Feb. 18. 2016 Essex Reporter

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FeBRUARY 18, 2016

Vol. 36, No. 7

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Prsrt Std ECRWSS U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 266 Essex Junction, VT 05452 Postal Patron-Residential

EHS and technology center budgets down Salaries and benefits up $300K, offset by staff turnover, state aid

By colIN FlANDErS The Essex Reporter The Union 46 School Board on Monday approved a budget of $24.6 million — a slight decrease from last year — for Essex High School, and a budget of $8.5 million — down about 1.5 percent — for the Center for Technology.

Voters will also be asked to place $250,000 in the district’s Capital Reserve Fund when the three items appear on the April 12 ballot.

Town residents will vote at Essex Middle School and village residents will vote at the high school.

According to newly enacted state legislation, districts around the state were

provided a threshold for spending per student, called an allowable growth rate.

Currently, Essex High School’s per pupil spending is calculated at $16,098.

The board is proposing to increase the high school’s per-student spending by 1.3 percent to $16,312.

Initially, the state was going to allow the high school up to a 1.4 percent increase before it would incur penalties, however, a recent amendment to Act 46 increased all districts’ limits by an additional 0.9 percent to combat unforeseen rises in health care costs.

Since the school board’s proposal falls within the initial cap, the school board could have gone back and increase its per-student spending by up to 1 percent. It decided

Night lights PHOTOS | GEORGE HENRY

T

emperatures may have dipped but spirits soared during the first Essex “STREAM of Lights” parade over the weekend.

A sea of handmade lanterns, along with the light of flames from a bonfire, filled the streets around Essex High School Feb. 12, as students and community members lit up the evening.

The parade is the culmination of nearly a year and a half of planning, according to Lisa Foley, an art teacher at Summit Street School and Thomas Fleming School. Ten schools participated, spanning the Essex, Essex Junction and Westford school districts.

The parade route took participants down Educational Drive, onto Central Street and looped back to the high school via North Street. The bonfire and singalong took place after the parade.

Overseeing the lantern-making process was Vermont artist Gowri Savoor, who has been leading similar proceedings around the state since 2010, originating with Waterbury’s annual River of Light parade.

Savoor hosted a handful of lanternmaking workshops for both students and community members. The designs are age appropriate, Savoor added, with older students given a little more creative license over their creations.

Designs ranged from traditional lanterns to ships and even a nod to the movie “Star Wars” with a lantern R2D2.

against this, however, citing the potential effect on tax rates, according to Grant Geisler, Chittenden Central Supervisory Union’s chief financial officer.

Therefore, based on the board’s proposed per-student spending calculation, current tax rate estimates for residents in Essex Junction show a $5.90 savings per $100,000 in assessed property.

Comparatively, those in Essex Town would see approximately $13 in savings per $100,000 in assessed property.

Geisler said in an email that the eventual tax rate calculation will most likely be “less of an increase than I’ve seen in my 10 years here.”

Changes from FY16

Salaries and benefits for current employees make up over 70 percent of the high school’s budget — a nearly $300,000 increase from FY16.

While a budget surplus of $200,000 is being carried over, that amount is about $210,000 less than the previous year.

This difference — along with an expected $140,000 decrease in tuition revenue — has the same effect as increasing expenses by $350,000, according to Geisler.

Staffing reductions make up for much of the deficit; they account for approximately

– See U46 on page 2a

Essex hockey player suspended, investigation ongoing An Essex High School boys' hockey player has been suspended following “allegations of inappropriate behavior” involving another teammate, according to Principal Rob Reardon.

Reardon declined to name the athletes involved.

The incident was reported to an assistant principal at the high school on Feb. 5, Reardon said. From there, the school made a report to the Department for Children and Families while also notifying Essex Police.

Essex Police Chief Brad LaRose said the case has been passed on to the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations. The unit is a countywide task force that specializes in sexual crimes.

It has yet to be determined if the incident was part of hazing, Reardon said.

Essex had a game against Colchester on Feb. 5., the day the incident was reported.

The team was scheduled to play its final game of the regular season at BFA-St. Albans on Wednesday, and currently sits No. 2 in the VPA rankings.

Superintendent Judy Denova and hockey head coach Bill O'Neill declined to comment on the incident. O'Neil, who's in his 43rd year with the team, recently received the John Mariucci award, a national honor given annually to the coach who best promotes the spirit of the game and growth of the sport in the United States.

It has yet to be decided if the team will face any sanctions, Reardon said.

— Staff report

Two vie for seat on Essex selectboard Two candidates are running to fill the final two years of a three-year term on the Essex selectboard in the only contested local race on the Town Meeting Day ballot. The Essex Reporter posted questions to candidates Sue Cook and Varpilah Chase about their candidacies and thoughts on current town issues. Below are their responses.

Describe your connection to Essex and your professional background.

Sue Cook: Hi, my name is Sue Cook and I am running for the open two-year seat on the Essex selectboard. My husband and I moved to Essex 20 years ago, and both of our daughters attended and benefitted from the excellent schools here.

I’ve been an active member of our community. I am serving in my third year as a key member of the Essex Energy Committee and contributed as a participant on the Thoughtful Growth in Action work group. I helped drive the completion of the conversion to LED street-lighting in the town outside the village (the village project is now underway). I also helped ensure that energy efficient measures were included with the town office renovations.

These types of projects make sense for economic and environmental reasons. The Thoughtful Growth in Action team developed

– See Q&a on page 2a

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

Climatology talk at the Deborah Rawson Memorial Library

By Phyl Newbeck For The Essex Reporter For the last five years, the Jericho Energy Task Force has been putting together a winter movie series.

In January they held a showing of the film “Blue Vinyl” at the Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, but in February, the group will be trying something a little bit different. Rather than show a movie, they will be sponsoring a talk on Feb. 19 by state climatologist Lesley-Ann Dupigny-Giroux who also doubles as the chair of the geography department at the University of Vermont.

Dupigny-Giroux’s presentation will describe current weather phenomena.

With phrases such as “El Nino” and “Polar Vortex” entering our vocabulary, she will explain what these words really mean and how they affect our lives. In addition, she will introduce people to the North Atlantic Oscillation, which, in contrast to the Pacific-based El Nino, is situated close to Vermont. The January blizzard along the Eastern Seaboard was a product of the North Atlantic Oscillation. “We need to make sure we aren’t missing pieces of the puzzle,” Dupigny-Giroux said. “That’s why it’s nice to be a geographer; because it can help bring pieces of the map together.”

The lead editor of “Historical Climate Variability and Impacts in North America,” Dupigny-Giroux noted that weather affects virtually all aspects of our daily life. “Whether you check the weather report on your phone or go outside,” she said “the information coming back at you shapes the course of your day. Many of your day to day decisions are based on the weather.”

Dupigny-Giroux added that on a grander scale, the weather has

a significant impact on the socio-economic status of the state and its inhabitants; affecting things like the ski industry and the maple sugaring season.

As part of her presentation, DupignyGiroux will talk about the kinds of weather patterns that converge over the northeast and discuss how daily weather and seasonal patterns are the result of various forces coming together. She hopes an engaged audience will allow her to have an interactive presentation which will include a number of photos to help explain various phenomena. “The power of pictures is greater than the power of words,” she said.

Larry Lamb is the Jericho Energy Task Force member who puts together the annual winter movie series. “I decided it was time to try something a little bit different,” he said. “Particularly with the warm December we had and the lack of early season snow, I thought this was a topic that might interest people. So many facets of the state economy are affected by climate. This is a presentation that should interest skiers, sugarmakers, farmers, and just about anyone else who spends time outdoors in Vermont.”

“We’re all amateur meteorologists and climatologists,” said Dupigny-Giroux.

“Put a bunch of strangers together and they will all start talking about the weather. It’s what binds us and shapes us as human beings.”

The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19 at the Deborah Rawson Memorial Library on River Road in Jericho. Refreshments will be served but it will be a waste-free event so attendees are asked to bring their own bowls and mugs.

Essex Junction woman completes child care program Kate Keach, an Essex Junction resident, recently completed the Vermont Child Care Apprenticeship Program. During her two-year apprenticeship at Children Unlimited in Williston, Keach was supported by her mentor, Trisha Scharf.

The Child Care Apprenticeship Program combines on-the-job mentoring with formal classroom instruction in the field of early childhood education. Keach documented over 4,000 hours of supervised work on the job; completed a sequence of six college courses; and attended over 30 hours of training designed to broaden her knowledge and skills in the field. The state Department of Labor issued her a certificate of completion in the trade of Child Care Development Specialist.

The Vermont Child Care Industry and Careers Council is a nonprofit organization that runs the Registered Child Care Apprenticeship Program in partnership with the Vermont Department of Labor and area child care employers. The council contracts the college courses through the Community College of Vermont, with grant funding from the Vermont Child Development Division as well as private donations.

Q&A

from page 1a a recommendation for an updated planning governance structure and enhanced community engagement with the planning process.

Professionally, I am a certified project manager and have been employed for close to 30 years at IBM, Efficiency Vermont Sue Cook Varpilah Chase and Vertek. I have managed projects that have positive impacts globally and in have taken to determine opportunities Vermont in the information technology, for combining services across the Town telecommunications and energy industries. of Essex where it makes sense. There are Varpilah Chase: My connection to Essex multiple considerations that contribute is that I was raised here. I went through the to consolidation making sense. It is an Essex education system. My father works opportunity to realize efficiencies while there, and he entered when I entered. I maintaining or improving the level of participated in track and field and did very services. We additionally benefit by creating an environment with increased well.

After high school, I joined the U.S. collaboration and a more comprehensive Navy for six years before being honorably view.

Chase: I feel that the consolidation is discharged. After military service, I attended what we voted for, what we wanted and is UVM for a bachelor’s degree in economics. what we need.

Essex Town Meeting Day Monday, Feb. 29 Essex High School

6:30 p.m., Community Dinner 7:30 p.m., Town Meeting (budget discussion and vote) *Childcare available in gymnasium

FY ’17 budget at a glance

– $13.2 million – $595,000 increase (4.7 percent) – 1.5 new employees – $200,000 cost transfer for Essex Junction paving – $125,000 from fund balance used as revenue – $36 average annual property tax increase in town – $17 average annual property tax increase in village

Tuesday, March 1

Election, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., EHS and EMS Ballot at a glance

– Selectboard 2-year: Sue Cook vs. Varpilah Chase – Selectboard 3-year: Michael Plageman (unopposed) – Selectboard 3-year: Irene Wrenner (unopposed) – Moderator: Steven Eustis (unopposed) – Water District Representative: Aaron Martin (unopposed) – Town Plan update: Yes or No

Why are you seeking a seat on the Essex Selectboard?

Kate Keach of Essex Junction recently completed the Vermont Child Care Apprenticeship Program.

Photo contributed

The Essex Memorial Day Parade Needs Volunteers The Essex Memorial Day Parade takes place on Saturday, May 28th, 2016 and volunteers are needed to assist with the following: PARADE MARSHALS and PARKING ATTENDANTS Assist on the day of the parade with the lineup and vehicle traffic. Marshals walk with the assigned division to maintain uniformity. A t-shirt, refreshments and community appreciation are always provided!

BANNER CARRIERS Carry the division banners on the parade route. Teams are welcome. Must be age 13 or over to carry a banner.

SET UP AND CLEAN UP CREW Assistance assembling the banners at the St. James Church on Lincoln St. on Fri. May 27th beginning at 3pm.

Tear down takes place at the VFW Post 6689 immediately following the parade on Sat. May 28th.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Committee members are needed. The Parade Committee meets at the Essex Jct. Parks and Rec. offices on Maple St., Essex Jct. the 2nd Monday of every month from 7:00-8:00pm January through May. Small commitment, big return.

HELP US TO CARRY ON THE TRADITION THANK YOU FOR VOLUNTEERING Visit our website: EssexMemorialDayParade.com Call 363-8401 or email essexparade@gmail.com for more information and to volunteer

Cook: I am seeking this seat on the Essex Selectboard because I care about Essex today and for its future. I have insight into how things work here as a result of volunteering in support of Essex. I appreciate the passion and ideas of the people who live here.

As a certified project manager, I’ve had success rallying teams around goals.

My skills enable an organized approach to getting things done, observing and assessing opportunities for improvement, and managing budgets. I’m not afraid to ask the right questions that inform a clear understanding and lead to a better solution.

Chase: I am seeking this seat because I feel that in some way I owe Essex for who and what I am.

Would you work to support the ongoing consolidation of town and village services?

Cook: Yes, I respect the approach that the current selectboard and village trustees

U46

from page 1a $270,000 in savings and include an Alternative Center for Education classroom teaching assistant, a full-time custodian and the full-time equivalent of 1.625 in overall teaching staff, a number which is based “on enrollment projections, class-size standards and registration history,” Geisler wrote in an email.

These reductions are spread across many areas, Geisler explained, and are split up based on the number of sections that need to be taught. He said the district anticipates most of these small reductions will be absorbed by regular turnover.

Other savings include $60,000 from the maintenance of buildings and grounds due to completed one-time projects in FY16, nearly $63,000 less in tuition to the tech center because of slightly decreased enrollment, and a combined $97,000 in transportation, technology and athletics — the latter two resulting from one-time purchases made in FY16.

The rest of the difference is accounted for by drawing an additional $207,000 from the state education fund and $400,000 from the state construction aid.

Revenue from the state for special education is also down about $260,000, however this loss is offset by the district saving about $285,000 in special education costs due to lower needs, less student placements outside the district — from 23 to 16 — and a social worker being moved to the Chittenden Country Supervisory Union.

CTE

The school board is also proposing a budget decrease for the Center of Technology while fulfilling its goal of keeping tuition at its current amount: $16,750.

The center’s overall revenue is down

What is your vision for land development and/or land conservation in the village and town?

Cook: I believe we need to protect and value our open spaces. Once we convert them into developed land, it is nearly impossible to revert back to the natural habitat that existed. Essex has a nice balance of undeveloped and developed land. We owe it to our future community to conserve the beauty and recreation that only Vermont’s nature can offer.

Chase: I feel that preserving what Vermont is and still guiding Vermont towards growth is important. As Edward Abbey said, “Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of a cancer cell.” We need to grow but we need to make sure that we preserve what is truly important to us and our land.

What issues would you prioritize as a member of the board?

Cook: My priorities for Essex are the following: Ensure Essex remains a safe and healthy place to live.

Manage taxpayers’ money with fiscal integrity and maximize value of services to the community.

Encourage the establishment of new appropriate and sustainable business in Essex.

Continue to work towards a more collaborative and accessible municipal government.

Chase: There is no single issue that I feel is important. All issues are as important to us as a whole because we all live here.

People’s issues are my issues and my issues are their issues.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about your candidacy?

Cook: I’m running for selectboard to serve and contribute to our community. I have no interest in running for “higher” offices; for me, serving my own community is the highest honor.

I would like to thank The Essex Reporter for this opportunity to introduce myself and provide you some insight into my experience and priorities. To learn more about my candidacy, please visit www. sue4youessex.com, and feel free to reach out to me with any questions or feedback.

I can also be reached at sue4you.essex@ gmail.com.

Chase: I would like voters to vote for me because as a local resident myself, I am honored to be their candidate. approximately $127,000, due in large part to a decrease of $70,000 in the budget fund balance and nearly $100,000 less in tuition due to lower enrollment. Additionally, the amount budgeted for maintenance projects is up nearly $50,000, due mostly to plans for an engineering and production technology lab space.

To make up for these new costs and the loss of revenue while keeping tuition level, the board is proposing a number of staffing reductions, including a parttime social studies position, a bus driver/ transportation coordinator, an English Language Learners teacher and a cosmetology position.

The amount budgeted for technology is also down about $80,000 l due to onetime FY16 purchases, and a consolidation of miscellaneous costs — such as general supplies, travel and shared maintenance — will save about $33,500.

Similar to the high school, the Center of Technology will also make use of additional on-hand state construction aid to help offset the loss in revenue.

Out of the $250,000 proposed for the district’s Capital Reserve Fund, nearly $160,000 would go toward maintenance projects, including the replacement of a truck and consulting with a civil engineer concerning the campus’s traffic design, as well as any necessary resurfacing projects.

Additionally, $35,000 would be slated to improve the high school’s locker room bathrooms, making them more handicapaccessible, while $50,000 would go to information technology for infrastructure improvements.

Essex High School will be hosting an informational meeting on the budget on April 11 at 7:45 p.m., and it will be up for voter approval on April 12.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

News Briefs

Obituary

Water conservation request prompts concerns

Luella Eileen Hill

A request made by the Champlain Water District to conserve water on Feb. 9 sparked concern among some residents who said they felt they weren't provided a timely warning.

The Essex Junction Fire Department published the news via Facebook on Feb. 8, a day before the planned conservation effort. The press release, which was sent by the Champlain Water District and dated for Feb. 4, asks residents to conserve water between the hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Feb. 9 in order to help the treatment facility complete “major plant piping upgrade improvements.”

“This conservation effort will allow the CWD to maintain adequate fire protection and storage volumes in its water tanks strategically located around the county,” the press release reads.

A handful of residents, including village trustees, took to Facebook to express their concerns.

“I am a bit dismayed at the lack of advanced notice provided by CWD when this would logically be something that would require planning on their end,” trustee member Andrew Brown wrote as a comment on the fire department's post.

Yet, according to Jim Fay, Champlain Water District's general manager, the press release was sent out to local fire stations, various television media outlets as well as the Burlington Free Press on Feb. 4.

“It's somewhat up to those media contacts how they handle that, and whether they put it out on the schedule they want,” Fay said. A reminder is also sent out on Feb. 8.

Although he wasn't aware of residents' concerns, Fay said the effort to conserve water during the winter basically extends to putting off loads of laundry for the day.

“What we’re really trying to do is make sure the 12 municipal water services we use know if there is a water break or emergency during the hours we requested, that we get a call immediately so we can make any adjustments with how water flows around the county,” Fay said, before adding that the facility is open to exploring new ways of communicating with residents.

The shutdown went smoothly, Fay said.

St. Michael’s mourns graduate student

A St. Michael’s College graduate student found dead in his room last Thursday morning suffered a “sudden medical event,” according to Colchester police.

The student has been identified as 25-year-old Mohammed Al-Kharsan of Iraq.

Around 8:30 a.m. last Thursday, St. Michael’s Public Safety Officers

notified Colchester Police of a “possible student death” in Senior Hall located on Lime Kiln Road.

The final report from the medical examiner won’t be available for several weeks, but police say there was no indication of foul play.

Al-Kharsan’s name was initially withheld until the college received confirmation from the Iraqi consular office that his family had been notified, according to an email sent by the Office of the President to students on Friday.

Al-Kharsan began studying at St. Michael’s in 2013 on a student visa after receiving his undergraduate degree from the College of Languages in Baghdad, where he was first in his English Language Program.

He was scheduled to receive his master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages this May. He was currently working on his thesis under the direction of his advisor, Professor Mahmoud Arani, chair of the Applied Linguistics Department.

“Mohammed was an excellent, bright, and very polite student,” said Arani in the email sent out to students.

“We are going to miss him sorely, and express our deepest condolences to his family.”

The college held a memorial service for Al-Kharsan on Monday.

Luella Eileen Hill, 96, died in Burlington on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016.

She was born in Logansport, Ind. to Lorenzo and Sadie Hayward on June 11, 1919. On July 19, 1937, she married Elmer Hill in Fort Wayne, Ind. She lived most of her life in Indiana and Florida. She moved to Luella Eileen Hill Vermont 10 years ago to be closer to her daughter, Jo Ann, and was a resident on Whitcomb Woods before to moving the assisted living in Burlington.

She is survived by son John (Pat) Hill, Carmel, Ind.; daughter Jo Ann Leedy, Essex Junction; grandsons Brian (Regan) Hill, Nineveh, Ind., Bradley Hill, Logansport, Ind., Steve (Leslie) Leedy, Bakersfield, and Eric Leedy, Milton; six great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by Elmer in 1988 and son-inlaw Carl Leedy in 2000.

Per her wishes, there will be no service in Vermont.

A committal service and burial will take place in Indiana in the spring.

A. W. Rich funeral home is in charge of arrangements.

Visit www.awrichfh.com to share your memories.

Police beat Colchester man and passenger OK after crash

Vermont State Police say hazardous road conditions contributed to a one-vehicle crash at the northbound rest area in Williston on Feb. 9.

Police say Maxim Sirbu, 31, of Colchester

left his proper lane of traffic, causing disabling damage to his 2007 Volvo XC90.

He and his passenger were evaluated, and declined to be transported to the hospital.

Sirbu’s vehicle was towed from the scene.

The South Burlington Police Department and Williston Rescue provided assistance.

Obituary Submission Guidelines

We welcome submitted obituaries. Send obituaries of 300 words or less to news@ essexreporter.com. Photos are encouraged.

Obituaries are subject to editing. Please submit obituaries no later than Thursday at 5 p.m. for publication in the following week’s edition.

We also offer the option of paid space if you prefer a longer or unedited obituary. Paid obituaries are marked by ◊. Contact snook@essexreporter. com or 878-5282 x 207 for more information.

Correction In the Feb. 11, 2016 edition of The Essex Reporter, an article about the Essex Community Historical Society’s 25th anniversary reported the wrong email address for treasurer Ann Gray.

Those looking to provide information for upcoming exhibits should send emails to GrayAnn8@aol.com.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

O pinion Perspective

Letters to the Editor

Democratizing decision-making

By Deb Markowitz When I was first elected to public office at the age of 37, I was lucky enough to have a mentor, Tom Lehner, who had spent most of his career in public administration.

I first met him when I was a young law clerk to Vermont Supreme Court Justice Louis Peck and he was the court administrator. Tom took seriously the obligation of government to look out for all Vermonters — especially those who could not easily speak up for themselves. I remember how he would raise his eyebrows at me when I was about to move ahead without fully considering all of the unintended consequences of a decision. He would say, “Remember Deb, what you see will depend upon where you are sitting.”

Tom was teaching me a lesson in leadership — that great leaders take time to listen. To be most effective, it is important to understand issues from the perspective of all Vermonters, not just from those rich or practiced enough to participate in public debate. This advice sounds simple, but I have seen how difficult it can be to put into practice.

It is human nature to see the world through the lens of our own life experiences. We tend to listen to and trust the advice of our own experts and those who share our values. It can be uncomfortable to have our opinions challenged, but this is exactly why it is important for government officials to make it easy for the public to get involved.

There has been a long history in our country of ordinary citizens speaking out and organizing against threats to public health and the environment. Examples from across the country include Love Canal in New York, a town built on a toxic chemical dumpsite, and Hinkley, Calif., a small farming community affected by groundwater pollution from a nearby gas plant.

In Vermont, highly toxic chemicals from an old, dry cleaning facility in Williamstown contaminated the soil and groundwater. In all of these cases, and many more, grassroots organizations played an important role in protecting health, communities and nature.

Advocates and nonprofit organizations ensure that Vermonters have the tools and resources needed to participate in decisions that impact their communities and our Vermont way of life. This is why at the Agency of Natural Resources, we are finding ways to increase public participation in our decision-making.

This year, we have brought to the legislature a proposal to reform our permitting process. Our goal is to simplify the notice and comment periods so that it is easier for neighbors and community members to learn about projects and get involved. Other changes will ensure that we develop a transparent record that explains the basis of our decisions and that projects requiring multiple permits can be coordinated, making it easier to participate in public hearings. We are increasing opportunities for stakeholders to meet with agency staff early in the permitting process so we can take into account their concerns. We also hope to get legislative support to establish a reconsideration process for decisions made by the agency that Vermonters can navigate without a lawyer.

These changes will be good for the agency and good for Vermont. By increasing the opportunity for Vermonters to participate, our decision-making will be more transparent. With more process up front, there will be less need for costly lawsuits. But the most important reason for creating systems that encourage public involvement is that the decisions themselves will be better.

Over the years, I have come to understand how important it is that Vermonters have equal access to the administrative and judicial process. I have also seen how difficult and expensive these proceedings can be and how we must continue to encourage our citizen activists. As environmental pioneer Donella Meadows has said: “No one can define or measure justice, democracy, security, freedom, truth or love. No one can define or measure any value. But if no one speaks up for them, if systems aren’t designed to produce them, if we don’t speak about them and point toward their presence or absence, they will cease to exist.”

Deb Markowitz is secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources.

A nod to Cook

It gives me a great deal of pleasure to endorse the candidacy of Sue Cook for the open two-year seat on the Essex Selectboard. Sue has served her community through her work on the Essex Energy Committee and the Thoughtful Growth in Action work group. I feel her election to the selectboard will enhance the already stellar work being done by the board.

Please vote for Sue Cook on March 1.

Rep. Linda Myers Essex

Citizens stepping up It is great to see two of our neighbors motivated to run for the Essex Selectboard. I thank them both for being willing to make the effort and expend the considerable amount of energy it takes to run for office.

Sue Cook is running for the seat vacated by Brad Luck. Sue and I served together on the recently completed Thoughtful Growth in Action group that considered options to consolidate the Essex Town and Essex Junction planning structure. Sue was front and center during the process, demonstrating her willingness to learn about our complex planning process and to think creatively about how it might be revised and reformed.

She demonstrated her ability to absorb new information, reflect on implications of changes, and visualize a new future. These are exactly the traits Essex needs in our selectboard members.

Please cast your vote at town meeting, both at the evening meeting and in the voting booth the following day.

Greg Morgan Essex Junction

General Manager Suzanne Lynn

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

I have had the opportunity to get to know and work with Sue Cook, and I want to strongly encourage voters to elect her to the Essex Selectboard at Town Meeting Day, March 1. She is running for the two-year term.

As a 20-year resident, Sue is committed to continuing to improve the quality of life in Essex through her involvement in the Essex Energy Committee and Essex Thoughtful Growth In Action group. She would bring 30 years of experience in managing significant projects and programs in the private sector (IBM, Vertek, and Efficiency Vermont) to the work of the selectboard. She is very skilled at approaching both opportunities and challenges in a thoughtful way and developing solid strategies to increase the likelihood of success.

Sue is also a very approachable and responsive person. She will welcome the opportunity to work with other residents as well as other selectboard members, the town and village governments, and local businesses and organizations. She will work hard to continue to build a better, stronger community.

Vote for Sue Cook for Essex Selectboard on March 1. You will be very glad that you did.

Tim Palmer Williston

Complimenting Cook’s leadership I would like to endorse Sue Cook for the Essex Selectboard as I feel she would make a positive addition. I have worked with her on the board of directors for Everybody Wins! Vermont for the past year and have found she delves into the root of issues.

She is a proactive leader and

also demonstrates the core values of a team player. Her determination and hands-on approach to solving issues speaks volumes.

I believe she would be an asset to he Town of Essex.

Anne McGrath Burlington

Cook, the proven choice For Essex citizens still deciding who should fill the open seat on the Essex Selectboard seat, I would like to summarize my experience with candidate Sue Cook.

We met through mutual work with commercial efficient lighting programs a few years back. Sue immediately impressed me as someone of great talent and enthusiasm. To summarize her character, I would say she has proven to be open-minded, responsible, intelligent, genuine, approachable and highly motivated.

We served together on the Essex Energy Committee and dug in deep to make superior LED street lighting improvements a reality. Sue has raised a family in Essex and devoted her time selflessly here.

She thrives in service to our community, and I would encourage others to vote for Sue Cook on March 1.

J.C. McCann Essex Junction

Two outstanding candidates As March 1 approaches, please consider the importance of electing people to the Essex Selectboard who have the experience and passion to tackle important issues facing our community.

Given her management experience, established working relationships with municipal leaders and extensive community volunteer experience, Sue

Cook would make a terrific addition to the selectboard.

Sue will work hard to ensure that our best interests are at heart when it comes to future challenges including collaboration and consolidation of services, growing the local economy responsibly and sustainably, and quality of life in Essex.

Although Irene Wrenner is running unopposed this year, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge her exceptional level of dedication and commitment to our community. Irene makes understanding the issues a priority. Her schedule is arranged to ensure that she’s always watching out for us.

Irene has attended every selectboard meeting in the nine years that she has served!

Irene’s participation on a variety of other local and regional committees brings a wealth of insight and knowledge to the selectboard.

She goes the extra mile to ensure that municipal issues are communicated so residents can make informed choices.

She sends out quarterly e-notices to residents — I’d suggest adding your name to her list if you haven’t already — and posts to Front Porch Forum regularly.

Irene is eager to hear from constituents and takes the time to explain complex issues clearly. No doubt you’ve see her out and about at Farmers’ Markets and other public venues, as she registers voters, provides information and gathers input. Please join me in voting for these two outstanding candidates!

Iris Banks Essex

From the Statehouse As I write this article, I must say that we are Debbie finally in the single digit temperatures. Winter is Evans here!

I would like to give you a brief snapshot of the work in various committees in the House of Representatives. It has been a busy, busy time.

H.187, the Earned Sick Leave bill, should be back in the House from the Senate. This bill would provide incremental sick leave benefits that give all Vermont workers a few days to be out of work if they are ill. Many in the business community applaud this bill as a Vermont- sized solution to a common problem. Many more in the business community already offer paid time off so this bill does not affect them.

We will see what changes were made by the Senate and if agreement can happen.

My committee, Government Operations, is working on a number of diverse issues. One is the City of Burlington’s three charter change requests that voters approved in 2015 relating to gun control, which is a very contentious issue.

The committee voted not to enact these changes last year due to significant Constitutional problems. This year, the city rewrote the legislation and re-submitted these charter changes in bills H.566, H.567 and H.568. The committee took a whole day of testimony from city officials, citizens from Burlington and around the state, and our legal advisors.

H.566 requires firearms to be in safe storage or have a locking device unless in a person’s immediate possession or control; H.567 gives police the authority to confiscate a firearm or dangerous weapon if they have probable cause in a domestic assault; H.568 doesn’t allow the possession of a firearm on a premises where alcohol is served.

On the surface these changes might sound reasonable.

Reporter The

Sue Cook a solid choice

Essex

News Editor Jason Starr jason@essexreporter.com

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Published Thursdays Advertising Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

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Mailing Address: 42 Severance Green Unit #108 Colchester, VT 05446 Phone: 802-878-5282 Fax: 802-651-9635

The Essex Reporter is family owned and operated; it is published by Angelo Lynn and Emerson Lynn of Lynn Publications, Inc. and is a member of the Champlain Valley Newspaper Group.

The Essex Reporter makes every effort to be accurate. If you notice an error, please contact us at 878-5282, or by e-mail at news@essexreporter.com.

Note “correction” in the subject line.

When we started getting into the details of these bills, the issue of unintended consequences arose. One example was that if you were planning to go on a hunting trip and checked into a hotel the night before your plane left and the hotel had a bar, you could not bring your hunting guns. The wording in these bills was quite cumbersome.

A law enacted in 1987 referred to as the Sportsman’s Bill of Rights (24 VSA 2295) prohibits towns or cities from enacting ordinances or resolutions that regulate hunting, fishing, ownership or transportation of firearms.

The Fish and Wildlife Department weighed in with their concerns. They testified that they will not be able to effectively manage our wildlife in a coherent manner statewide with a “patchwork” of gun regulations in various towns.

The Constitutional issues are still present in these current charter amendments. The issue of pending litigation is still in play. This past week, a decision to not act on these charter amendments was made in the committee.

These bills were returned to “the wall” of the committee with no planned action intended.

Current work in the Judiciary Committee is focused on H.571. This is a bill related to drivers’ license suspensions.

The committee is looking to clear the slate of suspended licenses that were based on traffic tickets that predate 1990.

These tickets were issued in an era when traffic violations were considered misdemeanors. Most of the tickets were scattered to various locations throughout the state. There is no way of knowing why individuals with these pre1990 suspensions lost their licenses. The committee is also trying to address the large number of licenses that were suspended since 1990 due to non-traffic violations or failure to pay a fine. There needs to be a balance between getting people’s licenses back to them while still finding a way to collect some of the outstanding fines.

The Natural Resources and Energy Committee has been working on the Forestry Bill, H.584. Vermont is the least regulated state in New England regarding forestry.

H.608 would allow people who participate in Green Up Day to not sort trash from recycling. Solid waste districts support it. By the time the recycled material is pulled out of ditches and other places, it generally is not in a good recyclable state.

This week my committee will be concentrating on H.458, an act relating to automatic voter registration through motor vehicle drivers’ license applications; S.20, an act relating to establishing and regulating dental therapists; H.206, an act regulating to notaries; and H.557 establishing a state ethics commission, to name a few.

I look forward to catching up with you at Town Meeting.

Stay Warm!

As always, it is my pleasure an honor to serve you in the Legislature. I can be reached at devans@leg.state.vt with any questions or concerns.

Debbie Evans represents Essex Town in the Vermont House of Representatives.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

B USinESS |C OMMUniTY FINANCIAL FOCUS Submitted by

hEIDI BroSSEAU

I

n recent months, stocks have fallen sharply from their record highs, with one-day drops that can rightfully be called “dizzying.” As an investor, what are you to make of this volatility?

For one thing, you’ll find it useful to know the probable causes of the market gyrations. Most experts cite global fears about China’s economic slowdown, falling oil prices and anticipation of a move by the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates as the key factors behind the stock market’s decline.

On the other hand, the U.S. economy is still doing fairly well. Employers are adding jobs at a pretty good clip, wages are rising, home prices are up and overall economic growth has been reasonably solid. In other words, we are in a vastly better place than in the period before the Great Recession of 2008 and early 2009, when the financial markets bottomed out.

Nonetheless, it’s only natural that you

Best response to volatile markets? Stay calm

might feel some trepidation over what’s been being around and thriving in ten years, why happening in the financial markets over the wouldn’t you want to buy their stocks at past few weeks. So, what should you do? potentially lower prices?

Here are a few suggestions: • Diversify. During the downturn, just • Expect more of the same. Be prepared for about everyone’s portfolio was affected. more volatility, potentially including big But if yours took a particularly large hit, drops one day followed by big gains the next. it might be because your holdings are overUntil the factors considered responsible concentrated in stocks, especially the types for the current volatility – that is, China’s of stocks that fared the worst. You may need slowing economy, low oil prices and the to further diversify your portfolio through Federal Reserve’s decision on rates – have a mixture of domestic and international been fully absorbed into the market’s pricing stocks, bonds, government securities, real mechanisms, big price swings, one way or estate, certificates of deposit (CDs) and another, are to be expected. other vehicles. Diversification, by itself, • Don’t panic. The headlines may look grim, can’t guarantee a profit or prevent against but today’s newspapers are tomorrow’s all losses, but it can help blunt the harshest recycling pile. Volatility is nothing new, and effects of volatility. the financial markets are more resilient • Review your investment strategy. Unless than you may think. your goals have changed, there’s no reason to • Look for opportunities. By definition, revise your long-term investment strategy, a downturn occurs when investors sell even in the face of wild fluctuations in the massive amounts of stocks, but it actually financial markets. Still, it’s always a good may be a good time to buy them, while their idea to review your strategy at least once a price is down. Look at the most successful year, possibly in consultation with a financial businesses and their products and services. professional. You may need to make smallerIf you can envision these companies still scale adjustments in response to changes in

Essex Junction Lions celebrate awards

the economy, interest rates, and so on, but don’t abandon your core principles, such as maintaining a portfolio that reflects your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon.

Investing will never be either risk-free or predictable. But by taking the steps described above, you can relieve some of the stress associated with volatility and help yourself stay on track toward your financial objectives.

Past performance does not guarantee future results. Investors should understand the risks involved of owning investments, including interest rate risk, credit risk and market risk. The value of investments fluctuates and investors can lose some or all of their principal. Special risks are inherent to international investing, including those related to currency fluctuations and foreign political and economic events.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Heidi Brosseau, who has an office in Essex Junction. Email: heidi.brosseau@edwardjones.com

Honors for Essex Rotarian

C

ommunity and club members were honored with awards at the Jan. 27 meeting of the Essex Junction Lions Club at the Essex Resort and Spa.

Left: Essex Junction Lions Club President darby Mayville presents rylee Wrenner with a $125 check for first place in the Speak out contest. right: Club President darby Mayville presents Past district Governor Lion Clem Cardinal with an award for 50 years of service in the Essex Junction Lions Club, and for sponsoring new member Jodie Peck.

At a recent meeting, Essex rotary recognized dave Johnson as the club’s first Paul harris Fellow “Plus three.” dave earned this recognition by donating more than $4,000 to the rotary Foundation throughout his tenure as a rotarian. Paul harris Fellows are members who donate $1,000, so Johnson’s generosity is further acknowledged with the “plus three” designation. Pictured above, Johnson is joined by his family — son Matt, wife Marie and daughter and rotary Past President Amy Jackman.

Photo ContributEd

bottom: First-place Peace Poster winner rachel Chan poses with Essex Junction Lions Club Peace Poster chair and Past district Governor betsy MaGee, Vermont Lions district Peace Poster chair Carmelita belisle and Essex Junction Lions Club President darby Mayville.

PhotoS ContributEd

T

Mentor Pair of the Month

he February Mentor Pair of the Month is Allison Weston and Chris Rivers.

Allison is a seventh-grader at Essex Middle School and Chris is a retired school teacher from ETSD. This is their third year mentoring together but have known each other since Allison was in kindergarten.

FriendCHIPS is a schoolbased mentoring program that empowers the youth of the community by pairing them with a dedicated adult mentor for an hour a week. Benefits of mentoring include higher self-esteem, improved peer and adult relationships and increased classroom and school engagement. To learn more visit www.essexchips.org/programs/ for-youth/friendchips.

Allison, what’s the best thing about having a mentor?

I get to do fun things like play games, walk in the woods in the spring, and sometimes we just chat in the library.

Chris, what has surprised you the most about being a mentor?

Chris: My biggest surprise was when I walked in and realized it was Allison from kindergarten. After I retired from the elementary school after 23 years it was hard to ween myself away so I went back and did volunteer work in classrooms. One of the classrooms I was in a couple days a week had Allison as a kindergartener. And, I don’t know, we just made this immediate connection. I’ve had a couple other mentees before Allison and in both cases they’ve moved away. I’ve been with Allison since she was in fifth grade so this is our third year together, but feels like it’s been…

Allison: ..since kindergarten pretty much.

What are some things you enjoy doing together?

Chris: I enjoy Allison as a young person and just watching her grow into this wonderful young woman. I just love talking with her, and listening and sharing stories.

Just getting to spend the one-to-one time and not have it be the instructional atmosphere

Essex Automotive Services AUTOMATIC bRAkINg IS COMINg

Essex FriendChiPS Mentor Pair of the Month: Chris rivers and Allison Weston.

where you feel like you need to be enriching her subjects, just a down time where I can be Chris instead of Mrs. Rivers Allison: Although I still call you Mrs. Rivers.

Do you two have a favorite memory that you’d like to share?

Allison: That finger thingy!

Chris: That goes back to kindergarten Allison: In kindergarten she used to tape a piece of paper on her fingers…

Chris: I can’t believe she remembers it after all these years.

Allison: Do this again, do it again!

Chris demonstrates a kindergartener song about birds where a piece of paper mysteriously flies off from her fingers Allison: I was determined I was going to get that but I had to ask you after 8 years.

Chris: Because I worked in the district for so many years I know most of the people who work here. Everyone knows Allison and they think we’re pretty cool, so whenever they see us they always stop and chat.

We are about to enter a new era in vehicle safety, as car manufacturers focus on preventing crashes, not just protecting occupants from car crashes that have already occurred.

While the federal government has yet to mandate that automatic braking systems be installed in all new vehicles, several auto manufacturers have voluntarily agreed to outfit their new vehicles with the advanced safety systems.

Automatic braking systems use sensors to detect when crashes (primarily those involving vehicles that crash into the rear ends of the cars ahead of them) are about to occur, then automatically apply the brakes before the crash occurs.

Most crashes are caused by driver error, and automatic braking systems can prevent a good number of them.

At ESSEX AUTOMOTIVE we offer SERVICES, unparalleled service to all of our customers, especially when dealing with safety issues. We work with our customers and strive to provide them with optimum performance. We use state-of-the-art computerized equipment to ensure our work is completed to the highest standards. Located at 141-147 Pearl St, Essex Jct., “We do it all!” and we are serious about car care. Call 802.879.1966” We are open for Business!

Open 6:59 AM nO AppOintMent needed New Winter Hours: Mon. - Fri. CLOSED SATURDAYS UNTIL APRIL

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

Essex Area Religious Directory

C ALEnDAR 18 Thursday M.A.G.I.C.: Masculinity and Gender Identity Conversation. Participants of any

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

19 CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH- (Fundamentalindependent.) 61 Main St., Essex Junction, 878-8341.

Pastor James Gangwer. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship Service 11 a.m. Sunday evening worship 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday evening youth groups; Awana, Pro-Teens and Prayer meeting 7 p.m.

CHRIST MEMORIAL CHURCH- Route 2A, Williston, just north of Industrial Ave. Wes Pastor, Senior Minister, 8787107, Proclaiming Christ and Him crucified Sundays at 9:30 a.m. www.cmcvermont.org.

DAYBREAK COMMUNITY CHURCH - 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester VT. 05446 802-338-9118 www.daybreakvermont.org or brentdaybreak@gmail. com Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m. Lead Pastor, Brent Devenney.

ESSEX ALLIANCE CHURCH - 37 Old Stage Road in Essex Junction. Sunday Services: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Phone: 878-8213. www.essexalliance.org.

ESSEX CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Please join us for worship that combines the best of traditional and contemporary music and spirituality. We are a safe and welcoming space for all people to celebrate, worship, ask questions, and put down spiritual roots. Adult Bible Study at 8:30 a.m. Service at 10:00 a.m. with Sunday School and childcare provided.

We offer a variety of small groups for prayer, Bible study, hands-on ministry, and studying contemporary faith issues. 119 Center Rd (Route 15) Essex Center. Rev. Mitchell Hay, pastor. 878-8304.

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUNCTION, UCC, an Open and Affirming Congregation, embracing diversity and affirming the dignity and worth of every person, because we are all created by a loving God. 1 Church Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

Telephone (802) 878-5745; Website: www.fccej.org; Email: welcome@fccej.org Senior Pastor, Rev. Mark Mendes. Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:15 am.

Communion: first Sunday of every month. Sunday School meets weekly at 10:15 am. Jr. High Youth Group, Sr. High Youth Group every Sunday. 5th/6th Grade Youth Group, 1st Sunday of the month. Heavenly Food Pantry – fourth Thursday of the month, 2-6pm, except for Nov & Dec when it is the third Thursday. Essex Eats Out Community Dinner – 1st Friday of the month, 5:30 – 7pm.

Music includes Senior Choir, Praise Band, Junior Choir, Cherub Choir, Handbell Choir, Men’s Acapella and Ladies’ Acapella groups.

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - 130 Maple Street, Essex Junction. 878-8071. 1 mile south of the Five Corners on Maple Street / VT. Route 117. Worship Sundays at 9:30 a.m. with concurrent Church School Pre-K to High School. Handicapped-accessible facility.

Adult Study Group Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Adult Choir / Praise Band / Women’s Fellowship / Missionally active.

Korean U.M.C. Worship Sundays at 12:30 p.m. Come explore what God might be offering you!

HOLY FAMILY - ST. LAWRENCE PARISH - Essex Junction, - Mass Schedule, Saturday Vigil: 4:00pm - St. Lawrence, Sunday Morning: 8:00am - St. Lawrence, 11:00am - Holy Family, 7:30pm - Holy Family. For more information visit our web page http://www.hfslvt.org.

LIVING HOPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH - 1037 South Brownell Road, Williston ,VT 05495. A Living Hope.... a Loving God. 862-2108 | Livinghope@aol.com | www. livinghopevt.org 9:00 a.m. Children and Adult Sunday School.

10:00 a.m. Worship and Service.

MT. MANSFIELD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP - Visit www.mmuuf.org. Services are held at 9:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from September through June. 195 Vermont Route 15, Jericho (the red barn across from Packard Road).

899-2558.

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH - 4 St. James Place (off Rt. 2A at the Fairgrounds Gate F) 802-878-4014 www. stjamesvt.org The Rev. Ken Hitch v office@stjamesvt. org 8:15am Holy Eucharist Rite II (no music) 10:30am Holy Eucharist Rite II (with music) 9:20am Adult Ed: Bible Study 10:15 am Godly Play.

ST. PIUS X CHURCH - 20 Jericho Road, Essex, 878-5997 - Administrator: Rev. Charles Ranges. Masses: Saturday 4:30 pm and Sunday 9:30 am. Confessions: Saturday 3:30pm - 4:00 pm or please call 878-5331 for an appointment.

ST. THOMAS CATHOLIC CHURCH - 6 Green St., Underhill Center. Father Charles R. Danielson, Parish Priest. Weekend Masses: Saturday-4:30 p.m., Sunday-8:30. Daily Masses: Check with www.stthomasvt. com or call 899-4632.

FEB. 25-28

Friday THE LAST FIVE YEARS. Essex Community Players is proud to bring Jason

Elder Education Enrichment Lecture. The

Elder Education Enrichment group will be offering the next installment of their spring lecture series with Middlebury College Charles A. Dana Professor and Economic Department Chair, Peter Hans Matthews.

Matthews will present a lecture entitled, “Five Things Every Vermonter Should Know about the Economy.” Parking and handicap access available. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2 p.m. $5 at the door. Information: 864-3516.

Artist Reception. Darkroom Gallery will host

an artist’s reception for the “Shadow and Light” exhibition to recognize the photographers whose work was chosen for the show. The event is free and open to everyone. Drinks and light refreshments will be available. Among the 42 photographers from all over the world whose photos were selected for “Shadow & Light” are five from Vermont. Darkroom Gallery, Essex, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Information: http:// www.darkroomgallery.com/ex78

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Saturday

Introduction to Jin Shin Jyutsu Workshop.

In this workshop hosted by the Milton Public Library, learn the fundamentals of this ancient Japanese self-help healing art that was formed thousands of years ago.

Milton Public Library, Milton, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Sign up required-call 893-4644.

The Irish “Wave” in the Green Mountains.

Vince Feeney, author of a published history of “The Irish in Vermont: Finnigans, Slaters and Stonepeggers” tells the little-known story of Irish immigrants in mid-nineteenth century Vermont who fled the Irish potato famine in their homeland and settled in Vermont. This talk is a VT Humanities Council program hosted by the VT Genealogy Library and is free.

Vermont Genealogy Library, Colchester, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. Information: http://www.vtgenlib.org or 310-9285.

Karaoke. The VFW in Essex Junction will be

hosting a karaoke night, which is open to the public. VFW Post 6689, Essex Junction, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Free. Information: 8790700

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Sunday

Robert Brown’s innovative and emotionally powerful musical, “The Last Five Years,” to Memorial Hall. Director Nan Murat says she specifically wanted this venue for the show, because the space is perfect for the intimacy of this two-person performance.

The Last Five Years deals with adult themes and includes some explicit lyrics, and is recommended for audiences aged 12 and up. In keeping with Essex Community Players’ “Essex Gives Back” charitable donation program, all proceeds from concession and other purchases will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network at the Vermont Children’s Hospital. Performances will be on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., at Essex Memorial Hall in Essex Center. Tickets: $14-$18. Information: http://essexplayers.com/productions/tickets/

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Monday

Shape and share life stories. Prompts trig-

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

Contact: 878-4918.

Elder Education Enrichment Lecture. The

Elder Education Enrichment group will be offering the next installment of their spring lecture series with Peace Corps Regional Recruiter, Zoe Armstrong. Armstrong will present a lecture entitled, “Living and Working Abroad with the Peace Corps.” Parking and handicap access available. Faith United Methodist Church, South Burlington, 2 p.m. $5 at the door.

Information: 864-3516.

Introduction to Natural Sourdough. The Milton Public Library will host this informative workshop which will cover how to bake with natural sourdough. You will leave with information and recipes plus a live sourdough culture you can grow and use for baking at home. Milton Public Library, Milton, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Sign up requiredcall 893-4644.

Trivia Night. Trivia buffs gather for a meeting

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

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Tuesday

Movies at Main Street Landing: “Lolita.”

The Movies at Main Street Landing series presents the Stanley Kubrick-directed 1962 drama, “Lolita,” starring James Mason, Sue Lyon, Peter Sellers, and Shelley Winters. Main Street Landing Film House, Burlington, 7 p.m. Donations benefit a local charity. Contact: 540-3018 or www. mainstreetlanding.com/movies.

Pancake Breakfast. The Grace United Meth-

odist Church will be hosting a community pancake breakfast. The menu will include scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, coffee, and juice. All are welcomed to join us for church service. Grace United Method- Open Studio Collage Workshop. Whirled ist Church, Essex Junction. Two seatings: 8: Tree Arts Studio invited budding artists to 30 a.m. and 10:35 a.m. Contact Elizabeth: take a break from their busy lives to learn 878-5923. how to create beautiful mixed media compositions using paint, paper, fabric Stretch and Sip. Join Switchback Brewery and found objects. All creative levels welwith Sarah Quinttus, from SoulShine Power come. Whirled Tree Art Studio, Burlington, Yoga of Essex Junction for a special 12-1:30 p.m. $5-$10 suggested dona“Stretch and Sip” event. The price of tion. Information: www.whirledtree.org admission includes an all-levels 60-minute Vinyasa flow class followed by a pint or flight of your choice. Bring your own mat and quench your thirst with friends after class with a glass or two. Space is limited and pre-registration is encouraged.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes early.

The Tap Room at Switchback Brewery, Mandarin Chinese Class. The Agape ComBurlington, 10-11 a.m. $20. Register: munity Church invites language enthusiasts 651-4114. to practice the Chinese dialect spoken

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Sunday Coffee Mix and Mingle. Members

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

Information: 860-7812.

Faculty Scholarship Concert. The UVM

Department of Music and Dance presents the sixth annual Faculty Scholarship Concert. This concert marks the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the Music Building Recital Hall and Fisk Organ. A showcase of music and dance, classical and jazz, old and new for the benefit of student scholarships. Admission is by donation. All proceeds benefit the music lesson scholarship fund, subsidizing the cost of private instruction for outstanding music students. Music Building Recital Hall.

UVM, Burlington, 3-4 p.m.

Wednesday

Thursday

throughout northern and southwestern China. Agape Community Church, South Burlington, 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Information: www.burlingtonagape.org/

Bingo. The VFW in Essex Junction will be hosting a bingo night, which is open to the public. VFW Post 6689, Essex Junction, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Information: 879-0700

Ongoing Divorce Care Support Group. Divorce

is a tough road. Feelings of separation, betrayal, confusion, anger and self-doubt are common. But there is life after divorce. 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. The 13-week Divorce Care Support Group for men and women will be offered on Sunday evenings, 5 :30-7:30 pm, Feb. 28 through May 29

at the Essex Alliance Church, , Essex Junction. Register: 989-4081 or emailsandybrisson@gmail.com.

Children’s Breakfast. First and third Satur-

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

Essex Art League Meetings. Meetings hap-

pen on the first Thursday of the month. The meeting agenda includes a business and social time, and features a guest artist presentation. Essex Junction Congregational Church, Essex Junction, 9-11 a.m.

Information: www.essexartleague.com.

Craft Connection. Come to the Essex Alliance

Church community as women gather for a time of crafts and fellowship. Twice a month, Wednesday evenings. Essex Alliance Church, Essex. Contact Deb: 2382291.

Essex Eats Out Community Meals. Essex

Eats Out seeks to build community connections by providing healthy, free meals in a warm, safe and inclusive atmosphere.

Meals will be served: first Friday at First Congregational Church; second Friday at Holy Family/St. Lawrence Parish Center; third Friday at St. James Church; fourth Friday at Essex United Methodist Church; and fifth Friday when applicable at St. Pius X Church. 5:30-7 p.m. each week.

Transportation is available. Call Dawn Thursday by 9 a.m. to schedule Friday transit: 878-7622. Information: essexeatsout@gmail.com or www.essexeatsout. org.

Champlain Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group. Mary L. Guyette RN, MS, ACNSBC will answer questions about prostate cancer surgical procedures. Plus, general discussion and sharing among survivors and those beginning or rejoining the battle. Second Tuesday of each month.

Hope Lodge, 237 East Ave, Burlington, 6-8 p.m. Contact: 274-4990.

Interstitial Cystitis Support Group. Intersti-

tial cystitis (IC) is recurring pelvic pain, pressure or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region, and urinary frequency/ urgency. This is often misdiagnosed and mistreated as a chronic bladder infection.

If you have been diagnosed or have these symptoms, you are not alone. We are building a Vermont-based support group and welcome you to email bladderpainvt@gmail.com or call (802) 899-4151 for more information.

Creative Tuesdays. Artists exercise their

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

Burlington Writers Workshop. A free writing

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

Cell Phones For Soldiers. Local residents

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

Champlain Echoes. A women’s four-part

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

Community Wellness Day. Practitioners offer Reiki, Shiatsu, aromatherapy, acupressure, energy work and more to those looking to experience alternative healing. 2 Wolves Holistic Center in Vergennes, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. most Fridays. Sliding-scale donations; preregister the Tuesday prior.

Contact: 2wolvescenter@gmail.com or 870-0361.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

C ALEnDAR English As A Second Language Classes.

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

Family Support Group. Outright Vermont

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

Italian Conversation Group. Open to all

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

Toy Library Playgroup. Fridays. Ages birth

through 5 years. Memorial Hall, Essex, 9:30-11 a.m. Contact Essex Parks and Rec: 878-1342.

VCAM Access Orientation. Free. Vermont

Community Access Media, 208 Flynn Ave. 2-G, Burlington. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact:

651-9692 or www.vermontcam.org.

Colchester-Milton Rotary meeting. Thursdays.

Serving the communities of Colchester, Milton and the Champlain Islands. Hampton Inn, Colchester, 12 p.m.

Essex Rotary Meeting. Essex Rotary Meetings

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

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

Celebrate Recovery. Thursdays. This confidential 12-step recovery program puts faith in Jesus Christ at the heart of healing.

We offer multiple support groups for both men and women, such as chemical dependency, co-dependency, sexual addiction and pornography, food issues and overcoming abuse. All those 18 and older are welcome. Sorry, no childcare.

Essex Alliance Church, Essex. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., sessions begin at 7 p.m.

Information: recovery@essexalliance.org or 310-9062.

Mah Jongg. Join other Mah Jongg enthusiasts ages 50 and over at the Essex Junction

THURSDAY, FEB. 18 AARP Free Tax Prep Help. For taxpayers and low and middle incomes, especially those age 60 and older, Tak and Dorothy Ng — AARP foundation certified tax preparers — will offer 45 minute appointments.

Call 878-6955 or drop by the library’s Circ. Desk to schedule an appointment. Available until April 7. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:15 a.m., 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Champlain Valley Apiaries. Come hear the buzz about the importance of bees to our environment, and take a taste of their sweet offerings. Essex Free Library, 6-7 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 19 Songs and Stories with Matthew. Matthew Witten performs songs about our world and tells adventurous tales. For all ages. Funded by the Friends of Brownell Library. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m.

Crafternoon. Make jewelry to keep or give away.

For students Grades 4 and up. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:15-4:30 p.m.

Family Movie. Free popcorn and drinks. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 20 Chess Club. Come play. Teen chess players help you discover new moves. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Kids 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 22 AARP Free Tax Prep Help. For taxpayers and low and middle incomes, especially those age 60 and older, Tak and Dorothy Ng — AARP foundation certified tax preparers — will offer 45 minute appointments.

Call 878-6955 or drop by the library’s Circ. Desk to schedule an appointment. Available until April 7. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:15 a.m., 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Wii Games with Mike. Come join Mike to play Wii games. We have Sports Resort, MarioKart, LEGO Star Wars and LEGO Harry Potter. For kids in Grades 4-8. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3:154:15 p.m.

Star Wars Club. Max Holzman leads the Star Wars Club. This session focuses on favorite vehicles. For all ages. Popcorn and drink. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Oscar Nominee Movie Screening. Free popcorn and drinks. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 6-8:27 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 23 Library Closed for Team Building. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9am-1pm Knitting for Kids. Knit a hat with our looms. You can check them out and take them home to finish.

We have yarn, or bring your own favorite colors and knitting needles. For all skill levels. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 3-4 p.m.

Events at your

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

Tell Michael! calendar@essexreporter.com

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

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

Information: 878-0444.

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

Vacation Movie. Free popcorn and drinks. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3:30 p.m.

Latino Americans: Screening and Discussion. Onehour episodes of the landmark PBS documentary series Latino Americans: 500 Years of History with discussions led by University of Vermont professor Luis Vivanco. A Vermont Humanities Council series. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 7-9 p.m.

137 Iroquois Ave. Essex Jct, VT 879-6464

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THURSDAY, FEB. 25 AARP Free Tax Prep Help. For taxpayers and low and middle incomes, especially those age 60 and older, Tak and Dorothy Ng — AARP foundation certified tax preparers — will offer 45 minute appointments.

Call 878-6955 or drop by the library’s Circ. Desk to schedule an appointment. Available until April 7. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 9:15 a.m., 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Color a Poster. Using Dover Coloring Books, we will create two posters, each assembled from 12 individual coloring pages. Your choice: “Knights and Dragons” or “Fairy Princesses.” Come color with your friends and decorate the library. For ages 6-12. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 2-3 p.m.

Adult Evening Book Discussion. Join us as we discuss “The Sugar Queen” by Sarah Addison Allen. Copies of the book are available at the main desk. Essex Free Library, Essex Center, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

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

Story Time for Babies and Toddlers. Tuesdays.

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

Story Time for 3-5 Year Olds. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Picture books, songs, rhymes, puppets, flannel stories and early math activities for preschoolers. Brownell Library, Essex Junction, 10-10:45 a.m.

Tech Help with Clif. Offering one on one technology help. Bring in your new electronic devices and Clif will sit with you to help you learn more about them.

Please call to make an appointment. Brownell Library, Mondays, Feb. 1 and Wednesday, Feb. 3, 12-1 p.m.

Drop-in Story Time. Mondays. Reading, rhyming and crafts each week. All ages welcome. No registration required. Essex Free Library, 10:30 a.m.

Lego Club. Mondays. We have thousands of Legos for you to build awesome creations. Essex Free Library, 3:30-5 p.m.

Drop-in Knitting Group. Connect with other knitters and tackle new knitting projects. Both beginner and advanced knitters are welcome. Essex Free Library, Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Creative Writing Club. First Wednesday of each month, ages 9 and older. Let your imagination soar as you write your own stories and poems using prompts, games and other writing exercises. Essex

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

Special event coming up?

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

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

Peace of mind for your family & loved ones Call today to schedule your free consultation.

Register for one of our free seminars at www.unsworthlaw.net

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

Pet of the Week Jenna

6 year old Spayed Female Reason Here: The dogs in my previous home were causing me stress SUMMARY: Joyful Jenna is a fancy lady who knows what she wants in life! And who can blame her?! She is a gorgeous and sensitive gal who simply adores having her head and chin scratched to infinity and beyond. Jenna is a little shy at first meeting, but once this sweetie warms up to you its nothin’ but lovin’! This beauty is looking for lots of attention and a warm lap to curl up on. Does this sound like your match? Jenna is ready to move in with her new family so come meet her today!

My thoughts on: Cats & Dogs: Jenna is selective about her friends; she has lived with cats in the past and might do well with another. Active dogs scare her, but she may be ok with a calm dog who respects her space.

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

F OOD

Local funding for a local product could add up to a sweet deal

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By Phyl NEWBEck For The Essex Reporter

has Smith knows a thing or two about business and his father, Charles Smith, and cousin, Nikita Salmon, know a thing or two about maple sugaring.

Put those two knowledge sets together and you’ve got a new, local product which is being financed in a novel, and equally local, manner.

The story began three years ago when Charles Smith started serving concentrated sap from his family’s small Underhill sugarbush in mason jars at family events. In 2014, Chas Smith returned home to Vermont and took the idea a step further, forming a partnership with Vermont Hard Cider and adding carbonation to the drink, which they named, “Sap!” Using sap from Salmon’s larger sugarbush, also in Underhill, they canned 10,000 beverage units that were sold at Healthy Living and City Market.

“It resonated with consumers,” said Chas Smith. “Everybody absolutely loved it.”

This year, the family added Ben Tacka to their fledgling company to head up the sales portion of the business. The goal is to expand from 10,000 units to hundreds of thousands to be sold across Vermont and New England.

They have partnered with J.R. Sloan of Green Mountain Mainlines in East Fairfield to ensure they will have enough sap in the event the sugaring season in Underhill is below average. “We like to say that we’re crowdsourcing our sap,” said Salmon.

Expansion, however, needs more than just trees, and for that reason Sap! is partnering with Designbook, a company cofounded by another Underhill resident, Kyle Clark, to raise money. “It’s a really exciting opportunity to work with another Vermont start-up which is on the leading edge of helping small companies raise money in new ways,” said Smith. Generally, people who want to invest in a company must be

SAP! founders Chas Smith, nikita Salmon and Charlie Smith pose with their product.

Photo ContributEd

accredited; a system he said is devised to protect smaller, less sophisticated investors from making poor decisions. While Smith recognizes that this is a laudatory goal, he noted that it also creates income inequality by keeping out some potential investors who might want to be part of a new business.

That’s why Sap! is holding a two-pronged fundraising project through Designbook that is also open to smaller investors.

The fundraising has been open for some

time but the company will make a more concentrated effort to raise money starting this month. Accredited investors are invited to purchase an equity stake in the business while smaller investors are invited to take part in raising debt financing Someone who invests $10,000 can see their interest compounded by 5 percent over a six-year period and will receive “dividends” in the form of at least one free case of Sap! annually for as long as their note is outstanding. If

the company hits a specific revenue figure, those investors may be able to double their money. Only Vermonters are invited to invest.

“We’ll be one of the first companies in the country to try an entirely local automated debt raise,” Smith said. “It’s a great chance to be on the forefront of new strategies for local investments. We think it’s important for the future of Vermont and Vermont companies to promote businesses locally.”

Although initially Sap! came up with three distinct products, they have narrowed their offerings down to two. Green Label is a lightly carbonated beverage with only nine grams of sugar and 50 calories that is almost like a maple seltzer. Red Label has 16 grams of sugar and 90 calories and is considered a maple soda. “We have hopes and dreams of a lot of other product extensions,” said Smith “but we need to make the first two products first.” The company’s initial batch sold so quickly that they have had to ration the amount they’ve brought to their two retail locations.

“Starting in April,” Smith said “we hope to be in stores all over the state.”

Smith credits the rise of coconut water with creating a sea change in the beverage industry towards healthier options. “We’ve been able to make a product that meets a market demand,” he said. “There are some other maple water companies but adding carbonation is unique. I also think that part of the reason we’ll be successful is we have an authentic message and a great narrative.”

Smith sees his company as a feel-good Vermont story. “We’re keeping trees in the ground and preserving the working landscape,” he said. “We want to do well by doing good and good business should be able to do both. We’re creating community value. Sap! is about making the world a healthier place without sacrificing taste.”

Citizens Bank provides 30,000 meals, supports Vermont Foodbank

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itizens Bank has again contributed $10,000 to the Vermont Foodbank to make more food available for Vermonters in need.

This most recent gift marks the fifth consecutive year Citizens Bank has supported the Vermont Foodbank.

“Corporate partners are essential to the work

of ensuring our Vermont neighbors have enough healthy food,” said John Sayles, Vermont Foodbank CEO. “Citizens Bank has time and time again demonstrated their commitment to enriching our communities—we are so grateful for their loyal support.”

“Many of our neighbors lack reliable access to food

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on a daily basis. At Citizens Bank, we work to address this need by supporting innovative programs and organizations that provide access to nutritious food,” said Joe Carelli, president, Citizens Bank, Vermont.

“That is why we are proud to support the Vermont Foodbank in their work to fight hunger in our communities across the state.”

Funding provided by Citizens Bank will be used to distribute food directly to Vermonters in need through programs such as VeggieVanGo, the Foodbank’s newest fresh and healthy food initiative that is providing fruits, vegetables and other foods to Vermonters who are food insecure, where and when they need it most. Support from Citizens Bank helped launch VeggieVanGo, which is now working with hospitals, schools and housing sites across the state.

From left: Cassie Lindsay, donor and Corporate relations Manager and John Sayles, CEo of the Vermont Foodbank, accept a check from dan heying, regional Public Affairs Manager and rick Musiol, Jr, Senior Vice President/regional director of Public Affairs for Citizens bank. they are pictured here with hungry Kate, who represents one of the nearly 34,000 children served by the Vermont Foodbank.

Photo ContributEd

B Section The Essex Reporter February 18, 2016

Sports

A culture of confidence and cohesiveness Essex gymnastics looks to continue historic run

By Colin Flanders The Essex Reporter

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or the Essex gymnastics team, which is just days away from defending its streak of 10-straight state championship titles, it all begins with confidence.

“Even if it’s a new skill or a new routine, if you can get out there and have confidence in yourself, that’s really what shows and helps carry you through a meet,” said head coach Ashley Godin, looking on as her team began its warm-up routine; a mix of dips and twists preparing the body for the wide range of movements it will soon be expected to perform.

Large curtains separate the gymnasium into thirds, a chorus of thuds and squeaks echoing from a nearby boys’ basketball practice. The chaotic soundscape bears sharp contrast to the drowsy stretching regimen.

Godin eventually takes her place in front of the squad, which is now staring up at the ceiling, a sea of legs swaying in harmony.

In her tenth year with the team — serving five years as an assistant before taking over as head coach — Godin has experienced success most coaches, at any sporting level, would dream of. Still, she understands the importance of tempering expectations early on.

“We make it very clear at the beginning of each season that every team we’ve had, every group that we’ve had come together, is going to be different. Every year is different. You really don’t know what you’re going to have thrown at you in a season,” Godin said.

If confidence is the fuel of champions, adversity is their steel, sharpening minds and bodies along the way.

“Every year we’ve had some type of adversity,” Godin said.

And this year is no different; gymnastics programs across the state are seeing shrinking participation numbers. After the number of teams dropped to eight last season, the Vermont Principals’ Association placed the sport on a two-year probation, threatening to cut the sports’ varsity status if it couldn’t increase the participation.

Even Essex, the gymnastics juggernaut, is feeling the effects: at one point, the team boasted 22 gymnasts, forcing Godin to make cuts.

This year, there’s only 12.

The problem has been exacerbated by the lack of local feeder programs, Godin said, as both Essex Middle School and Albert D. Lawton Intermediate School no longer offer gymnastics. There’s still the club level, but it can be expensive, and often requires a yearround commitment.

SPORTS SHORTS

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his is it: February break begins on Friday afternoon. Eleven days off for winter vacation could not come at a better time. By Friday, the regular season for winter sports is complete for basketball, hockey, wrestling, cheerleading and gymnastics, with the last two taking part in state competitions this weekend. Playoffs, playdowns, postseason tourneys and middle school tournaments are happening at a furious pace. These are exciting times, even if you are just a marginal sports fan. Enjoy the break!

Freshman Angela Tiersch eyes the balance beam during Essex’s meet against Milton on Jan. 27.

photos | Kyle St. Peter

“If you don’t have gymnastics as a program in middle school, when kids feel okay to try new things, it’s harder to take that risk and try it as a freshman in high school, especially since we only have one varsity team,” Godin said.

Additionally, Godin believes it’s a lack of community knowledge and misconceptions surrounding the sport of gymnastics that hinders its growth.

“It’s such a unique sport. You can have abilities in so many different areas and gymnastics will fit. A lot of people don’t recognize that. They’ll think, ‘Oh, I have to flip and tumble on the beam and the bars,’” Godin said.

An athlete with a dance background?

“Stick them in a floor routine,” Godin said.

An athlete who excels at sprinting? “They can learn how to vault,” Godin said.

In essence, Godin is pushing back against the narrative of gymnastics as a sport often

– See Gymnastics on page 2b

Gymnastics The gymnastics team will be hosting the 2016 state championship Saturday.

Ever since the Hornets started to host the event, they’ve never lost. They have a string of 10 titles in a row and are favored to win again. Go back to current assistant coach Mary Krug’s freshman season — 2006, I think — when she won the all-around competition. Might have pronounced her name wrong once, but was corrected, and then the rest of Vermont remembered how to say it.

Sad to hear the rumors of ending the sport next year.

Cheerleading The cheerleaders will be competing in their state competition Saturday too, with Vergennes High School hosting the big event. Based on their victory in the NVACs, the Hornets are the team to beat!

Junior Abbie Gehsmann jumps during her floor routine on Jan. 27.

The girls’ hockey team wasted no time bouncing back from its first loss in over a month as it cruised by South Burlington behind Maddie Young’s two-goal, one assist effort Saturday.

Olivia Miller-Johnson and Piper Desorcie also scored and tallied an assist, and Molly Bruyns rounded out the Hornet scoring with a goal of her own.

Lindsay Hallowell recorded 17 saves. Essex, who won last year’s state championship, moved to 14-4-1 on the season.

Their final contest of the season was on Wednesday in a game that was held after The Essex Reporter went to print.

Boys’ hockey The boys’ hockey team edged South Burlington 3-2 on Friday night, bouncing back from a 2-1 loss to Spaulding earlier in the week. Against the Rebels, the Hornets exploded to a 3-0 lead. Nick McGovern notched a goal and an assist, while Ethan Bartlett and Jonah Janaro scored as well. They are 12-4-2 with one game left to play at BFA-St. Albans. They have locked down the No. 2 ranking for the postseason.

Girls’ hockey The girls lost to Spaulding 4-2 on senior night. They too rebounded with a convincing 5-1 win over the Jake Orrled South Burlington Rebels. Maddie Young scored twice and added an assist. Piper Desorcie and Olivia MillerJohnson each chipped in with one goal and one assist. They too play BFA-St. Albans to complete the regular season.

At press time, they held the D-I No. 1 seed.

Boys’ basketball The boys’ basketball team fell to Colchester 43-38 and to Mt. Mansfield 57-45 to conclude the regular season with a 7-13 record. Jackson Dwyer and Eli Baez scored 13 and 12 in the latter game. If my calculations are correct, and sometimes they are a tad off, the Hornets may be paired against Rutland in a first round match-up. JVs went 1-1 last week, sneaking by Colchester 42-38 before losing their finale to Mt. Mansfield 52-38. In the victory over the Lakers — the Hornets’ eighth in a row — Robby Meslin led the way with 14 while Anthony Hope had 9 in the second half. The Hornets were 12-14 from the line in the third and fourth quarters. Against the Cougars, Meslin canned 14 as the team struggled to convert from the field. Essex completed a fine season ending up at 13-7. Frosh boys beat Rutland on Saturday to finish 10-8. They looked very good versus the Red Raiders.

Top: Essex’s Avery MacGillivray shoots a shot on goal Saturday afternoon against South Burlington.

Bottom: Essex sophomore Kaitlyn Butkus tries to jam in the rebound against South Burlington Saturday afternoon at Cairns Arena.

The Hornets celebrate a first-period goal against South Burlington Saturday afternoon at Cairns Arena. photos | Kyle St. Peter

Sports schedules Alpine skiing

Legal Notices • Classifieds • Schools

Joe Gonillo

Girls’ hockey looking strong as playoffs near

2/22 EHS @ NVAC Slalom (@ Stowe) – 9:30 a.m.

2/23 EHS @ NVAC Giant Slalom (@ Sugarbush) – 9:30 a.m.

ALSO IN THIS SECTION:

Girls’ basketball

Gymnastics

2/18 EHS vs. Champlain Valley – 7:30 p.m.

2/20 EHS @ Essex (States) – 2 p.m.

Cheerleading

Wrestling

2/20 EHS @ Vergennes (States) – TBA

2/20 EHS @ Spaulding (JV States) – TBA

Girls’ basketball The girls’ hoop squad went 1-1 last week, whipping Spaulding 51-37 with all players contributing and then dropping a strange game to BFA-St. Albans on Thursday evening, 48-42.

Essex led the entire first half before the Comets rallied to tie the game.

The Hornets are ranked fourth in the D-I standings. The JV girls went 1-1 as well, defeating Spaulding and falling in a tight game versus BFA. In the Spaulding game, EHS won 45-20.

Leading scorers were Kelly Lyon (9) and Regan Day (8). Going back a bit, they also clubbed Burlington 48-21. Every player scored versus the Seahorses as Abby Couture led the team with 8 points, followed by Molly Kenny with 6.

Both teams have two games remaining — South Burlington and home against CVU on Thursday to end their regular

– See shorts on page 2b

2a 2b

The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

S pORTS EMS girls win Colchester tournament

ShortS from page 1b

seasons. The JV B team won its first two games of the season last week 18-12 over BFA-Fairfax and then 30-22 over Rutland on Saturday. At 2-9, they have one game left versus Chelsea.

EMS BASkEtBAll The Essex Middle School Eagles girls’ basketball team won the Colchester Tournament, defeating Missisquoi 25-19 before beating Colchester in the championship game by a score of 47-23. Leading for the Eagles was eighth-grader Izzy Mager, who earned the MVP Award for the tournament. She hit an unprecedented 11-for-12 from the free throw line. Noelle Lyon scored 11 points going 7-for-8 from the line, followed by Rachel Yandow with 9 points. The Eagles will now play in the much anticipated ADL Tournament for their final games of the season.

the Essex Middle School girls’ A team won the Colchester tournament on Saturday, beating Colchester in the championship game 47-23. top: From left, Coach Matt McGeary, Logan Pollard, Maddie borch, Katie bruyns, izzy Mager, noelle Lyon, Caitlin McGeary, Jessie rose, Emma Whitney and Coach Gregg Lyon. bottom: From left, Christina McKivergan, Amanda Lyon, rachel yandow, Ally Lyon and Cindy Sheeran.

Photo ContributEd

GyMNAStIcS from page 1b

viewed in terms of its exclusivity.

“That’s the beauty of it; anyone can do it, be successful at it and feel confident,” Godin said. “If I could tell a freshman coming in, I’d say just go for it. Try it. See if it’s something you enjoy, and don’t be intimidated by the level of athletes we have already. We’d love to expand, bring that fun back in and allow it to be extended to other kids.”

While the sport’s probation status looms over this season, Essex seems to have its blinders tightly secured; the team posted its best score of the season on Feb. 10 against South Burlington, the final meet before states.

Godin credits this year’s success to the team’s outstanding chemistry.

“I haven’t seen a team this well blended and connected in their performance, as well simply day to day, in a couple years.

The energy alone that stems from that has been contagious, and has really fueled the whole season. Whether they’re competing in the all around, or they’re a kid that encourages their teammates and brings the energy to the team, or just brings a smile every day to practice and keeps everyone positive, there’s something we look for in everybody,” Godin said.

From an outsider’s perspective, highlighting a gymnastic team’s cohesiveness may seem counterintuitive, as perhaps in no other sport is an individual’s performance judged so precisely — down to the very tenth of a point.

At times, performances carry an almost mythic feel; all eyes resting on a sole gymnast atop, say, the balance beam, towering above while each movement is calculated, each misstep recorded.

Yet, for the Essex gymnasts, who make a point to cheer on their teammates during each event, even individual performances become a team event.

“I breathe,” said sophomore Hannah Poquette when asked what’s running through her head during her routines. “If I let my teammates in and listen to them, I calm down. Then it’s just go with the flow; my mind will know what to do with my body,” Poquette said.

Godin said she’ll often ask the gymnasts to picture themselves out on an event with no one to support them, a thought exercise aimed at inspiring such togetherness.

It seems to have paid off.

As sophomore Anna Charland puts it: “We work hard, but without team bonding, there wouldn’t be Essex gymnastics.”

This support system is imperative for a team with consistently high expectations, an aspect highlighted by junior Lindsay Gleason.

“Our team is more of a family. We’re all really close and it’s always a really positive environment to be around,” Gleason said.

Poquette, who has participated in gymnastics on and off in her youth, the sport was originally viewed in terms of its individuality. That’s changed, however.

“I learned how much grit life takes and how much hard work you need to put in. Gymnastics can be very stressful, but with your teammates — if you have good people surrounding you — you can do it,” Poquette said.

While the sport’s fate has yet to be decided, Saturday will provide Essex yet another chance to make history, to further its place as one of the most successful high school sports programs Vermont has ever seen.

Yet, for Godin, it’s the journey that makes it all so sweet.

“We tell them: ‘If you can look back and be proud of every day you were in the gym, we’ve won already.’ So it doesn’t really matter; at the end of the meet, it’s going to be one day.

You can only prepare so much for that one day. But if we put in every single day up to that point, we will do what we’ll do and we’ll be happy with it,” Godin said.

ADl BASkEtBAll toUrNAMENt The Albert D. Lawton Invitational basketball tournament is happening this week. Six Chittenden County middle school teams will be competing for the title in both the boys’ and girls’ categories: Essex Middle School, Camel’s Hump, Edmunds, Colchester, Tuttle and ADL. The ADL girls and the Edmunds boys are defending champions. The schedule reads three games on each day, beginning at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Saturday’s games begin at 3:30 p.m. The public is invited to all games.The entry fees for daily tournament games are just $2, while children fourth grade and under admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

WrEStlING The wrestlers had a solid week. On Monday, they traveled to Randolph and defeated the Ghosts 42-12 and the Mt. Abe Eagles 40-24. On Saturday, they competed in the NVAC Championships in St. Johnsbury. In the quarterfinals it was Essex 47, Spaulding 21. The semis saw the Hornets beat their hosts, St. Johnsbury, 44-30.

Champlain Valley then defeated Essex in the finals 4230 as the team placed second in the NVAC. Hornet John Stawinski shared the Outstanding Wrestler Award with Brandon Cousino. Essex and Mt. Mansfield also shared the Team Sportsmanship Award. This week it’s the JV states in Barre. Next week, the state finals.

MIScEllANEoUS Some great Super Bowl commercials last week.

Most were funny, short and sweet, while a few were outstanding. My favorites were the people, adults, kids and especially babies who were linked to birth nine months after their parents’ favorite team won the big game. Sadly, there were no Dallas Cowboy babies but an adult female now in her early 20s. The other one I enjoyed (spontaneous laughter ensued) was the Doritos commercial, where the mom is having an ultrasound while the dad munches on the chips. They notice the unborn baby reacting and following the movement of the Doritos. Mom is frustrated that dad is enjoying himself and throws the bag of chips across the room when — BOOM — junior is born. Guess everyone likes Doritos.

Pitchers and catchers reporting as you read this.

The EHS spring sports sign-up meeting is on Wednesday, March 9. Register on the EHS athletic website ASAP. Condolences to the Bove family on the passing of Dick Bove last Friday. His parents opened the cafe on Dec. 7, 1941, when he was 4 years old. Bove ran the business with his sons, Rick and Mark Bove, for many, many years. I remember when his dad passed away in the 90s.

My wife and I attended the Burlington wake, then had a meal at Boves in his honor. Condolences to the family.

Happy Birthday to England friend Julie Griffiths, Town Rec Director Ally Vile, niece Stacey Gonillo, former WSI Dayna Slocum Davis, War Eagle Dave Peacock, sprinter Trevor Yandow, state record shot put holder Kristine Isham Fleming and social studies teacher Brian Walsh.

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3b 3a

The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

Upcoming Events Auditions. Stowe Theatre Guild is excited to announce open auditions for their third production of the 2016 season, “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Auditions will be held in two sessions, Feb. 19 and 20 at the Town Hall Theatre. Show information, character descriptions, and more can be found on our website: stowetheatre.com, and you can contact Jane Harissis at: vitsivan@aol.com. w w w. E s s e x R e p o r t er . c o m / a r t s - a n d - e n t er ta i n m e n t

Vermont’s winter scene

Where arts and the alpine define the landscape

A

s if stunning vistas and the joy of an exhilarating winter sport were not enough, the state’s ski resorts and communities also offer a cultural immersion that is equal parts pride and pleasure. While Vermont’s ski resorts are well known for their local beer and farm-to-plate offerings, they’re also virtual galleries and exhibition halls for Vermont artists; tastefully outfitted lodges and rocking, local apres bands are just the beginning.

A deeper look at the resorts’ “Made in Vermont” vibe reveals mountains of art to be discovered.

“According to the 2012 U.S. Census, ‘Vermont ranks third in the nation for artists as a percentage of the workforce, second for fine artists and writers, and eighth for both musicians and photographers,’” Kira Bacon, Vermont Arts Council communications manager said.

“The huge presence of the arts and artists is undeniably part of what has sculpted Vermont’s creative culture.

The arts should — and arguably do — have the same allure as the state’s beloved landscape, its beer-food culture, and its skiing.”

For many skiers and riders, when the lifts stop, the arts begin. Ski resorts and ski towns offer an abundance of arts and culture venues; it’s common and welcome to see visitors sporting “helmet-head” at concerts and galleries.

A quick drive along the mountain access road will readily reveal local makers, performing arts venues, and thriving hubs for some of the state’s dozens of arts organizations.

A sampler of arts and après arts activities at resorts and nearby mountain towns: That Okemo Mountain Resort brims with so much original artwork is not happenstance; art is a personal passion of Co-owner Diane Mueller, herself an artist with a lifelong commitment to the arts. “I think it’s really important that the experience people have here is related to who we are,” said Mueller. “Featuring local artists is really important.” The resort has a wealth of exclusively New England artists’ works on site, including artwork for Jackson Gore’s 284 rooms and public spaces, as well as a commissioned series of paintings by Vermont Artist Donald Saaf, located in Epic at Solitude Village.

After mastering moguls at Okemo or Killington, head to Rutland’s Chaffee Arts Center and Paramount Theatre for nationally known entertainers appearing in an exquisitely restored 1912 opera house. Also along Route 4, the Crossroad of Vermont Byway, there’s the Carving Studio and Sculpture Center and Quechee Club, a private ski resort that offers an annual Artisan Fair with more than 20 Vermont artists in attendance early in

Eric Tobin’s work is on display at the Visions of Vermont Gallery at Smugglers’ Notch.

name just a few.

At the foot of Smugglers’ Notch Resort, the village of Jeffersonville has been a haven for landscape painters for the last century. Visitors will see plein air artists along the roadsides, particularly in autumn.

In town, the Mary Bryan Gallery and Visions of Vermont Gallery offer exceptional opportunities to appreciate or purchase the works of local artists and special exhibits.

At Rikert Nordic Center, the trails lead through forests, old farm fields and to many writers’ delight, also to the historic Robert Frost Summer Cabin. While skiing in this Vermont Poet Laureate’s footsteps, it’s easy to understand the inspiration this area has offered to so many visiting writers, students and skiers.

New this season, Sugarbush Resort partnered with Burlington Paint and Sip to offer apres arts evenings during busy holiday weeks.

The resort’s events calendar also offers special arts events, like Snow Drawing with Sonja Hinrichsen. At the resort, you’ll regularly see current exhibits of the works of Photographer Sandy Macys in the Gatehouse and Farmhouse Lodges.

At Stowe Mountain Resort, the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center’s calendar of national acts is likely the best-known arts offering. But “Made in Vermont” features are also found in the details here too. Within Stowe Mountain Lodge, functional art items like custom-made lamps by Simon Pearce, pottery by Miranda Thomas, and furniture by Charles Shackleton offer up comfort and artistic integrity.

There are also classes for arts enthusiasts, like Furniture Making with Turner Mill Timbers; where students learn basic woodworking, joinery and finish techniques to produce log furniture that they can take home at the completion of the course.

If Vermont’s peaks and arts have piqued your interest in Vermont arts events, visit VermontArts2016.com.

At Bolton Valley Resort, avid skier, mountain volunteer and in-house artist Natasha Bogar’s local landscapes “canvas” the resort’s lodge, tavern and hotel.

the season.

The new Base Lodge at Stratton Mountain Resort has the distinction of artful illumination. Skiers can appreciate the lodge’s hand-forged lighting and chandeliers, made by the nation’s oldest and largest commercial forge, Hubbardton Forge in Castleton.

Also onsite, ski photography icon, Hubert Schriebl’s works on display add the finishing touches to the new gallery-quality alpine space. While there, you may also hear local favorites, the Bondville Boys performing in the new Grizzly’s space.

At Bolton Valley Resort, avid skier, mountain volunteer and inhouse artist Natasha Bogar’s local landscapes “canvas” the resort’s lodge, tavern and hotel. She offers BYOB Paint Nights on the mountain several times throughout the season. Her landscapes, of which many are original works for sale, are of Bolton Valley vistas and feature dynamic use of light and color reflected on snow. And while technically not a ski town, Burlington is just 20 miles from Bolton and offers dozens of arts venues, galleries and opportunities to purchase arts exclusively “Made in Vermont,” like Burlington City Arts, the Flynn Center and Frog Hollow State Craft Center to

Drawing With Charcoal And Chalk. On Feb. 27, Artists’ Mediums will be hosting a drawing class led by Robert Brunelle.

Students will learn how to use charcoal sticks, charcoal pencils and chalk to compose drawings on tinted paper. Topics covered include: blending, shadows and light, using the paper as mid-tones and preserving your drawings using fixative. Charcoal is quick and easy to use and is ideal for drawing portraits. Materials needed: graphite pencils, erasers, triangles, ruler, colored pencils, fine markers and drawing paper. Sign up deadline, Feb. 24. Artists’ Medium, Williston, 1-3 p.m. $40. Information: http://vtmakeart.com/2016/01/09/ drawing-with-charcoal-and-chalk/ Call for Artists. The 10th annul Discover the Heart of the Islands: Open Farm and Studio Tour will be taking place this summer on July 9 and 10 and is looking for local artists to exhibit and demonstrate their work. All artists will be clustered in 14 different locations around South Hero, North Hero, Grand Isle and Isle Lamotte.

All venues will have an appropriate number of artist spaces for exhibiting and demonstrating work. This event allows people to visit vineyards, farms, gardens, art studios, galleries, and farmers’ markets. Meet the artists, agricultural producers and their animals living and working within sight of, and sometimes at the edge of Lake Champlain. Registration for artists before Feb. 5 is $50, after this the price increases. Information: http://www.openfarmandstudio.com

Current Exhibits Student Exhibition. Students of the Fine Arts department of Mount Mansfield Union High School will exhibit their favorite pieces at the Emile A Gruppe Gallery from through Feb. 21.

Unique art in drawing, painting, advanced placement studio art, fine metal, pottery, and both digital and darkroom photography are represented. Emile A Gruppe Gallery, Jericho. Gallery hours: ThursdaySunday, 10:00 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment. Information: 899-3211 or http://www.emilegruppeallery.com/ Matthew Thorsen Photography. Matthew Thorsen is a uniquely talented, award-winning photographer. Thorsen began his journey in photography at an early age as he founded and presided over his high school photo club. After leaving UVM and concurrently winning Kodak’s largest photo contest, he and his camera packed up and traversed Asia. From there, he has amassed a library of images that run the gamut from the majestic to the macabre. This exhibition includes a broad selection of Thorsen’s interests including personal family photos, newsworthy Vermont individuals, and selections from his acclaimed “Sound Proof” multimedia exhibit of rock performance and artist photos. Please note exhibition contains mature content.

On display through Feb. 27. Amy Tarrant Gallery, Burlington.

Gallery Hours: Saturdays, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Information: http://www. flynncenter.org/performances-events/amy-e-tarrant-gallery.html Najawa: A Story of Palestine. A 45-foot “street comic” tells the story of a Palestinian woman’s life, created by local artist Michelle Sayles in collaboration with artist and educator Jen Berger and Vermonters for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel. On display through March 1. Fletcher Free Library Mezzanine Balcony, Burlington.

Gallery open during normal library hours. Information: http://www. fletcherfree.org/programming.html Blue Ribbons and Burlesque: The Country-Fair Photography of Charles Fish. The black and white photographs of Charles Fish capture nature and nurture, theatrical illusion, the pursuit of excellence, and even the guilty pleasures of fair food. This remarkable exhibit will be included with the admission fee to the museum until July 2016. Vermont History Museum, Montpelier. Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Information: http:// vermonthistory.org/visit/vermont-history-museum For more listings visit: www.essexreporter.com/arts-and-entertainment

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

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5b 5a

The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

Friday at 5 p.m. for display ads

CONTACT US

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

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

DRIVING SCHOOL TEEN DRIVER ED is being offered by the Right Way Driving School at Essex High from May 3 – June 16. Classes will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-6. The cost is $750. To register and for additional information visit www. therightwaydrivingschool.com or call 372-4791 SERVICES Buying or selling a home? Lafayette Painting can make your property stand out with a beautiful, fresh paint job.

Our professional, experienced crews are ready to help.

Call 863-5397 or visit LafayettePaintingInc.com FOR SALE CUISINART MULTI-POT, with glass cover. New in box paid $40 take $30. 802485-8266 COOKIE JAR, ANTIQUE slanted glass country store candy, $40. 802-4858266 CRYSTAL DISH, ROUND, beautiful antique with designs. 10» in diameter. Handle in center. $50. 802658-1636 BATHROBE, NEW, LADIES’ heavy bathrobe with belt. 100% cotton, size M. Black with white designs. $20. 802-6581636 HAT, LADIES’, NEW, light purple, beautiful. Has brim and flaps that cover ears. Size 7 1/4. $10. 802-6581636 JACKET, MEN’S, NORTH FACE dark blue, size XXL machine washable, never worn $30. 802-4858266 LEVI’S, 2 PAIR, one men’s 505’s and one men’s 550’s.

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LOUNGER, BODY GARMENT, adult, garment by day, comforter by night. 64” x 78”.

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TOTE, NEW, WITH handles, 21”x13”, beautiful. $10. 802-6581636 ASIAN DOLL, COLLECTIBLE, beautiful, by Danbury Mint $75. 802485-8266 BYERS CHOICE HORSE, collectable, retired, black with pack never on display $100.

OBO. 802-4858266 CERAMIC CAT, BLACK, Vintage collectible with beautiful green eyes. 14” high 10” wide $30. 802485-8266 CERAMIC CAT, VINTAGE collectible Maltese ceramic cat 15” inches high 12” wide very pretty $30. 802-4858266 PORCELAIN DOLL, VICTORIAN, 12”h. light pink satin

dress. In wicker carriage, 14.5”L X 9.5”w X 4”d X 10”h., lined with satin, decorated with roses, bows and pearl beads. Carriage is musical. Asking $50. 802-848-3336 PRINTER, HP, WIFI built-in. Ink, CD, manual included. $75. 802-868-6364 TEDDY BEAR, WHITE, 36”. Made in Vermont at Vermont Teddy Bear Company. New condition, great valentine.

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EXERCISE BIKE, EXERPEUTIC Recumbent. New. $100. 802-868-9425 BOOKSHELVES, 2, WITH 5 shelves.

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PRINT, FRAMED, PHALAENOPSIS orchid, very beautiful, professional frame 36 x 24 bring Summer into your house $90. OBO 802-4858266 SOFA AND RECLINER, $40. for each or $70. for both. 802868-7975 BIRD CAGE STAND, vintage with seed catcher and night covers or stand for a house plant $45. 802-485-8266 CREWEL, HAND STITCHED, with flowers, framed 19 x 24 very pretty $60.

OBO. 802-485-8266 FRAMED OCEAN FISH print brightly crisp colors professional frame 31.5 x 20.5 $80. OBO.

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VINTAGE COOKIE JAR, and lid. Bartlett Collins Christmas Holly. Indiana glass $30. 802-485-8266 BUNNY, ADORABLE WITH white apron and red heart design 4’ tall, Fits over handle upright vacuum or anything else you might want $50. 802-485-8266

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nean-style, matching set. One is of a Senorita, one is of a matador. Each 14” x 26”.

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The United Church of Underhill Is seeking a part-time (4-6 hours per week) piano accompianist. This is a paid position from mid-September through mid-June. We would like the accompanist to start as soon as possible.

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GUITARS, (3), HARMONY Beginners Acoustic guitars.

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One red, one blue, one brown with soft shell case. Asking $50. each. 802868-7613 ELECTRIC STOVE, DURAFLAME, new, with heater, adjustable heater with thermostat and adjustable flame. Has instruction book and box. $60. 802658-1636

Town of Essex Student Intern Position The Town of Essex Public Works Department is receiving applications from civil or environmental engineering students entering their sophomore, junior or senior year of college this fall for summer student intern positions.

Contact the Town of Essex Public Works Department for information and application requirements at 878-1344.

The Town of Essex is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Town of Essex Quotation Request Cleaning Services for 81 Main Street The Town of Essex is seeking price quotes for cleaning services at the Town offices, 81 Main Street. Bid packages are available at the Town Public Works office, 5 Jericho Road, Essex Center or by contacting 878-1344.

Sealed bids will be received at the Town Public Works office, or mailed to the Town of Essex, Public Works Department, 81 Main Street, Essex Jct., VT 05452 until 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. Questions can be directed to the Public Works Office at 878-1344.

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Marketing/Sales Representative (Essex/Colchester)

The world of news is rapidly changing and The Essex Reporter and Colchester Sun are changing and growing with it. We are looking for smart, creative people who love challenge and change and are passionate about improving the quality of life for our communities.

We have an opportunity for a sales consultant who wants to win in the print and digital marketplace and work with energy and passion to provide our clients with excellent results and care.

As a sales representative, you will provide clear and concise proposals to customers, providing the product mix that best fits their marketing needs.

Ideally, you present a positive, professional sales approach, are persuasive with strong closing skills and articulate and well spoken.

Candidates should have prior sales experience with the ability to assess customer needs and make appropriate recommendations in a short timeframe.

To be successful at The Essex Reporter and Colchester Sun, you must be a mature, curious and ambitious person who is excited by challenge and the opportunity to make a difference. If you are passionate about making your customers successful and have proven sales experience, we want you on our team.

Email resumé and cover letter to emerson@samessenger.com

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TOWN OF ESSEX PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA/PUBLIC HEARING March 10, 2016 - 6:30 P.M. POLICE COMMUNITY ROOM, 145 MAPLE ST., ESSEX JCT., VT Champlain Community Services is a progressive, intimate, developmental services provider agency with a strong emphasis on self-determination values and individual & family relationships.

Shared Living Provider: Provide residential supports to an individual in your home or theirs. A generous stipend, paid time off (respite) and comprehensive training & supports are provided.

• Live with an intelligent man in Burlington who enjoys his job, being a part of his community and is a great conversationalist.

• Provide a part time home for a humorous gentleman with autism who enjoys walking, crunching numbers, drawing and bowling.

• Provide a home for an older gentleman with increasing medical needs who enjoys watching the hustle and bustle of an active household.

• Live with a laid back gentleman in his Winooski home who enjoys relaxing, going to baseball games, running errands and mall walking.

For more information contact Jennifer Wolcott, jwolcott@ccs-vt.org or 655-0511 ext. 118 Community Inclusion Facilitators: Provide one on one inclusion supports to an individual with an intellectual disability or autism. Help folks lead fulfilling lives, reach their goals and be productive members of their community. We currently have several positions with comprehensive benefit packages.

Send your resume and cover letter to staff@ccs-vt.org These are great opportunities to join a distinctive developmental service provider during a time of growth

www.ccs-vt.org

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Public Comments Consent Agenda: • Site Plan Amendment: Keurig Green Mountain is proposing 5 additional parking lot lights located at 30 Gauthier Drive in the Industrial Zoning District. Tax Map 9, Parcel 2.

• Simple Parcel: P + M Investment Corp. is proposing to create a 49.2 acre parcel and a 259.3 acre parcel on property located at 122 Skunk Hollow Road in the Conservation & Industrial Zones. Tax Map 4, Parcel 5.

Sketch Plan – Public Hearing: Tom Chase is proposing a 28 Planned Unit Development-Residential (PUD-R), on a 10 acre parcel located at 73 Jericho Road in the Residential Development, Tax Map 51, Parcel 14.

SITE PLAN/ MASTER PLAN: Rick Bove is proposing to construct a 17,240 f.t.2 three-story, 48 residential building to accommodate a congregate housing facility and a 4,041 s.f. commercial space, located at 10 Carmichael Street in the Mixed Use-Commercial Zoning District, & Business Design Control Overlay District. Tax Map 91, Tax Parcel 1.

Minutes (February 11, 2016) Other Business.

Note: Proposed agendas, site plans, staff reports and draft & approved minutes can be viewed online at www.essex.org or stop into our temporary office located at 42 Allen Martin Drive between 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. to view application materials. Staff is available to discuss development proposals.

Members of the public are encouraged to speak during the public to be heard agenda item, during a public hearing, or, when recognized by the chair, during consideration of a specific agenda item. The public will not be permitted to participate when a motion is being discussed, except when specifically requested by the chair. (24 VSA Section 4464(a) (1) (c)) This meeting will be taped by channel 17.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

S CHOOLS Hiawatha Highlights Volunteers highlight: A huge thank you from the Hiawatha school community to our parent volunteers.

Many parents are making huge contributions to the quality of education by volunteering their time. Many volunteers participate in the Four Winds Program that teaches science and nature through an overarching big idea, which enhances learning for children and provides outdoor classroom experiences.

The volunteers in the PTO are very active as well throughout the year organizing fun, collaborative, social events that reinforce the sense of community within our school. Other parents volunteer their skills and talents in the classroom as part of the curriculum. Many are also behind the scenes volunteering for particular events by baking, rallying other parents, making posters and so on. No matter how you contribute to the school, you are invaluable and very much appreciated. reminder from the nurse: Please have your child bring and wear a coat, snow pants, gloves/mittens, a hat and boots. Please also remember to bring an alternative pair of shoes to wear in school. Thank you. reminders: *No school during February Break — Feb. 22 through March 1. School resumes on March 2. Have a wonderful and safe break, and see you in March.

Second-graders are wowed by parent volunteers during the Four Winds egg in a bottle experiment.

FMS Understanding autism

When you hear “autism,” many things both positive and negative probably come to mind. On one hand, autism can have a student functioning on a different wave length soaking in all kinds of knowledge pertaining to their interests; on the other hand, you see the same student struggling to understand social cues from peers and adults. As autism becomes more prevalent in society, our general understanding of this disability needs to be broadened. “Autism actually is a difficulty connecting and bonding with others, rather than how Autism is typically treated, as a problem of inappropriate behavior that must be extinguished, altered, and retrained.”

While there is a lot to understand about autism, years of teaching has revealed to me that you need to learn the student not the disability. Yes, you often see or hear of behaviors that might make you feel fear or a hesitation to interact; however, the opposite should be done. Students with autism need repeated experience in connecting and bonding with others in appropriate ways to help build positive social communication skills. It is important to interact with students at their level and become a part of their world to help grow that connection and bonding to the world outside their own.

Quick strategies to help your child foster positive growth in a friend with autism: • Stay calm, positivity and consistency are keys to success • “Never push, always invite.”

• Model appropriate responses/behaviors • Build a bond by initiating authentic participation in his/ her interests and activities • Allow processing time, check for understanding • Patience, time, and clear conversation What I would like to leave you with is the understanding that even if the child might not understand it now, tomorrow, or the next day, all students no matter the disability are “capable of limitless growth.”

GARRY'S BARBER SHOP

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ETSD Events

M. 9:30 AM -6 PM Sat. T-F. 7:30 AM -6 PM S AT . 7:30 AM -4 PM

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T-F. 7:30 AM -6 PM EES S AT . 7:30 AM -4 PM ARBER HOP HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE K March 3: Incoming Hydrating Shampoo Liter $15 Shampoo design cream Hydrating Conditioner BlowParent Meeting , 6-7 p.m.

LogicsDesign $8 each Conditioner gel or FMS 3 products for $20: Shine serum Contour paste Feb. 15-19: Fifth-grade Team Fusion iscream holding Blow design GelShampoo cream Sculpting whip a raffle to support spring BIOLAGE Design gelStudents and RootConditioner lifter field trips.

the EhS dECA team recently attended the state competition. team members, from left to right, are omkar borse, Grace Murphy, henry Weith and Caleb Weis.

DEcA team: Congratulations to EHS DECA team members who attended the state conference and competition last week. We were fortunate to have Grace Murphy, Omkar Borse, Henry Weith and Caleb Weis attend on behalf of our club’s very first year of DECA, and they represented our school exceptionally well. We are proud of their achievement.

Band rehearsal: Essex High School hosted eighthgrade band students from Westford, ADL and EMS on Feb. 3 for a joint rehearsal with the high school Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble. Students returned in the evening for a “Bridge Concert,” in which all Essex band ensembles performed. The evening concluded with a performance by all 110 band students.

This concert aimed to bridge the gap between eighth grade and high school for the eighth-grade band students.

Highlights of the evening performance included the Essex Jazz Junction performing Buffalo Head and Feelin’ Good; the Wind Ensemble performing March, Song Without Words, I’ll Love My Love, and Fantasia on the Dargason; the Essex Jazz Orchestra performing Sir Duke, Fever and Sing, Sing, Sing; and the Symphonic Band performing our national anthem.

The evening concluded with bands combining to play Seven Nation Army, Kentucky 1800, and everyone’s favorite, Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

It was a wonderful experience for our area musicians and a treat for all who attended. Band directors Adam Sawyer from ADL, Bob Stone from EMS, Rebecca Nowak from Westford and Heather Finlayson from EHS also wish to thank everyone who made the delightful evening possible, especially Ben Lawrence, Essex Band Boosters and Jeff Goodrich of EHS.

802-878-4010

Two EMS students, Kaitlyn Myers and Laura Printon, and ETSD Child Nutrition Coordinator Bonnie Szarkowski. attended a reception at the statehouse on Feb. 10. The EMS students enjoyed their time at the statehouse and being part of this exciting event.

The following article comes from quotes from Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets about the Farm to School Program: “Farm to School programs are a vital tool we can use to promote agricultural literacy in schools so that, from an early age, students understand the value of nutrition, develop healthy eating habits, and appreciate where their food comes from,” said Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Chuck Ross. “My congratulations to this year’s Farm to School grant recipients. We, at the Agency of Agriculture, look forward to supporting your planning and implementation efforts over the coming year, and working together to foster healthier and more resilient children, communities, and farms throughout Vermont.”

Sen. Michael Sirotkin, who serves on the senate agriculture committee, has become a dedicated supporter of farm-to-school, explaining, “Farm to School is one of those rare win-win-win investments in our children›s future Students learn about nutrition, eat healthier and well fed children are more ready to learn. Moreover, farm promotes community and invests in local sustainable farming. Vermont policy makers should be striving for 100 percent participation by our schools in our growing Farm to School programs.”

This year, several more schools were granted funds than otherwise would have been possible, thanks to the financial support of Leigh Merinoff, of Meadows Bee Farm in Windham. Merinoff, inspired by the positive impacts of

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Essex Middle School students get ready for the “Stream of Lights” lantern festival. brendyn byrne, nicholas reardon, and Jamie Goodrow worked as a team to arrive at good solutions for creating this challenging lantern, called “the blimp.”

Photo | MiChELLE bAdJi

EMS students Kaitlyn Meyers and Laura Printon, EtSd Child nutrition Coordinator bonnie Szarkowski and Leigh Merinoff, of Meadows bee Farm in Windham, pose with Chuck ross, Vermont Secretary of Agriculture.

Photo | ALi ZiPPAro

farm to school programming on students, has invested in the program in hopes of further increasing positive impacts and inspiring other investors.

Addressing her support, Merinoff said, «I am hopeful that we will be able to find public support to fully fund Vermont’s Farm to School Program so that we will raise the healthiest and happiest young students, knowledgeable about where their food comes from, how to grow it and what to eat for health. The breadth of Vermont’s Farm to School Program will be a model for our country. Thanks to all of the legislatures, teachers and others for offering something unique and immensely valuable, the health and well-being of our youth.”

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Summit Street Parent Teacher Organization has been named the recipient of a 2016 Shade Structure Program Grant by the American Academy of Dermatology.

The grant will provide $8,000 for the purchase of a permanent shade structure on the Summit Street School playground in Essex Junction. The structure, a pavilion, is part of the natural playground efforts at Summit Street School and will be installed this summer. Summit Street PTO is one of 19 organizations to receive a 2016 Shade Structure Program Grant from the Academy. Since the Academy founded the Shade Structure Grant Program in 2000, more than 300 shade structure grants have been awarded to organizations across the country.

Summit Street School has had three years of sun safety assemblies for all students and sun safety is a part of the second- and third-grade health curriculum. Children and teens are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of the sun because of their time spent outside. Natural Playground co-chair Kelly Adams said, “We are thrilled to be a recipient of this generous grant and are glad to be able to fulfill our commitment to provide more shade on the Summit Street School playground as part of the Natural Playground plans.

The pavilion will provide play, teaching, and gathering space on the playground.”

Four Seasons’ dermatologist Dr. Anita Licata, who practices in Colchester, is a member of the Academy and sponsored the grant application.

Summit Street PTO will be holding a dedication for the pavilion this autumn after its installation.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016

S CHOOLS

Walking with the lights out Dancing tip-toed along eerie streets, the sky charcoal like the asphalt beneath our feet.

Step forward to the beat, the pulse of our hearts, our hearts to the beat of the ballad and our fingertips raised up to heaven.

Floating on the night, its shoulders carrying us away, away from time that ticks without a moment’s glance at its victim.

We are the victims, the misfits who accept the insufferable reality that the stopwatch will break, and our fingertips will descend down into the earth.

That our secrets will dissipate, our smiles erase, but we don’t ponder the inevitable.

Instead ... we wake the restless dreamers with loud thumping feet.

We laugh at lullabies, removing our ear buds so that the world can hear our anthems.

We walk with the lights out, our footsteps submerged in darkness.

We shout with voices that echo the silence, and we lose our minds, escape our bodily prisons for a moment.

– Leah keLLeher, essex high schooL

ADL Agenda

AdL sixth-grade foreign language students parade through the school during a recent celebration of Mardi Gras.

Dear families, While it’s an exciting and busy time at ADL, it is with sadness and concern that we’ve also been experiencing some recent episodes of bullying, harassment and a general intolerance for diversity. In an effort to be proactive, we will host a Community Forum at ADL on March 9 from 6-7:30 p.m. to assess our current state and problem-solve the ways in which we can work together as a community to address these issues positively and with longevity in mind. We envision having both student and adult groups with facilitators to complete this work. Pizza will be available to participants. Please consider joining us on March 9. For more information or questions, please call 857-7028.

— Laurie Singer, Principal

Oh, how life is good

This Week: General writing

Young Writers Project is an independent nonprofit that engages Vermont students to write, helps them improve and connects them with authentic audiences. Each month, in this newspaper, YWP presents a selection of the best local writing and photography. This week’s writing is in response to the prompt to write about anything in any genre. Read more at youngwritersproject.org and in YWP’s monthly digital magazine, The Voice.

FeaTure PhoTo

Jessica Beliveau, Essex High School

There was a man whose name was Jobe.

Every day he walked around the globe with his big, ol’ guitar playing and his big, booming voice saying, “Oh, how life is good for me.”

He had been everywhere around, walking about from town to town.

At the end of a gleeful day, when all the joy had died away, when the children were sleeping and the parents were weeping, on his way home, he thought, “Oh, how life is good for me.”

When he arrived back home, he found his wife all alone, all day thinking thoughts in her head.

She said, “God, where have you been?”

He said, “From the mountains to the great seas, so much roaming around, so much to see.

If you were only there on this journey with me, everything so happy and free.

Oh, how life is good for me.

But it would be better if you came too.”

She agreed to the prompt he had given and she started his way of living.

They both started singing all day and all night, “Oh, how life is good for us.”

– NeiL Wehr, essex MiddLe schooL

Fleming Flyer Fleming Dance-off: After a month of practicing, students finally hit the stage for Fleming’s annual Dance-Off Competition on Feb. 5. Students had the opportunity to perform their class dance for the school community. Our kids worked hard to learn their routines, using their teamwork and cooperation skills to make their dances as great as possible. Each class prepared a dance routine, and a panel of three “Fleming celebrity judges” rated each team on their performance. Fleming faculty and staff also performed a dance routine for the school.

Thank you to the community members who came out to support our students. Visit our website for the final results of the competition and to view some great dance videos. This fun and energizing activity has become a much-anticipated and celebrated school tradition at our school.

I love to read and Write Week: The week of Feb. 15-19 is “I Love to Read and Write Week” at Fleming School. In addition to engaging in regular classroom reading and writing, students will be participating in schoolwide literacy activities. Students will be challenged to “Drop Everything and Write” and “Drop Everything and Read” sessions. Each class will participate in a school-wide progressive writing project, where each classroom

Fleming students compete Feb. 5 in the annual dance-off Competition.

will contribute three minutes of writing to one storyline, and students will be invited to share their expertise on a research topic of their choice in the “chair of knowledge.” tropical Day at Fleming School: This Friday is Tropical Island Spirit Day. We are looking forward to celebrating the coming warm weather by turning our school into a tropical island. Students will be decorating the halls, wearing tropical outfits and listening to tropical music. House teams will be competing for the most spirited tropical house.

Fleming Falcon Accolade: We began a new school-wide incentive plan earlier this month, and our students are showing exemplary positive community behavior. Students who exhibit a commendable level of kindness, respect

EES Last Friday was Stripes and Polka dot day at EES. Kindergarten students Suyaeda hemingway, Ena Fong and Lillian thompson show their school spirit!

Photo | GrEtChEn FiELdS

ADl yearbook sales coming to a close: The final day to purchase the ADL Yearbook is March 1. With vacation coming next week, purchases should be made before students leave on break. When you return, it will be past the deadline. Order forms are available in the main office or online at the ADL website. Don’t be the only one in your class without this wonderful keepsake of your year at ADL. chorus concert date change: A few weeks ago we published a “Save the Date” for the upcoming ADL Chorus Concert. In the meantime, it was brought to our attention that the date conflicted with the religious services of Holy Week. In an effort to be considerate of our students and families, we will reschedule the concert to March 22 at 7 p.m. in the school gymnasium. Please note the date change.

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EES student Lorri huffstatler shares her pride in EES with Principal Peter Farrell by displaying the banner she had created, on her own, at home.

Photo | JEn WhitnEy

or responsibility may be awarded a Fleming Falcon Accolade Card from a teacher or staff member. Currentterm Student Council representatives will collect cards from their classmates weekly and bring them to the office to be added to the school’s overall count.

Once 243 cards have been awarded to students, Fleming School will have an incentive achievement celebration day.

The theme of our first celebration event is presently under consideration and will be announced prior to reaching our targeted goal of 243 cards. As of the publication of this column, our students are about halfway there.

Winter break: Enjoy winter break with your family next week. School will be back in session after Town Meeting Day on Wednesday, March 2.

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The Essex Reporter • February 18, 2016