall/game nighT

7 p.m., Essex Alliance Church Community Ctr., 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. Contact Sue at 999-5291 to RSVP.

17 saTurday BurlingTon Technical cenTer oPen house

9:30 a.m. - noon, 52 Institute Rd., Burlington. BTC will be holding an open house for students, parents and friends who are interested in BTC, a technical center serving local high school students, including some from EHS.

sTory Time

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Start off your weekend with books, rhymes and songs!

sTory Time

11 a.m., Phoenix Books Essex, 2 Carmichael St., Essex Jct. Enjoy timeless tales and new adventures with your little ones. Each week, we'll choose a new picture book, a classic or a staff favorite to read aloud together. Free.

sPongeBoB sToryTime WiTh James kochalka

11 a.m., Phoenix Books Burlington, 191 Bank St., Burlington. Join us for a SpongeBob story time with James Kochalka! James Kochalka’s offmodel, chibi-like short SpongeBob strips have entertained readers since SpongeBob Comics issue #1. Now, SpongeFunnies are busting out into a full-length ultracute epic story, “Skate the Cake!” If you like SpongeBob, Squidward, skateboards, cakes, volcanoes, deserts, and famous movie star “Duke McGill,” then you will love this story time! James Kochalka is the first cartoonist laureate of Vermont.

Preschool oPen gym

3 - 4:30 p.m., Building Bright Futures of Essex, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. Come run around inside during the cold winter months at our open gym, sponsored by the Essex Rotary. Free.

BurlingTon Technical cenTer oPen house

18 sunday grieF share suPPorT grouP

10 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Alliance Church, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. If you have lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, you are invited to attend. Weekly through May 13. For registration and information, contact Ron Caldwell; ron_caldwell@comcast. net.

WinTer Bridal shoW

11:30 a.m., Essex Resort and Spa, 70 Essex Way, Essex Jct. Meet and greet the area’s top wedding pros, taste amazing apps, listen to music and have fun in the photo booth! Sign up to win a slew of grand prizes (drawings at 1 & 2 p.m.) including gift

certificates to many vendors in the area with services geared towards making your big day as special as possible. For information call 4592897 or email judy@ vermontweddingassociation.com.

PuBlic skaTing

2 - 5:30 p.m., Essex Skating Facility, 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct. Come enjoy skating open to the public at our state-of-the-art community center. $3 students; $4 adults. Skate rentals available. For times visit www.ewsd.org/ domain/130.

diVorce care suPPorT grouP

5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Bluewater Ctr., 145 Pine Haven Shores Rd., Shelburne. Divorce is a tough road, but there is life afterward. Led by people who have already walked down that road, we'd like to share with you a safe place and a process that can help make the journey easier. Weekly through May 13. Call Sandy to register or for information at 4257053.

choral music oF richard sToehr

3 p.m., McCarthy Arts Center Recital Hall, St. Michael’s College, 1 Winooski Park, Colchester. Three of Vermont’s finest choral ensembles will join forces to perform the works of Richard Stoehr, including worldwide debuts of his choral works. Stoehr was a Viennese-trained composer who taught at St. Michael’s College after fleeing the Nazis. Donations accepted; visit www.smcvt.edu/ on-campus/events.aspx for more information.

19 monday ToWn and Village oFFices, senior cenTer, essex Free liBrary and BroWnell liBrary closed in oBserVance oF PresidenTs' day. discoVer girl scouTs

6 - 7 p.m, Founders Memorial School, 33 Founders Rd., Essex Jct. Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains

calendar loCal meetings thursday, feB. 15

6 p.m., village planning Commission, Lincoln Hall, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

tuesday, feB. 20

6:30 p.m., school Board, Essex High School Library, 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct.

thursday, feB. 22

6:30 p.m., Brownell library trustees, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

6:30 p.m., town planning Commission, Town offices, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.

will be holding an information session for girls and parents of girls who attend Essex Elementary School, Founders Memorial School, Hiawatha Elementary School, Summit Street School, and Thomas Fleming School. Girls and their families can meet local Girl Scouts and volunteers, learn about expanded STEM and outdoor programs, enjoy fun girl-led activities, explore programs and register to become a Girl Scout. Plus, girls will receive a free Discover Girl Scouts embroidered patch. Free; for more information visit www. girlscoutsgwm.org, or call (888) 474-9686.

book, a classic or a staff favorite to read aloud together.

Conversation with your representatives

6:30 - 8 p.m, Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. A community conversation with Rep. Dylan Giambatista and Rep. Lori Houghton. Ask questions of your representatives, learn what's happening in Montpelier and meet your neighbors.

20 tuesday story time for BaBies and toddlers 9:10 - 9:30 a.m., Brownell Library. For babies and toddlers with an adult.

story time for presChoolers

10 - 10:45 a.m, Brownell Library. Flannel stories and activities for preschoolers.

steam tuesday

3:15 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Create and explore with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. This week is "Light It Up Constellations"! Best for grades one and up.

teCh time with traCi

10 - 11 a.m., Essex Free Library. Need some tech help? Drop in with your device and your questions.

teCh help with Clif

Noon and 1 p.m., Brownell Library. Offering one on one technology help. Reservation required. Please call 878-6955 at least 24 hours in advance.

read to daisy

3 - 4 p.m., Brownell Library. Daisy loves to listen to kids read. She is certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Daisy’s owner is Maddie Nash, retired school counselor. For all ages. Please register online.

the art of lithuanian Knitting

6:30 p.m., Phoenix Books Essex, 2 Carmichael St., Essex Jct. Your ticket to knitter’s paradise awaits, and Donna Druchunas will be your guide! Join Donna, the author of "The Art of Lithuanian Knitting," for a discussion of the traditional art of Lithuanian knitwear and its modern applications. Donna is a writer and knitwear designer with passions for knitting, world travel and research. She has been visiting Lithuania, where her great-grandparents were born, every year since 2007. Free; all ages. 872-7111 or www.phoenixbooks.biz for more information.

first wednesday leCture (at uvm)

10 - 11:30 a.m., Sunset Studio, 71 Center Rd., Essex Jct. Free.

7 - 8:30 p.m., Ira Allen Chapel, University of Vermont, 26 University Pl., Burlington. From her long-running strip "Dykes to Watch Out For" to her family memoirs "Fun Home" and "Are You My Mother?," Alison Bechdel has explored in graphic detail the overlap between the personal and the political, the domestic and the global.In this illustrated talk, "Self-Confessed: The Comics of Alison Bechdel," she discusses how her cartooning has evolved. Please note the change in location.

story time for presChoolers

22 thursday

drop-in Knitting CluB 6:30 - 8 p.m., Essex Free Library. Bring in your current knitting project or start a new one in the company of fellow knitters!

21 wednesday BaBy playgroup

10 - 10:45 a.m, Brownell Library. Picture books, sign language, songs, rhymes, flannel stories and early math activities for preschoolers.

story time

10 a.m., Phoenix Books Essex, 2 Carmichael St., Essex Jct. Enjoy timeless tales and new adventures with your little ones. Each week, we'll choose a new picture

aarp free tax help

9:15 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., Brownell Library. (See Thursday, Feb. 15 for complete details.)

home sChool sKating

Noon - 1 p.m., Essex Skating Facility, 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct. Come enjoy skating open to the home

schooling families at our state-of-the-art community center. For times and rental information visit www.ewsd.org/ domain/130.

read to arChie

3:15 - 4:15 p.m., Brownell Library. Archie loves to listen to kids read. He is certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Archie’s owner is Christine Packard, chair of Brownell Library Trustees.

evening BooK group

6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Essex Free Library. Please join us for a discussion of "The Boston Girl" by Anita Diamant.

mt. mansfield sCale modelers

6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Kolvoord Community Room, Brownell Library. An informal gathering of scale model enthusiasts and model builders encompassing all areas of skill level. Show off projects, discuss modeling tips and techniques and gain inspiration from fellow modelers. Call 879-0765 after 6 p.m. for more information.

diversity training

7 p.m., Dion Family Student Center Roy Room, St. Michael's College, 1 Winooski Park, Colchester. Presenter Dr. Derek Rovaris, vice-provost of Louisiana State University and PhD, will present on diversity, and also working with participants to acquire important skills in working with people from diverse backgrounds.

essex Community players presents "douBt: a paraBle" 7:30 p.m., Essex Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. ECP is pleased to announce its winter production of John Patrick Shanley’s "Doubt: A Parable," a powerful and provocative drama of suspicion and certainty, of faith and distrust, of fact and conjecture set in the Bronx in 1964. In keeping with ECP’s “Essex Gives Back” charitable donation program, all monies from concession will be donated to the Chittenden Children’s Advocacy Center. Adults $18; seniors, $16. See essexplayers.com or call 878-9109 for ticket purchase and box office hours.

23 friday musiC with raph

10 - 10:30 a.m., Brownell Library. Come sing and play with Raph. All ages.

musiCal story time

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Rock out and read every Friday morning with books, songs and instruments. All ages.

larp

3 - 5 p.m., Brownell Library. Live Action Role Play is open to all middle and high school students who want to have adventures in a mythical land.

dungeons & dragons 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.,

February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 7

Brownell Library. Embark upon imaginary adventures. Dungeon Master serves as this role playing game’s referee and storyteller. For grades 6 and up.

Send event listings to calendar@essexreporter.com

essex Community players presents "douBt: a paraBle" 7:30 p.m., Essex Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. (See Thursday, Feb. 22 for complete details.)

24 saturday vermont roBotiCs Championship

10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Essex High School 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct. Teams from Vermont and beyond will converge at EHS to put their creations to the test performing tasks and solving puzzles.

weeKend story time

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Start off your weekend with books, rhymes and songs every Saturday morning!

story time

essex Community players presents "douBt: a paraBle"

D NATE Y UR S UFF Don’t pay to haul it away! We’ll pick it up for free Donate your new and gently used:

Housewares • Lighting • Furniture • Appliances Art • Kitchen Cabinets • Home Decor • Building Materials G r e e n M o u nt a i n

528 Essex Rd. (Rt. 2A) • Williston • 857-5296 • vermonthabitat.org Open Tues. - Fri. 10 - 6 | Sat. & Sun. 10 - 5

All revenue from donations and purchases support local, affordable home building.

Pets of the Week

7:30 p.m., Essex Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. (See Thursday, Feb. 22 for complete details.)

DOLORES 12 year old Spayed female Arrival Date: 1/9/2018 Breed: Domestic short hair – tortoise shell Reason here: I was found as a stray

25 sunday raBies vaCCine and miCroChip CliniC

9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Cosmos Cuts, 4 Southerberry Dr. #102, Milton. Several services will be available for your pet at this convenient clinic, including rabies vaccines provided by Mountainside Mobile Vet Clinic. All proceeds benefit Pibbles and More Animal Rescue. All cats must be in carriers and all dogs leashed. Event is cash only. Microchips, $20; rabies vaccine, $15; dog and cat distemper vaccines, $10; kennel cough vaccine, $10. Those interested must pre-register pets and services desired by contacting Carly Buswell at cboois94@aol.com.

grief share support group

10 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Alliance Church, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. (See Sunday, Feb. 18 for complete details.)

essex Community players presents "douBt: a paraBle"

2 p.m., Essex Memorial Hall, 5 Towers Rd., Essex Jct. (See Thursday, Feb. 22 for complete details.)

divorCe Care support group

5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Bluewater Ctr., 145 Pine Haven Shores Rd., Shelburne. (See Sunday, Feb. 18 for complete details.)

SUMMARY: Dolores is one lucky kitty! She was found frozen to a sleeping bag outside in the cold. When Animal Control arrived on scene, Dolores was not responsive and they thought that she was deceased. During her transport to HSCC, Dolores suddenly let out a loud MEOW! She was alive! Upon arrival, Dolores received some much needed fluids, food and medical care. Her paws were pretty badly injured and she was exhausted! It took her a week to start feeling better, but she is now starting to blossom and her purrsonality is showing! Dolores has shown us that she loves a good lap and that she is ready to be loved on by her new people.Dogs: Caramel has successfully met a dog at HSCC and may do well with others Cats: I have no known history with cats Dogs: I have no known history with dogs

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135

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ONE GOLDEN BATTERY PACKS (2)PA 29”. Comes with six PUREBRED, (4), three est rates. MOMENT, for lights. $20. Leave a males, one female. CallSkil us 14.4 at: Volt. 2 for a recorded Bible at 9:00AM. FAIRFAX, JUICER,HOUSEBREVILLE $25. Leave message: at Auction! BIBLE message: 802-582Black with white collar, $55. Call 802-527-7066 802-863-5397 or avisit message. 300+/- Cars! MATE,FOUNTAIN 1 bedroom with AUTO Plus in 802-582-2120 Saturday, ROCKER, CHILD’S 2120 white changed feet, and blaze after 4:00pm. LafayettePaintingInc. Messages RENTALS Online Bidding MESSAGE own bath, livnearlyshared new condition, February 17th SMALL, light colored, Vacuum/Carpet down AUCTION com daily.the face. Tails Children’s Items Available. PILLOW, NEW, BAMing room, kitchen and complete with manual. HOUSEMATE at 9:00AM. solid wood. In great Cleaners docked/dewclaws and for your free estimate. Telephone: & Toys 298 J. Brown Drive BOO breathable, jumgarage.$55. Lots room Callof802-527-7066 300+/- Cars! condition. $25. Call first worming. Ready to VACUUM CLEANER, Williston bo with removable case 802-735-0160 SEAT, inside CAR and4:00pm. outside. CHILafter Online Bidding 802-527-7066 after go 2/13/18. $500. 802DATA Metro, comes in 1-800-474-6132 for washing. Measures DREN’S, in Available 2/15/18. Britax, 802Children’s Items Available. 4:00pm. 323-4064 carrying box. $20. THCAuction.com PAID 17” X 33”. $20. Call PAID good condition. $75. 578-6157 S FILL ADS & Toys 298 J. Brown Drive Leave a message: 802Equipment/ FAIRFAX, HOUSE802-527-7066 after 802-355-5030 Pet Supplies ADS ADS Williston CAR SEAT, CHIL582-2120 Machinery MATE, 1 bedroom with 4:00pm CAR SEAT,Britax, INFANT, 1-800-474-6132 RENTALS DREN’S, in own bath, shared liv-LARGE ONE GOLDEN FLOOR JACK, IN DOG BED, HAPPY NEW YEAR VACUUM, KIRBY Bid to Buy Bid to Buy s Bauer, in good condiAppliances THCAuction.com good condition. $75. Miscellaneous ing room, kitchen and conMOMENT, great shape, works your Next sized. in excellent from$50. 802-355- your Next Ride HOUSEMATE SENTRIA, upright Ride tion. 802-355-5030 garage.dition, Lots of a recorded Bible great. $50. 802-582- atSAWMILLS VILLELafayette JUICER, BREVILLE tworoom stainless clean and carpet shamat Auction! Auction! FROM 5030 Painting! BIBLEPlus in inside steel and feeding outside. bowls, message. AUTO CAR SEAT, 8450 us Winter in FOUNTAIN is a great time INFANT, to pooing system. $125. Saturday, Saturday, ONLY $4,397. -MAKE AUTO ONE GOLDEN ROCKER, CHILD’S Available 2/15/18. 802- size Messages changed Bauer, in good condindition, nearly new condition, ramp, and x-large freshen up your living Leave a message: 802MESSAGE February 17th February 17th & SAVE MONEY with AUCTION AUCTION MOMENT, lightcurcolored, Furniture 578-6157 daily. tion. 802-355manual. complete with manual. coat with reflective space SMALL, and we$50. are 582-2120 at 9:00AM. atyour 9:00AM. own bandmill-Cut SERVICES a recorded Bible solid wood. In great Telephone: 5030 7-7066 $55. BIBLE Call 802-527-7066 tabs. $40. Call 802rently offering our low300+/- Cars! 300+/Cars! lumber any dimension. RECLINER, IN GREAT message. condition. $25. CallPAINTING Wanted to Buy 802-735-0160 after 4:00pm. 527-7066 after 4:00pm. est rates. Bidding ROCKER, CHILD’S Online Bidding In stock ready to ship! shape, $25. 802-582- Online Messages changed 802-527-7066 after MESSAGE HAPPY NEW YEAR Call us at: ems Available. Children’s Items Available. SMALL, light colored, FREE info/DVD: 8450 PUPPY COATS (2), BUYING ANTIQUES daily. 4:00pm. or visit from 802-863-5397 & Toys 298 J. Brown Drive solid wood. In great 298 J. Brown Drive www.Norwood Pupcrew, winter, navy Complete households, Telephone: Lafayette Painting! Equipment/ FAIRFAX, HOUSEFurnishings LafayettePaintingInc. Williston Williston condition. $25. Call Sawmills.com CHILblue color, matching. CAR SEAT, CHILmost anything old/of 802-735-0160 Winter is a great time to Machinery after 1-800-474-6132 MATE, 1 bedroom with com 1-800-474-6132 802-527-7066 1-800-567-0404 x, in $20 for both. Leave DREN’S, Britax, in good quality. 45+ years RENTALS MEDICINE CABINET, freshen up your living own bath, shared livFLOOR JACK, IN THCAuction.com for your free estimate. THCAuction.com 4:00pm. Ext. 300N $75. a message: 802-582good condition. $75. buying! Fair prices BATHROOM Three space and we are curing room, kitchen and HOUSEMATE great shape, works SERVICES 2120 802-355-5030 paid! Equipment/ FAIRFAX, HOUSEglass mirror doors, 3ft x rently offering our lowgarage. Lots of room great. $50. 802-582Pets Call Ed Lambert Machinery MATE, 1 bedroom with PAINTING FANT, 29”. Comes with six CAR SEAT, INFANT, est rates. inside and outside. 8450 Tools/Accessories RENTALS ONEBOXER GOLDEN PUPPIES, 802-528-5651 or own bath, shared livFLOOR JACK, IN ONE GOLDEN condilights. $20. Leave a Bauer, in good condiCall us at: Available 2/15/18. 802MOMENT, MOMENT, 802-782-1223 ing room, kitchen and HOUSEMATE great Furniture shape, works PUREBRED, (4), three 2-355message: 802-582tion. $50. 802-355BATTERY PACKS (2) 802-863-5397 or visit 578-6157 a recorded Bible St. Albans garage. Lots of room great. $50. 802-582- a recorded Bible males, one female. 2120 5030 for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for LafayettePaintingInc. BIBLE BIBLE message. message. RECLINER, IN GREAT inside and outside. 8450 Black with white collar, $25. Leave a message: FREON R12 WANTcom HILD’S PILLOW, NEW, BAMROCKER, CHILD’S Messages shape, $25. 802-582- Messages changed MESSAGE Available 2/15/18. 802MESSAGE whitechanged feet, and blaze 802-582-2120 ED: CERTIFIED BUYfor your free estimate. HAPPY NEW YEAR olored, BOO breathable, jumSMALL, light colored, daily. daily. the face. Tails Furniture 8450 Email our editor at news@essexreporter.com 578-6157from down ER will PAY CA$H for Vacuum/Carpet great bo with removable case solid wood. In great Telephone: Telephone: docked/dewclaws and R12 cylinder or cases Lafayette Painting! Cleaners Call RECLINER, IN GREAT for washing. Measures 802-735-0160 condition. $25. Call Furnishings 802-735-0160 first worming. Ready to of cans. (312) 291Winter is a great time to after shape, $25. 802-58217” X 33”. $20. Call 802-527-7066 after VACUUM CLEANER, HAPPY NEW YEAR go 2/13/18. $500. 802MEDICINE CABINET, 9169; freshen up your living 8450 802-527-7066 after 4:00pm. DATA Metro, comes in from 323-4064 BATHROOM Three www.refrigerant space and we are cur4:00pm carrying box. $20. SERVICES t/ FAIRFAX, HOUSEEquipment/ FAIRFAX, HOUSELafayette Painting! TOWN OFdoors, ESSEX Furnishings glass mirror 3ft xPLANNING COMMISSION finders.com rently offering our lowLeave a message: 802y MATE, 1 bedroom with Machinery MATE, 1 bedroom with Pet Supplies Winter is a great time to AGENDA - PUBLIC HEARING PAINTING Miscellaneous 29”. Comes with six est rates. RENTALS RENTALS 582-2120 own bath, shared livown bath, shared livK, IN MEDICINE MARCH CABINET, FLOOR JACK, IN freshen up your living lights. $20. Leave a8, 2018 - 6:30 P.M. Call us at: DOG BED, ing room, kitchenROOM, and HOUSEMATE ing room, kitchen andLARGE works BATHROOM Three SAWMILLS FROM great shape, works VACUUM, KIRBY space and we are curHOUSEMATE MUNICIPAL CONFERENCE SERVICES message: 802-582802-863-5397 or visit sized. in excellent congarage. Lots of room garage. Lots of room 2-582glass mirror doors, 3ft x ONLY $4,397. -MAKE great. $50. 802-582SENTRIA, upright rently offering our low81 MAIN ST., ESSEX JCT., VT 2120 LafayettePaintingInc. two stainless inside and outside. PAINTING inside dition, and outside. 29”. Comes with six & SAVE MONEY with 8450 clean and carpet shamest rates. com steel feeding 1. Amendments to Agenda (if applicable) PILLOW, NEW, BAMAvailable 2/15/18. 802Available 2/15/18. 802- bowls, lights. $20. Leave a your own bandmill-Cut pooing system. $125. Call us at: for your free estimate. ramp, and x-large size BOO breathable, jum-578-6157 Furniture 578-6157 2. Public Comments message: 802-582lumber any dimension. Leave a message: 802802-863-5397 or visit coat with reflective bo with removable case 2120 In stock ready to ship! 582-2120 LafayettePaintingInc. 3. Consent Agenda: GREAT RECLINER, IN GREAT tabs. $40. Call 802for washing. Measures FREE info/DVD: com PILLOW, NEW, BAM2-582- • 17” shape, $25. 802-582527-7066 after 4:00pm. SIMPLE BOUNDARY X 33”.PARCEL $20. Call Wanted to Buy HAPPY NEWADJUSTMENT-James, YEAR NEW YEAR www.Norwood HAPPY for your free estimate. BOO & breathable, jum8450 Sandra Charles Bosley: Proposal 802-527-7066 after from to subdivide the property from PUPPY COATS (2), Sawmills.com r bo with BUYING ANTIQUES located at removable 245 & 257case Lost Lafayette Nation Road in the Conservation (C1) -time o 4:00pm Part1-800-567-0404 Painting! Lafayette Painting! Pupcrew, winter, navy s Furnishings for washing. Complete households, Very Flexible Zoning District.Measures Tax Map 13, Parcel 7, Lots & 6. Winter is a great time4 to Winter is a great time to blue color, matching. s! 300N leExt. 17” Miscellaneous X 33”. $20. Call most anything old/of BINET, • SIMPLE MEDICINE freshen up SUBDIVISION-Reed your living freshen $20 up your living Leave PARCEL TWO LOT and -time Schedu for both. ullCABINET, F 802-527-7066 after good quality. 45+ years Three Anna Three BATHROOM ts Pets space and we are curif von Gal: Proposal to subdivide their 9.93 acre property at space and we are curh S a message: 802-582SAWMILLS FROM SERVICES end SERVICES k e 4:00pm e buying! Fair prices W & g s, 3ft x 63ONLY in glass mirror doors, 3ft x Old Stage Road to create one new building lot. Lot # 1 will n rently offering our lowrently offering Eve 2120 our low$4,397. -MAKE BOXER PUPPIES, paid! PAINTING PAINTING th six be&1.01acres, and encompass the existing farmhouse with an ac29”. Comes with six est rates. est rates. Miscellaneous es SAVE MONEY with ag e WPUREBRED, (4), three Call Ed Lambert itiv et p apartment. m Tools/Accessories ave a cessory o lights. $20. Leave a C Call us at: Call us at: your own bandmill-Cut males, one female. 802-528-5651 or SAWMILLS FROM802-863-5397 or visit 2-582message: 802-582- iscount 802-863-5397 or visit lumber any dimension. BATTERY PACKS (2) ous D Black with white collar, 802-782-1223 er 4. FINAL SUBDIVISION AMENDMENT-PUBLIC HEARINGen G ONLY $4,397. -MAKE 2120 LafayettePaintingInc. LafayettePaintingInc. In stock ready to ship! rkers for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for o whiteerfeet, and blaze w o St. Albans Allen Brook Development Inc. c/o Alcom Senecal: Proposal to shorten C & s & SAVE MONEY with m o the face. Tails com BAMPILLOW, NEW, FREE info/DVD: EST Custdown $25. Leave a message: Red Pine Circle 90 ft. free the reconfiguration will effect he BBAMT your own approximately bandmill-Cut FREON R12 WANTfor your estimate. for your free estimate. e, jumBOO breathable, jumlots 2-6lumber in www.Norwood the Resource Preservation-Industrial District(RPD-I). Tax 802-582-2120 docked/dewclaws and any dimension. ED: CERTIFIED BUYe case bo with removable case Sawmills.com Map 72,InParcel 12, Lots 1-6. first worming. Ready to Vacuum/Carpet stock ready to ship! ER will PAY CA$H for asures for washing. Measures 1-800-567-0404 go 2/13/18. $500. 802Cleaners FREE info/DVD: R12 cylinder or cases 0. Call 17” X 33”. $20. Call 5. SITE PLAN AMENDMENT-PUBLIC HEARING-Allen Brook Ext. 300N 323-4064 www.Norwood VACUUM CLEANER, of cans. (312) 291after Development Inc. c/o Al Senecal: Proposal to shift the approved lot 802-527-7066 after Sawmills.com DATA Metro, comes in 9169; Pets #5 layout approximately 35’ to the west along Red Pine Circle and Pet Supplies 4:00pm carrying box. $20. www.refrigerant to relocate 1-800-567-0404 3 parking spaces on the property located at 131 Red Pine BOXER PUPPIES, Ext. 300N Leave a message: 802DOG BED, LARGE us Circle in finders.com Miscellaneous the Resource Preservation-Industrial District (RPD-I). Tax (4),5.three PUREBRED, 582-2120 sized. in excellent conMap 72, Parcel 12, Lot FROM Pets female. males, one SAWMILLS FROM dition, two stainless VACUUM, KIRBY MAKE 6. Minutes: 25, collar, 2017 Black January with white ONLY $4,397. -MAKE steel feeding bowls, BOXER PUPPIES, SENTRIA, upright Y with white feet, and blaze & SAVE MONEY with ramp, and x-large size PUREBRED, (4), three clean and carpet sham7. Other Business: mill-Cut down the face. Tails your own bandmill-Cut coat with reflective males, one female. File Folders pooing system. $125. ension. • PC docked/dewclaws and lumber any dimension. tabs. $40. Call 802Black with white collar, Leave a message: 802o ship! first worming. Ready to at www.essex.org to view agendas, In stock ready to ship! Note: Please visit our 527-7066 after 4:00pm. white feet, andwebsite blaze 582-2120 go 2/13/18. $500. FREE info/DVD: application and 802minutes. You may visit the office to review downmaterials, the face. Tails PUPPY COATS (2), od materials 323-4064 www.Norwood or discuss any proposal with staff. We are located at 81 Main Wanted to Buy docked/dewclaws and Pupcrew, winter, navy om Street; second Sawmills.com floor (7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.). first worming. Ready to blue color, matching. Pet Supplies BUYING ANTIQUES 404 1-800-567-0404 Members the public are802encouraged to speak at the meeting when go of 2/13/18. $500. $20 for both. Leave Complete households, Ext. 300N DOG BED, LARGE recognized by the chair. 323-4064 a message: 802-582most anything old/of This meeting be recorded sized. inwill excellent con- by Channel 17 and live streamed 2120 Pets good quality. 45+ years (YouTube) Supplies dition,Pettwo stainless buying! Fair prices PPIES, Tools/Accessories BOXER PUPPIES, steel feeding bowls, DOG BED, LARGE paid! , three PUREBRED, (4), three ramp, and x-large size SPR18_STAlb Mess_DC_Feb21.indd 1 1/31/18 1:41 PM sized. in excellent conCall Ed Lambert BATTERY PACKS (2) emale. males, one female. coat with reflective dition, two stainless 802-528-5651 or for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for collar, Black with white collar, tabs. $40. Call 802steel feeding bowls, 802-782-1223 $25. Leave a message: blaze white feet, and blaze 527-7066 after 4:00pm. ramp, and x-large size St. Albans 802-582-2120 . Tails down the face. Tails PUPPY COATS (2), coat with reflective Vacuum/Carpet FREON R12 WANTs and docked/dewclaws and Pupcrew, tabs. $40.winter, Call navy 802Cleaners ED: CERTIFIED BUYeady to first worming. Ready to blue color, matching. 527-7066 after 4:00pm. ER will PAY CA$H for 0. 802VACUUM CLEANER, go 2/13/18. $500. 802CROSSING GUARD $20 for both. Leave PUPPY COATS (2), R12 cylinder or cases DATA Metro, comes in 323-4064 a message: 802-582The Essex Westford School District has a Pupcrew, winter, navy of cans. (312) 291carrying box. $20. 2120 part-time position available to safely cross es Pet Supplies blue color, matching. 9169; Leave a message: 802students in the Essex Junction community. $20 for both. Leave www.refrigerant 582-2120 Building a community where everyone participates and everyone belongs. Tools/Accessories We haveDOG one morning (approximately ARGE BED, shift LARGE a message: 802-582finders.com 7:25-8:10) available at the corner of Lincoln VACUUM, KIRBY nt consized. in excellent conBATTERY PACKS (2) 2120 Terrace dition, and School PositionSENTRIA, pays upright ainless two Street. stainless for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for CCS is an intimate, person centered developmental service provider with a strong $22.52 per hour.feeding bowls, clean and carpet shambowls, steel Tools/Accessories $25. Leave a message: emphasis on employee and consumer satisfaction. We would love to have you as part of pooing system. $125. ge size ramp, and x-large size the team. 802-582-2120 For coat consideration, please apply Leave at BATTERY PACKS (2) a message: 802lective with reflective www.schoolspring.com (Job ID 2891013) Vacuum/Carpet DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for 582-2120 802tabs. $40. Call 802or stop by to complete an application: Cleaners $25. Leave a message: :00pm. 527-7066 after 4:00pm. Enjoy each workday while providing one on one inclusion supports to a variety of individuals Wanted to Buy VACUUM CLEANER, 802-582-2120 with developmental & intellectual disabilities. This is a great opportunity to make a difference S (2), PUPPY COATS (2), Essex Westford School District ToToadvertise your DATA Metro, comes in advertise your in someone’s life while working in a supportive, person centered environment. We are Vacuum/Carpet , navy BUYING ANTIQUES Pupcrew, winter, navy 51 Park Street carrying box. $20. listings contact currently hiring for several, benefitted positions as well as per diem shifts. listings contact Cleaners tching. Complete households, blue color, matching. Essex Jct., VT 05452 Leave atoday! message: 802your rep Leave VACUUM CLEANER, most anything old/of Join our team! Submit your letter of interest and resume to: yourad ad rep today! $20 for both. Leave 582-2120 802-878-5282 2-582DATA Metro, comes in good quality. 45+ years a message: 802-582802-524-9771 Karen Ciechanowicz, staff@ccs-vt.org. VACUUM, carrying box. KIRBY $20. buying! Fair prices 2120 Casey Toof x 125 SENTRIA, upright Michael Snook x x208 Leave a message: 802paid! George Berno 103 www.ccs-vt.org CUSTODIAL ories clean and carpet shamTools/Accessories snook@essexreporter.com casey.toof@samessenger.com 582-2120 Call Ed Lambert george@samessenger.com pooing system. $125. E.O.E 802-528-5651 or POSTION VACUUM, KIRBY KS (2) BATTERY PACKS (2) Leave a message: 802802-782-1223 Full Time SENTRIA, upright t. 2 for for Skil 14.4 Volt. 2 for 582-2120 St. Albans clean and carpet shamssage: $25. Leave a message:

8•

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nearly new condition, February 17th The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018 your Next Ride complete with manual.

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pooing system. $125. Wanted to Buy Leave a message: 802BUYING ANTIQUES 582-2120 Complete households, ANER, to Buy mostWanted anything old/of mes in good quality. 45+ years BUYING ANTIQUES $20. buying! Fair prices CompleteDREAMING households, e: 802OF LIVING ON THE LAKE? paid! most anything old/of Being able to Ed justLambert wander from your back yard and go ice fishing Call COLCHESTER DUPLEX take the kayak quality. 45+ years COOL CONTEMPORARY along good with many other activities...maybe KIRBY 802-528-5651 orwinter Fair time? prices out in buying! the summer Stop daydreaming and outfloor this Located in Essex, this home will satisfy all your needs. versatile Excellent condition inside and out. 2nd floor unitAcheck over 1100 sq. upright 802-782-1223 amazing Colonial inyour the lifestyle, Maplewood Shores neighborhood!! This ft. Both offer 3Albans bedrooms, full bath, largekitchen eat-in kitchens plan to paid! accommodate wonderful with granitefully and shamSt. home boasts access to Lake Arrowhead. Milton - $314,900. Callprivate Ed applianced plus laundry. One-half acre lot. occupied S/S appliances. TwoLambert story vaulted ceiling living roomOwner with woodstove, $125. FREON R12 WANTCarol Audette, CRS, 802-528-5651 or available. a great opportunity. amazing master suite, loft and more. 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 car e: 802ED: 802-782-1223 CERTIFIED BUY802-846-8800, Offered at $325,000. garage and more! Offered at for $429,000. www.carolaudette.com ER willSt.PAY CA$H Albans carol@carolaudette.com Audette, Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman R12 cylinderCRS, or cases uy Carol Carol Audette 846-8800 | www.carolaudette.com FREON R12| (802) WANT802--846-8800 of cans. (312) 291- www.carolaudette.com ED: CERTIFIED BUYColdwell Banker Hickok & Boardman Realty carol@carolaudette.com QUES 9169; ER will PAY CA$H for eholds, www.refrigerant R12 cylinder or cases old/of finders.com of cans. (312) 291+ years 9169; prices www.refrigerant finders.com bert

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R12 WANT802-582-2120 Fairfax Town SchoolFREON ED: CERTIFIED BUYVacuum/Carpet ER will PAY CA$H for is lookingCleaners to fill a full time R12 cylinder or cases VACUUM CLEANER, Custodial position for the of cans. (312) 291DATA Metro, comes in 9169; evening carrying box. shift. $20. www.refrigerant message: 802IfLeave youaare interested finders.com 582-2120 please call: VACUUM, KIRBY SENTRIA, upright 802-849-0713 and carpet shamforclean more information. pooing system. $125. Leave a message: 802582-2120 Wanted to Buy

HERE

BUYING ANTIQUES Complete households, most anything old/of good quality. 45+ years buying! Fair prices paid! Call Ed Lambert 802-528-5651 or 802-782-1223 St. Albans

FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinder or cases of cans. (312) 2919169; www.refrigerant finders.com

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ESSEX POLICE REPORTS Feb. 5 - 11 Monday, Feb. 5

4:31 a.m., Suspicious on Jericho Rd. 9:26 a.m., Lost/Found Property on Central St. 11:01 a.m., Disorderly Conduct on Park St. 11:09 a.m., MV Complaint on Pearl St. 1:08 p.m., Suspicious on Brickyard Rd. 4:55 p.m., Burglary on Woods End Dr. 10:37 p.m., Noise Disturbance on Sand Hill Rd.

Tuesday, Feb. 6

2:57 a.m., Disorderly Conduct on River St. 11:39 a.m., Vandalism on Pearl St. 3:40 p.m., Passing School Bus on Founders Rd. 3:42 p.m., Suspicious on Gentes Rd.

Emergency: 911 • Non-emergency: 878-8331 • 145 Maple St., Essex Jct., VT 05452 • www.epdvt.org

4:35 p.m., Intoxicated Person on Grove St. 5:30 p.m., Suspicious on Upland Rd. 7:09 p.m., Noise Disturbance on Colchester Rd. 8:43 p.m., Suspicious on Rustic Dr. 10:54 p.m., Suspicious on Thompson Dr.

Wednesday, Feb. 7

8:31 a.m., Vandalism on Carmichael St. 10:54 a.m., MV Complaint on Greenfield Rd. 1:27 p.m., COR Violation on Upper Main St. 2:22 p.m., Animal Problem on Brickyard Rd. 3:20 p.m., Suspicious on Pearl St. 4:59 p.m., Unsecure Premises on Main St. 5:34 p.m., Citizen Dispute on Pearl St. 5:52 p.m., Motorist Assistance on I-289 6:44 p.m., Welfare Check on Pearl St.

10:01 p.m., Theft on Grove St.

Thursday, Feb. 8

2:39 a.m., Impounded Vehicle on Maple St. 7:54 a.m., Vandalism on Willey’s Ct. 10:36 a.m., Property Damage on Susie Wilson Rd. 1:10 p.m., Utility Problem on Susie Wilson Rd. 2:17 p.m., Family Disturbance on Maple St. 3:57 p.m., Larceny from MV on Park Ave. 5:15 p.m., Animal Problem on Central St. 6:02 p.m., Lost/Found Property on Maple St. 6:55 p.m., Intoxicated Person on Railroad Ave. 8:09 p.m., Animal Problem on Brickyard Rd.

9:48 p.m., Animal Problem on Railroad Ave.

Friday, Feb. 9

4:27 a.m., Suspicious on Essex Way 10:07 a.m., LSA on Essex Way 10:24 a.m., Larceny on Gauthier Dr. 5:18 p.m., LSA on Morse Dr. 8:45 p.m., Suspicious on Upper Main St. 11:46 p.m., DLS on Upper Main St.

saTurday, Feb. 10

6:21 a.m., Property Damage on West St. 9:15 a.m., MV Complaint on Susie Wilson Rd. 9:26 a.m., Larceny from MV on Mason Dr. 9:38 a.m., Suspicious on Tamarack Dr. 10:13 a.m., Simple Assault on Pine Ct 11:42 a.m., Family Disturbance on Maple St.

12:58 p.m., Noise Disturbance on Franklin St. 4:09 p.m., Family Disturbance on Taft St. 9:10 p.m., Motorist Assistance on I-289 11:57 p.m., Family Disturbance on S Summit St.

sunday, Feb. 11

1:47 p.m., Suspicious on Susie Wilson Rd. 3:59 p.m., Family Disturbance on Depot St. 9:41 p.m., MV Complaint on I-289 11:22 p.m., Suspicious on Maple St.

TickeTs issued: 8 Warnings issued: 25 Fire/eMs calls dispaTched: 55

This log represents a sample of incidents in the date range. For more information, call the non-emergency number: 878-8331

10 •

The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

sports

Hornets basketball stays dangerous in the Pink Zone

PHOTOS BY KYLE ST. PETER

RIGHT: The Hornets' girls sport as much pink clothing as possible for their Pink Zone game against South Burlington the past Friday night. The event benefitted the Breast Care Center at UVMMC. BOTTOM LEFT to RIGHT: Rachel Botala pushes tries to gain position on a South Burlington defender. Coach Shawn Montague discusses strategy with senior Olivia Duncan and Botala on their way to a 52-39 win. Look for more photos, and in color, online at essexreporter.com.

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Last week was busy with sports. Two winter state titles were decided along with some NVAC battles. More contests this week to keep all involved and entertained highlighted by the gymnasts competing in states this coming Saturday. If you stand up tall you can spot the end of the regular season approaching. Pink Zone games were another success, Essex connection in Vermont HOF, the Winter Olympics have begun and I covered a UCONN women’s basketball game for the first time, as well. Congratulations to the track and field team and coaches on their second place finishes at the indoor state meet. The new venue at UVM has been a success; friendly, accommodating and closer than the previous host, Norwich. The D-II meet was Friday night and D-I athletes competed Saturday. The Hornets were second to St. Johnsbury in both meets. The boys scored 105 points to edge Mt. Mansfield Unioin by a point but ended a point and a half behind St. J. South Burlington was fourth at 87.5 as the meet came down to the final event – the mile relay! The gals totaled 104 to the Hilltoppers 230 with SB and Mt. Anthony Union third and fourth.

NASCAR... drifting into our SPORTS pages next week

The Pink Zone night for the girls basketball teams was a huge win for all involved, especially for the Breast Care Center at the Larner College of Medicine at UVM. Coaches, players, parents and fans all contributed to the successful evening. Our cheerleaders were amazing, the volunteers tireless and community support was so much MORE than outstanding. After a tight first half, the Chargers bested their up-town rival Eagles 45-28 in a fine display of middle school/junior high hoop. The JV’s, now 14-2 after two wins last week, edged the Wolves 40-37 in game two. The varsity, after drubbing Spaulding earlier in the week, went on a ten-zip run to start the game and led throughout in a satisfying revenge win by a score of 52-39, pushing their record to 10-6 inching back up the D-I rankings. Congratulations to the cheerleaders for capturing the NVAC cheer competition in SB a couple of weeks ago. Reports stated Hornets earned first places in Metro Division, first in Elite top gun stunts, Large Varsity Champions, and finally Grand Champions. State competition is Saturday at Vergennes high school. Come out and support the team. The wrestlers continue to have heavy duty success this winter. After a midweek 49-12 W over Milton, the Hornets flexed their

muscles at home on Saturday. Essex repeated as NVAC Championships capturing the 2017-2018 meet in fine fashion. Impressive results look like this: in the Quarterfinals Essex shutout Williamstown 66-0; the Semifinals saw the Hornets defeat Milton again 60-12 leading to the finals, where they defeated St. Johnsbury 44-35 to go back-to-back as NVAC Champs! Congrats to all. JV states this weekend in Barre. States next week at Otter Valley high school. Our boys’ varsity basketball team is 3-11 following a couple of loses to Rice and BHS. In the latter game vs the ‘Horses, Hunter Smith and Stephen Astor led the Hornets on the score sheet. The JV’s are 8-6, losing twice last week to Rice 64-46 and to BHS 47-43. Road games at MMU and St. J this week. The girls’ JV-B hoop team is now 13-0 as they demolished two more opponents last week. They drilled Rutland 60-7 and North Country 41-17. One game left vs Milton Thursday. The frosh boys are 14-1 notching wins over Rutland and St. J in the first round of the BFA End-Of-Season Jamboree, then played in the second round/championship game. They end their season this week vs MMU. The boys’ hockey team lost a tough match to BFA 5-2 early in the week and bounced back in fine fashion with a 7-2 win over SB. Grady Cram scored twice and had an assist while Jonah Janaro scored 1 goal with 2 assists. Willem Barwin, Jared Almeida,

Maverick King and Gordon Schmalz added goals. GK Ben LaPlant stopped 16 shots as the Hornets are now 11-3 trailing only the Bobwhites in D-I. U-32, SHS, and Rutland are up this week. Have you been following our girls’ hockey team? Going to their games? If you have, then you know they are the best team in D-I with a 13-3 record after 3 more wins last week none bigger than their 3-0 win, not upset, of then #1 ranked BFA. They host Rice this Saturday at 4:30 p.m. in their only game of the week, so how about packing the stands and supporting the hottest high school team on ice? P.S. During their eight gamewinning streak, the girls have allowed only six goals. The gymnastic team scored their highest point total of the season. Their 140.0 pts in the win over SB the Hornets served notice to CVU in this week’s state final. Results can be seen in the scoreboard. The bowlers placed first in their third straight match last week in their penultimate tune-up for states next month. The Hornets beat Fair Haven, Hartford and BHS. Alex Prim led Essex bowling a great series with 436. Ben Sawyer, Makenna Thorne, and Emily Harvey also bowled well. Tyler Elias set a PR with his 214. Condolences to the Coutrayer family on the death of George Coutrayer, who was an EHS basketball fan and supporter his entire life; the Dunbar’s on the passing of George Dunbar, who gave years of his life to the Village; and the Laverty’s remembering Richard Laverty, Dad to EHS track and field stars Kevin, Jeanne and Stacey who attended all meets with his wife supporting his very talented children. Happy Birthday Becca Olsen Bailey, Chelsea Zelko, VSOA ref and retired teacher Mike Clark, Kasey Greene, Kristen Rauer Mullen and never-aging Tonya Gramatzki Digangi. Special congrats shoutouts to Melba Masse on her induction into the Vt. Sports Hall of Fame and to Junction lawyer Dave Barra on his judicial appointment. Remembering in-laws Terry and Ed Bechtel and parents Don and Rosemary Gonillo who shared the same anniversary last Sunday. Would have been 72 and 62 years.

February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 11

Athlete of the week

ESSEX HIGH SCHOOL'S

ATHLETES OF THE

WEEK

PrESEnTEd by

the essex

HornETS VArSiTy ScorEboArd

RepoRteR

Boys' BasketBall (3-8) 2/6 2/9

rice memorial Burlington

l 79-89 l 44-58

GIRls' BasketBall (10-7) 2/9 2/12

south Burlington st. Johnsbury

GyMnastIcs 2/8

south Burlington

W 52-39 l 40-57

(7-1)

W 140 - 82.3

Vault: (1-t) mya dusablon and allie green 8.6; (3) ella lesny, 8.5 Bars: (1) allie green, 8.9; (2) mya dusablon 8.8; (3) emilee Friedman, 8.4 Beam: (1) allie green 9.45; (2) mya dusablon, 9.2; (3) anna Charland, 9.15 Floor: (1) allie green, 9.1; (2) mya dusablon, 9; abbey gleason, 8.7 all-arOund: (1) allie green, 36.05; (2) mya dusablon, 35.6; abbey gleason 34.1

Boys Hockey (11-3) 2/10

south Burlington

W 7-2

GIRls Hockey (13-3) 2/8 2/10

CHarLES

BFa st. albans rutland

W 3-0 W 3-0

IndooR tRack and FIeld

martell FILE PHOTO BY BEN CHIAPPINELLI

Sophomore Nordic skiier Charles Martell raced his way to a third overall

2/10 Vermont State Meet at UVM, 2nd place finish, 105 pts. state Champions Boys: Jacob rigoli - shot put, 49'9" michael Baker - pole vault, 11'6" state Champions girls: hannah neddo - high jump, 5'2" lizzie martell - 600m, 1:42.50 maria Campo - shot Put, 32' 1/2"

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12 •

The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

bridal 2018

By the power vested in me Essex accountant-turned-officiant performs hundreds of weddings By MICHAELA HALNON

COURTESY PHOTO

Essex resident Pat Johnson has married hundreds of couples since founding Lotus Ministries more than a decade ago.

ESSEX ATRIUM GARDENS

PONDS AT BOLTON VALLEY

at Johnson was relaxing at her sister’s house one day in 2005 when a video of a relative’s recent wedding ceremony brought her to tears. “It brought me so much joy to see all of these people who were relaxed and fun and everything was loving,” Johnson said. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I need something like that in my life.’” Johnson, an Essex resident and accountant by trade, resolved to begin building a side gig that would bring her joy in retirement. More than a decade later, she’s joined hundreds of couples in holy matrimony through her company Lotus Ministries. “This is what I needed to do for happiness in my life,” Johnson said. “There was a lot of stress [and] it was serious all the time. Now, on weekends and a few days during the week, I get to be with happy people and fulfill their needs.”

groom held their wedding at Roxy Cinemas in Burlington. Johnson added to their “Princess Bride” wedding theme by adopting an exaggerated lisp as she performed the ceremony, she recalled through hysterical laughter. “Here we were, people had come from long distances for this wedding,” Johnson said. “We were sitting in the little Roxy Theater at 11 in the morning on a beautiful Saturday and then I open with my lisp.” For some, Johnson also serves as a “mini” wedding planner. That means making sure the day unfolds according to schedule and being willing to “be the bad guy” if guests get out of hand. She’s also borne witness to intimate elopements, often one of the only guests to see the wedding unfold in person. Though the busy season won’t hit until mid-May, Johnson said she was scheduled to perform her service at an elopement later this month. “Those are the tearjerkers, the couples where it’s just about them,” Johnson said.

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Johnson prides herself on her unique wedding ceremonies, vastly different than the so-called cookie cutter weddings she’s attended in the past. She begins every consultation with easy conversation, learning all about how the prospective customers met, their passions and hobbies and any religious affiliations or requests. Some of the betrothed are in their 80s and have found true love after a lifelong search. Others are fresh out of high school or met on an online dating site. “So, obviously, one size doesn’t fit all,” Johnson said. Few things are consistent, then, except for one key commonality: Johnson has only performed one wedding inside. Clients have come calling on Johnson from across the country. A pair of Hawaii natives trekked to The Essex for their wedding. When Johnson marveled at their decision to leave the ocean paradise, the mother of the bride told her it was more prestigious to marry in Vermont. Other clients are less focused on public perception. A Canadian bride and

“It’s very pure.” Speaking of water works, Johnson also gets to chat with the groom at the top of the altar as he awaits his bride. She always keeps a few tissues on hand for the sweating brow or stray teardrop. “Many times it’s the groom who’s falling apart, it seems,” Johnson said. “They’re very, very cool until we’re standing there.” About half of Johnson’s couples are interested in exchanging their own written vows. The rest are a bit wary of performing and elect to deliver personal words in private or just focus on the all-important “I do.” Through it all, Johnson said she becomes connected with the couples as they navigate a major life milestone. She’ll follow up on Facebook later, thrilled to see they’ve welcomed a child or two since she saw them last. “I get to know them, and I get to feel like they’re mine,” Johnson said. “At the reception, I’ll have to remind myself to leave because it’s not my family!”

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TO HAVE & TO HOLD

February 15, 2018 • The Essex Reporter • 13

bridal 2018

LINWEAVER JACKSON Colleen Lineweaver and Shannon Jackson were wed on Oct. 14, 2017. Although the couple now resides in Washington D.C., Jackson grew up in Essex Jct. and previously worked as U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders' body man during the campaign. Jackson is currently the executive director of Our Revolution, the organization that has continued the energy from the Bernie 2016 campaign. Lineweaver works for Jane Sanders at The Sanders Institute, a non-profit dedicated to educating the electorate about progressive issues.

PICARD - MCGUIRE Brittany Marie Picard, daughter of Michael and Lorrie Picard, and Steven Richard McGuire, son of Elaine Collins and Richard McGuire, were married at Catamount Country Club in Williston on Sept. 30, 2017 in front of all of their family and friends. The wedding was officiated by the bride's brother, Joseph Picard, and it was followed by a reception held on site. The bride and groom both met in and graduated from Essex High School. The groom is a graduate of Vermont Technical College and works as a production project manager for Dealer. com. The bride is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire and works as an intensive needs program specialist in Milton and is the head coach of the Essex High School Varsity Cheerleading team. The couple resides in Essex Jct. The ceremony attend-

PLAZA – GAMACHE

ees included best man Joe McGuire, brother of the groom; groomsmen Kevin Fournier, Ryan Morgan, Trevor Fulchino, Matthew Parisi III, Adam Picard, brother of the bride; and cousins of the groom Kevin, Skylar and Michael Millette; man-ofhonor Jordan Avery and matron-ofhonor Jess Lane; bridesmaids Maria Morgan, Allison Hennessey, Camilla Corsaro, cousin of the bride Macey Bouffard, Kayleigh Shappy, and Tay-

lor Tyksinski; junior bridesmaids and cousins of the bride, Alexa and Olivia Porter; ring princess Julia Thibault; flower girls Anna Morgan, Kelly Morgan, and goddaughter of the couple Lucy Morgan, and Delaney Johnson; usher godson of the bride Teddy LaFountaine. The couple honeymooned in Sanibel Island, Fla. and Walt Disney World.

Scott and Jan Plaza of Essex announce the engagement of their daughter Erin, of Colchester, to Matthew Gamache, son of Jayne Gamache of Colchester and Ted and Liz Gamache of St. Albans. A fall wedding is planned.

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JEN MATT WILLIAMS Jen writes, "My husband, born and raised in Essex Jct., and I will be married 21 years this coming July 26. We were married at the Inn at Essex."

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4 • 14

The Essex Reporter • February 15, 2018

Community HealtH

3 Steps for an Injury-Free Winter Winter is well underway. This season, patients come through our doors with painful reminders of the downside of living and playing in our beautiful, if chilly, state. Want to get through the cold without incident? Here are three things you can do.

early symptoms blisters. If you think you have frostbite on your feet, try not to walk, as you may cause further harm. Get to a warm place as soon as possible. Dry the frostbitten area completely and very slowly warm the frostbitten areas. Don’t use direct heat or you may burn your skin. Wrap the affected area in a blanket and seek medical treatment. If you are in pain or if your skin remains numb or doesn’t return to its regular color, seek emergency care.

2. Be vigilant when the power’s out ous. You can take steps recommended by Vermont Emergency Management to avoid hazards associated with losing power: Stay away from downed power lines and make sure your power company

knows about them. Never drive over them. If clearing trees or limbs, make sure they are not in contact with power lines. Trees and branches can conduct electricity and electrocute you. If you run a generator,

make sure it is well outside your living area (not in an attached garage) and far enough away from windows or other places where exhaust could enter your home. Carbon monoxide is

deadly and odorless, so be sure that you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home – especially if you run a generator at any time.

snow; winter itself increases your risk of heart attack. Being in cold temperatures causes your blood vessels to constrict, making your body work harder to move blood around and help the heart to function at its best, increasing your cardiac risk. Overheating can become an issue too, if the many layers you

might don before tackling the driveway become too much after you exert yourself. Overheating causes blood vessels to dilate, which lowers blood pressure dramatically. If you are overdressed or feeling too warm while exerting yourself, it is best to slow down, take a break, or take off a layer of clothing.

3. Shoveling? Baby your back and your HEART! Shoveling snow is the cause of many winter injuries – some you wouldn’t expect. Many arise when normally sedentary people exert themselves to clear the driveway and get on with their lives. If you haven’t exercised in a while, take particular care when shoveling—you might even warm up with

a few stretches indoors before tackling the task. All shovelers should baby their backs by bending at the knees, rather than the waist and pushing snow whenever possible, rather than throwing it. Absolutely avoid twisting your back, which can cause herniated disks. To avoid falls, which cause many serious shov-

with

President and Chief Operating Officer

1. Avoid frostbite . . . and know the

Vermont already saw some big storms this year. Most of us are no strangers to power outages. While nobody considers them fun (except for candles, which can be nice), they can be truly danger-

A conversation

Eileen Whalen

In partnership with UVM Medical Center

Frostbite – it’s when your skin (usually on your hands or feet) actually freezes. Prevent it by covering your extremities, especially in very cold temperatures or if you will be outdoors for a long time. If you find yourself unprotected in the cold unexpectedly, tuck your hands under your armpits to protect them. It’s time to go indoors if your skin feels numb and develops white patches – the pre-cursors to frostbite. Skin with frostbite becomes dark gray, hardens or develops

Essex Reporter, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018

eling injuries, wear good boots while shoveling and make sure your vision is not obscured by hats or other clothing. Perhaps the worst shoveling injuries – though not the most common – are heart attacks. Not only do many otherwise-inactive people over-exert themselves while shoveling

Local Health Events & Classes Feb. 19 – Feb. 26 Monday, Feb. 19 – Exercise Class for Older Adults

Tuesday, Feb. 20 – Living with a Chronic Health Condition?

Monday, Feb. 26 – Mindfulness Tools for Health and Wellness

Monday, Feb. 19 – Yoga for Patients with Chronic Conditions

Thursday, Feb. 22 – Help for Depression, Anxiety and More

The UVM Medical Center offers free educational programs, healthy lifestyle classes, and workshops. Pre-registration is required.

Monday, Feb. 19 –Mindfulness Tools for Health and Wellness

Monday, Feb. 26 – Exercise Class for Older Adults

For more information, visit www. UVMHealth.org/MedCenter or call 802-847-7222.

Butternut Squash: Try This Recipe for a Twist on Mac ‘n Cheese

ealth means something a bit different to everyone. For some, the picture of health is running 5Ks with family. For others, it’s being able to manage a chronic condition such as hypertension or diabetes without needing to go to the Emergency Department. For still others, health means being able to kneel on the living room floor without pain and play with our grandchildren. There’s a common thread – when we’re healthy, we are able to enjoy the things that bring meaning to our lives. Health care today is no longer about just taking care of patients who come to the hospital when they’re very sick. It’s about developing habits that help us all get and stay as healthy as possible. We know that it can be difficult to manage a condition like diabetes without a reliable place to store medication. That healthy eating can be a challenge when the produce aisle at the grocery store seems daunting and expensive. And that “getting in shape” can seem impossible when you barely have time to run errands after work. Exciting partnerships are taking root in our community right now that will help each one of us improve our health, no matter where we’re starting. The UVM Medical Center is proud to work with partners in housing, the local food industry, and fitness, to name a few. I’m excited to introduce this column, which will discuss those partnerships and health questions that many of us have at one time or another. I hope that this space will remind you that small steps can make a big difference on the lifelong journey of caring for ourselves. Some weeks, we will talk about seasonal health issues we’re all experiencing together. You’ll see that this week we’ve included some tips for staying safe in cold weather, and a recipe for a healthy twist on comfort food. In the coming weeks and months, I also hope to introduce you to some of the community organizations whose partnership is central to our work combating the opioid epidemic, helping people get the care they need at home, and many other initiatives that will improve life for all of us. In my time at the UVM Medical Center, I have been impressed every day with the ideas and energy that Vermonters bring to the table – whether we’re discussing our gardens, our hobbies, or our health care. I hope that you will join us in the discussion, and that this space offers a way for us to connect and get to know one another. Do you have questions about health, or is there something you’d like to see us discuss in this space? Please get in touch at karrie.rich@uvmhealth.org. ––– Eileen Whalen, MHA, RN, is a former trauma nurse who now leads The University of Vermont Medical Center. She currently serves as co-chair of the RiseVT board, and co-chair of the Chittenden County Opioid Alliance board.

Follow UVM Medical Center on Social Media! Facebook.com/TheUniversityofVermontMedicalCenter/

@UVMMedCenter

Ingredients: • 1 lb. box of dried pasta • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter • 1/2 onion, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 tsp dried thyme • 4 Tbsp flour • 2 cups milk • 2 cups grated cheddar • 2 cups butternut squash puree • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg • 1/4 tsp cayenne • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions: • Cook pasta in a large pot of salted, boiling water. Drain 2 minutes shy of package instructions and set aside. • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and thyme, cooking until onions are soft (~5 minutes). Stir in flour and cook for about 3 minutes, then add milkstirring until sauce begins to thicken (a few minutes).

• Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar. Add squash, mustard, nutmeg, cayenne, and black pepper and mix in. Season to taste with salt. • Pour cheese sauce over pasta until sufficiently coated. Using a spatula, transfer to a 9x13-inch baking dish. • Bake in a 375 degree oven until sauce bubbles around the edges (25-30 minutes).

The University of Vermont Medical Center is the community hospital for residents of Chittenden County and part of The University of Vermont Health Network, which serves patients throughout Vermont and Northern New York. To learn more about what we offer, please visit www.UVMHealth.org/MedCenter