March 16, 2017 Essex Reporter by Essex Reporter

Reporter THE ESSEX March 16, 2017

Vol. 37, No. 11

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •1

Prsrt Std ECRWSS U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 266 Burlington, VT 05401 Postal Patron-Residential

Market suspends season to address challenges By COLIN FLANDERS

he Five Corners Farmers’ Market has postponed its 2017 season to focus on drumming up new leadership amid challenges faced by the market and its vendors, manager Julie Miller-Johnson confirmed earlier this week. The announcement comes after several market board members resigned their posts, MillerJohnson said. “In the absence of any

new members joining the board of directors, they felt they couldn’t continue,” she said, adding if no new volunteers emerge, the market will fold. The market was typically held Friday nights from June to November. Many residents were shocked by the decision, taking to the market’s Facebook page to voice their displeasure. Some called it “ridiculous” while others said the postponement showed poor planning and won-

dered why the market couldn’t undergo revisions while operating as normal this year. Miller-Johnson, who took over as manager last year, responded by imploring those with concerns to share what they love about the weekly events and any ideas they may have. She’s only had a few responses so far, she said. “There’s a lot more involved in organizing a market than people realize there is,” Miller-JohnFile photo by OLIVER PARINI See MARKET, page 3

The Five Corners Farmers' Market plans to take off the 2017 season to re-envision the market's future.

Rec boosts village budget to $4.8 million By COLIN FLANDERS

FLOWER POWER A bove, Amelia Rossiter, 6, of Morrisville dressed up as Tinker Bell for the Vermont Flower Show at the Champlain Valley Expo earlier this month. This year's display centered on a Peter Pan theme. Bottom right, bright yellow daffodils provided a sharp contrast to the frigid outdoor tem-

peratures that lingered through the weekend. Bottom left, students in the building systems program at the Center for Technology, Essex constructed "Wendy's House," for the event. The structure was awarded to the winner of a raffle.

Photos by MICHAELA HALNON

The Essex Jct. Board of Trustees is sending a $4.8 million general fund budget to voters this April, incorporating the Essex Jct. Parks and Recreation department for the first time in over 40 years. Of this total, $3.3 million will be raised by taxes. The general fund budget is up by $860,000, the result of the village taking ownership of EJRP. This 22 percent increase over the current fiscal year may shock voters at first glance. That’s why all budget talks have stressed a singular point: Residents are already paying for it. “That recreation charge is coming off the school tax bill village residents get,” village president George Tyler said at a January trustees meeting. “I’m going to be like a broken record. I’m going to keep saying that.” The general fund proposal is estimated to increase municipal taxes by $200 for the owner of a $280,000 home, village numbers show. However, the same homeowner will only pay $8 more than last year for municipal and recreation services, according to assistant manager Lauren Morrisseau. See BUDGET, page 12

Trustees running unopposed

Library seeks new members By COLIN FLANDERS

est was piqued by a flier in her mailbox about an upcoming celebration. She walked outside when the day arrived and finally met her many neighbors, conversation flowing like the nearby Seine. “It was such a pivotal moment for me,” she said. Little did she know the gathering

Two trustees on Essex Jct.’s governing board will likely have an easy road to re-election this April. Village president George Tyler and trustee Dan Kerin were the only ones to hand in petitions before the March 6 deadline, according to joint clerk Susan McNamara-Hill. Both are unopposed for three-year seats. Tyler, who’s currently serving in his ninth year, said he hopes the lack of competition means the public thinks trustees are doing a good job, but noted he still plans to do some campaigning and stand out by the polls on election day. “I encourage people to still come by and vote and give me an earful of everything I’m doing wrong,” he said. Tyler said he helped initiate the consolidation process, and he feels a certain responsibility to see it through, if village voters are willing. Village and town staff have both extended themselves to these efforts, he said, adding he loves the people he’s working with. “I sincerely believe we make a great team and are moving the community in a positive direction. I want to keep it going,” he said. Kerin, aiming for his third term, thinks his work on the board has brought about good

See NEIGHBORS, page 2

See ELECTIONS, page 12

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood Essex Jct. resident planning inaugural celebration

By COLIN FLANDERS

tephanie Teleen is leading an undertaking that would make Mr. Rogers proud. The Essex Jct. resident hopes to mark the first Saturday in June as Neighbor’s Day, a celebration encouraging a sense of belonging in communities throughout the village. Last month, she ran the idea by the board of

trustees, who tasked community relations assistant Darby Mayville to help Teleen market the event. “There’s nobody closer to your central happiness than your neighbors because you see them all the time,” Teleen said. She’s experienced the flipside of the equation after moving to France six years ago. Feeling socially isolated by the language barrier, Teleen’s inter-

2• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

local NEIGHBORs from page 1

Photo by COLIN FLANDERS Essex Jct. resident Stephanie Teleen hopes to spread "Neighbor's Day" throughout the state. She's planned a celebration in the village, set for June 3.

would stick with her for years to come. She later learned she’d stumbled upon France’s annual neighborly celebration that began in 1999 after the mayor of a Paris arrondissement, or municipal district, learned one of his elderly residents died in her home without anyone noticing for months. The celebration quickly spread, hitting 30 countries on five continents over the next six years. As of 2015, an estimated 30 million people have participated in the events, Teleen said. After a year dominated by one of America’s most divisive elections, Teleen believes the same can happen in the U.S., with Vermont serving as the epicenter. “It’s a small state with a huge heart,” she said. “One where people want to know each other and want to be welcoming and engage people to make them feel like they landed in a good place.” Returning to Essex Jct. in 2013, Teleen sensed something had changed since she left nearly two years before. “Things started to gel,” she said. “People really started to want to have conversations about what we want out our village to be.”

She credits the Heart and Soul process for this growth and said the village has many cohesive neighborhoods already, pointing to her own neighborhood in the Summit-Fleming area as proof. For example, texts bounce between houses on snow days to check in on childcare, while the two lone snowplow owners migrate between houses to clear the way. And an upcoming bake-off will pit some of the neighborhood’s best bakers against one other. In the same vein, a good celebration can be anything from potlucks to wiffleball — whatever makes sense for the neighborhood, she said. “The goal is that it’s not going to put anybody out,” she said. Teleen said there are still many neighbors she doesn’t know, a fact she hopes the event can change. “It seems a little bit of a throwback to the way things used to be and the kind of closeness you would expect from your neighbors in the past,” she said. “We can all benefit from knowing more people or having more people to rely on in a crisis,” she added.

COMPLEX 159 PEARL ST. ESSEX JCT

RETAIL SPACE FOR LEASE • 1000 SF of Retail Space plus connecting 1058 SF on ground level with entrance (potential office, processing or storage space) • Flexible Floor Plan for more information • On Site Parking CONTACT MARIE • Convenient Location on Rt 15 CCTA Route just west of Fair Grounds 802 878 5651

Dreams are nice — but a steady income in retirement is even nicer.

Saving for retirement isn’t enough. You also need to make sure your savings will provide you with an income. The Financial Consultants at NEFCU Financial Group, available through CUSO Financial Services L.P. (CFS)*, are here to help you build the financial plan that’s right for you. Contact a CFS* Financial Consultant at the NEFCU Financial Group to arrange an appointment or visit nefcu.com. I N S U R E.

I N V E S T.

R E T I R E.

Available through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (Member FINRA/SIPC)

*Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (“CFS”), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS: are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of the credit union, and may involve investment risk including possible loss of principal. Investment Representatives are registered through CFS. New England Federal Credit Union has contracted with CFS to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members. CFS and its Registered Representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. For such advice, please consult with a qualified professional.

Jonathan Whitehouse 802.764.2626

Scott Hinman 802.879.8792

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •3

local MARKET from page 1

son said. Sugartree Maple Farm’s Amy Yandow, a Williston vendor who joined the market’s board of directors a couple years ago, testified to this claim. “I didn’t realize how much work goes into making a market successful,” she said. “I had to give up a lot of my hours to be on the board to keep the market going as long as it’s gone.” That includes following the various laws on farmers’ markets, adhering to state programs for coupons and setting up and tearing down the market every week. Market leaders usually begins work in January to prepare for the June opening. Without a full board in place, Yandow said the remaining members decided to take the year off and focus on the market’s future. The board tasked Miller-Johnson with building this new support. A meeting in early May will serve as a benchmark. There, she hopes to find handful of people willing help create a plan for 2018. The meeting will also address issues currently plaguing the market, questions like if a new, bigger location is required for a more sit-and-stay environment, or if the village’s growing restaurant scene means Friday nights are

I didn't realize how much work goes into making a market successful - Amy Yandow

no longer the best option. Yet one of the biggest threats, and perhaps most difficult to address, is vendors’ fiscal health, since many struggled to turn foot traffic into sales over the last few years, MillerJohnson said. Yandow thinks this may be due to markets’ reputation of being too expensive for young people, a perception she admits she’s not sure how to correct. “I don’t make a lot of money myself,” Yandow said. “But have learned if you buy local and spend your money local, that money stays local. “I don’t know if people realize how important that is,” she added.

Some onus falls on organizers, who need to mix up vendors to create a sense of novelty the market is currently lacking, Miller-Johnson said. It’s also on the community, however, “not just to visit, but also to buy,” she said. Miller-Johnson hopes the May meeting can identify how local consumers wish to spend their time and money. A redesigned market will ideally be less dependent on volunteers, too, requiring vendors to pick up some of the work. That means revised contracts and applications, MillerJohnson said, all of which requires a board of directors. “We need people who are willing to take the time through a series of meetings to do the work,” she said. Thus, the next few months will prove vital for the market’s future. Miller-Johnson admits she has a personal vision but said the final direction must be what the community wants. “The way I see it is we have an opportunity now,” she said. Yandow shares her optimism. “I do think something could happen. Fresh board members and fresh community members could really be helpful,” she said.

File photo by OLIVER PARINI Five Corners Farmers' Market organizers hope to find volunteers to join the market's board of directors. Failure to do so could mean the market has seen its last days in Essex Jct.

Can You Bring In Our Most Wanted?

ES APPLIANC

USED CARS

KITCHEN CABINET S

DRESSER

& TRUCKS

G r e e n M o u nt a i n

Memory care and more… A new senior living community specializing in caring for people with Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory impairment.

W W

e eofferoffer affordable, 24-hour support for affordable, 24-hour support foreverything those who need those who need from minimal everything fromwho minimal assistance assistance to those need a high level of to those who need a high level of care. care. private shared suites • • Large, Large, sunny sunny private oror shared suites • Tranquil garden court yards and • patios Tranquil garden court yards and patios • • Person Person centered centered care care • Staff experienced with memory • Staff experienced with memory carecare • Short term respite stays • Short term respite stays • Aging in place, including end of • life Aging in place, including end of life care care

528 Essex Rd. (Rt. 2A) • Williston • 857-5296 • vermonthabitat.org Open to the Public Mon. - Fri. 10 - 6 & Sat. 10 - 5 Revenue from donations and purchases support local, affordable home building.

FREE PICK UP • TAX DEDUCTIBLE

Williston Dental Team Great with kids!

Call Us Today!

A healthy smile is so important!

Opening Now September Open

Dr. Gabriel Mannarino • Dr. Holly Halliday - Periodontist

FP-0000400445

Call Carrie Shamel to schedule a visit. 802-872-1700

6 Freeman Woods, Essex Jct., VT www.springvillageessex.com

Let Us Take the Journey With You!

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Whitening • Oral Surgery

• Periodontal Treatment • Emergency Care • Evening appointments available

ASK ABOUT OUR REFER-A-FRIEND PROGRAM AND OUR $25 GIFT CARDS! 160 James Brown Drive, Williston, VT • 878-0600 • www.willistondental.com (Off Route 2A, near Eco Wash)

4• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

local TRY-TOWN

Mood swings Editor’s note: This is the fourth installment of our “Try Town” series, in which Milton Independent, Essex Reporter and Colchester Sun reporters try activities available in our communities. Submit your suggestions to news@ essexreporter.com. By MICHAELA HALNON

ith snow swirling outside, I tromped into the Milton Public Library for my first swing dancing lesson with Michael Boucher and Heather Sheehan in bulky winter boots. My mistake became apparent the minute I saw the instructing couple move to the jazzy music, eyes locked and feet twisting across the blue carpet in flexible, soft soled shoes. Boucher and Sheehan, both Milton residents, were unfazed by my footwear, though. Moments later, in stocking feet, I began stepping to the six-count beat. The moves were slower and simpler than the fastpaced stunts I’d imagined at the onset. “It’s not nearly as fre-

netic as it looks,” Boucher explained. “You don’t have to force this dance.” The bare-basics lesson mirrored the one Boucher himself first took nearly 10 years ago. Newly single and looking for a hobby, his interest was piqued when a coworker mentioned a swing dancing class he’d taken in Burlington. He had no dance experience other than the “wedding reception shuffle” and remembered feeling completely embarrassed after seeing the skill of the other performers in the room. “We were all beginners at one point,” Boucher remembers the dancers saying. He quickly found himself at the dancing club multiple times per week, thrilled to be a part of the vibrant community. “I love music, but I don’t play an instrument,” Boucher said. “When I’m dancing, I feel like I’m part of the music. That, to me, is the coolest thing about this.” Boucher said swing rapidly became an integral part of his life – the movements, culture and history

of the 1920s “street dance” fascinated him to no end. He even began donning a signature fedora whenever he stepped onto the dance floor. When the owners of Vermont Swings went their separate ways, the club’s future seemed uncertain. Boucher and several other dedicated members decided to form a governing board to keep doors open. He serves on the board to this day. After a few years of dancing, Boucher, a network administrator for a health insurance company, met Sheehan, an occupational therapy assistant. He made sure to mention his ever-growing hobby on one of their first dates. Luckily, Sheehan was thrilled to hear about his unique passion. They’ve been dancing together ever since. “I was so excited because I’d always been interested in partner dance,” Sheehan said. “It’s not something you see much of these days.” Years ago, she wanted to take lessons with husband, Kevin Sheehan, who was killed in a mortar at-

Pet of the Week HARRY POTTER

11 year old Neutered Male Reason here: I was nt a good fit for my previous home

SUMMARY: Harry Potter (aka H.P.) came to HSCC as a very shy boy who wasn’t quite sure where he was and why he was here. Sadly, his original owner passed away and he was thankfully taken in by some neighbors. After spending ~6 months with them, he was relinquished to HSCC because his personality didn’t quite mesh with the personality of the other cats in the home. H.P. has gone through a lot of transition and so we certainly understood when it took this sweet boy a few days to come out of his shell. Upon his arrival we ran tests and found that he was diabetic, unknown to his previous owners. We quickly started him on a prescription diabetic diet and twice daily insulin injections. We had to do some investigating, as Harry has some very specific ideas about what cat food should taste like, so it took some time to find a diet that fit his diabetic needs and his taste preferences! However, he quickly adjusted to twice daily insulin injections and has been doing great here at HSCC ever since. Because H.P. was feeling shy when he first came in, he spent a lot of time hiding. After a few days, however, HSCC staff quickly discovered his sweet and gentle personality! As soon as you sit with him and give him a couple of head pets, he quickly comes out purring and head butting, and might even climb in your lap and nuzzle your face. He’s had no problem sharing space with our other diabetic darling, Mouse, and they have gotten along great so far. Harry Potter is now ready to find a home to give him all of the love and care his gentle self deserves!

My thoughts on: Dogs: I lived with a dog and I was afraid of them. Cats: I Ask HSCC about me and cats; I have been sharing space with my friend Harry Potter and we seem to get along just fine.

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135

authentic mexican cuisine

Taco

Tuesdays Beef or Chicken $2

Photo by MICHAELA HALNON Heather Sheehan and Michael Boucher of Milton demonstrate swing dancing.

tack in Iraq in 2004. She found it tough to make time for lessons with the commitments of caring for their then-younger children. Plus, Sheehan said with a laugh, she was known for having some trouble letting others lead during past trips across the dance floor. “That has been kind of a fun part of the journey for me,” Sheehan said. “It wasn’t until I started taking classes that I understood this is what leading means and this is what following means.” When they had a halfdozen years of dancing under their belt, Boucher asked Sheehan to teach a class in Milton with him. Despite her nerves, she agreed. There was significant interest in the community, Boucher said, but figuring out how to articulate an art form that functions best with a focus on feel over form was a challenge for both at first. Boucher said many attendees, particularly the men, are selfconscious when they start to dance. One effective teaching trick they learned quick-

ly? “It’s always easier to dance to music,” Boucher said. That proved true in my lesson, too, as I focused on the song blaring from a set of small, portable speakers. Boucher and Sheehan offered me frequent encouragement, even as I stumbled through the triple step combination after catching a glimpse of myself in the reflection of the library’s windows. “It feels much more awkward than it looks,” Boucher said, assuring me that falling a beat behind is no problem so long as you keep moving. The introductory class offered a preview of a series of six courses the pair offers to beginners through the Milton Recreation Department and at the Vermont Swings Champlain Club in Burlington. Participants could join the last Milton Rec offering for $75. Becoming instructors also meant the duo had to learn the opposite part, which has helped them become better partners on the dance floor and off. “It helps with your communication skills. Maybe we should dance

more,” Boucher joked. “It’s great for a relationship to get that dynamic.” Most of their students are married couples, but singles show up, too. No one needs a partner to attend, Boucher said. In fact, the duo often encourages couples that came together to dance with other students. Some folks are resistant to the idea, Sheehan acknowledged, but dancing with a variety of partners keeps students from accommodating for each others’ mistakes. When a dance goes well for performers at any level, Boucher said it’s like having a great conversation for the duration of the song. “If it’s not such a great connection or a great dance? It’s only two and a half minutes,” Sheehan joked. Sheehan and Boucher offer classes through Vermont Swings at the Champlain Club in Burlington. For more information, visit vermontswings.com/ classes.php. For upcoming offerings in Milton, check out the recreation guide at www.miltonvt.org/departments/recreate.html

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH & DINNER 4 Park Street • Essex • 802.662.4334 169 Church St. • Burlington 802.540.3095 • www.ElGatoCantina.com

Thinking of buying a home? Attend our free

HOME BUYING SEMINAR Tuesday, March 21, 2017 Arts Riot - Burlington 400 Pine Street 6:00pm - 8:00pm Heavy appetizers and refreshments provided. Please RSVP to: marketing@vermontfederal.org • We’ll walk you through the complete process and answer any questions you may have. • Local realtors will be on site. • Get rewarded for attending, with money towards your future closing.

vermontfederal.org | 888.252.0202 This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

NMLS Institutional ID #466013

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •5

opinion & COMMUNITY PersPective

The public’s right to know is under attack

his is the first Sunshine Week, since it began in 2005, when the public’s right to know has been under direct assault and on several fronts. “Fake news,” “alternative facts,” retaliatory restrictions of press access by the White House and demonizing attacks on the working press are eroding the public’s access to real facts and real information about what their government is doing. Next week the Senate Judiciary Committee will convene for crucial hearings to consider the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. These hearings are a unique moment when all three branches of government converge as senators consider a presidentially appointed nominee to serve on the highest court in the land. It is fitting these hearings will occur just after Sunshine Week, a time when we rededicate ourselves to transparency in government. It was Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, a staunch believer in open government, who famously said sunlight is the best disinfectant. It’s often the press that shines light in dark corners. Since the beginning of our republic, Americans have recognized the freedom of the press as central to our democracy. But today, that basic understanding is being tested by a president who apparently needs a refresher. Our Constitution provides for freedom of the press because a democracy cannot survive without it. But a free press is not just a constitutional requirement; it is essential for the public’s participation and faith in democracy. The press informs the public and holds elected officials accountable. It serves as a critical check on our government, shining a light on corruption, exploitation, injustice and excess. Under President Trump, the very existence of facts and truth seem to be under attack. The president has waged a war against reality. President Trump labels unfavorable reports as “fake news,” simultaneously decrying the leaks from his administration that gave rise to the reports in the first place. And in an attempt at censorship, his administration has retaliated against respected media institutions by limiting their access to cover the White House. Instead of censoring the media, we have a responsibility to ensure it can operate freely. Last year we took a significant step forward when Congress finally enacted my FOIA Improvement Act to strengthen and modernize the Freedom of Informa-

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) tion Act — our nation’s premier transparency law and a tool the press relies on to root out the truth behind government spin. This new law, which took years of hard work to pass, made permanent President Obama’s directive that government agencies operate with a “presumption of openness” when considering the release of government information under FOIA. I fought for this strengthening legislation because I believe we have to hold all presidents and their administrations accountable to the highest standards. In retrospect, given the Trump administration’s hostility to the press, this legislation could not have been better timed. By codifying the presumption of openness, we declare that sunshine, not secrecy, is the default setting of our government. Despite the alarming attacks on the free press, I believe we can and we must continue to bring more transparency to government. We did so last year with the FOIA Improvement Act, and we can continue by promoting transparency and accountability through technology. My parents ran an independent printing press in Vermont. From an early age, I understood the power of technology to inform the public. Today, all that separates our citizens from vital information and news is often the click of a button. Next week, Vermonters and all Americans will be able to tune in to the Senate Judiciary Committee’s public consideration of a Supreme Court nominee. While this same process should have been afforded to President Obama’s highly qualified nominee, Republicans broke a century of Senate tradition and refused him the opportunity of a public hearing. Now we are faced with a new nominee for the highest court in the land, nominated by a president who has already shown hostility to independent judges who dare to uphold the Constitution and to journalists so bold as to write the truth. Next week’s hearings mark a time where transparency and a free press can illuminate for the American people exactly what is at stake. During this Sunshine Week, let us all remember to keep the spotlight shining.

Letters to tHe eDitor Half of voters sought change I want to thank all the voters who participated in the recent election for the Town of Essex Selectboard. I especially want to thank all those who came out on a cold, windy, rainy March day to vote for a relatively unknown candidate. Although we didn’t get the result we wanted, of the 1,578 total ballots cast, 790 had the oval next to my name filled in. That means 50 percent of the ballots cast were looking for change. I appreciate the support. I ran for office because I believe the town needs stronger budget management and disciplined spending and that my background of 40plus years in private industry coupled with my experience in municipal government in the areas

of finance and human resources provides a unique set of strengths. As we move toward implementing more consolidations, we need to keep an eye on the tax implications to all residents and establish measurable outcomes. We also need to strive toward more open, transparent, and civil communication and engagement within the community. The challenges that propelled me to run for office remain and our involvement in town government shouldn’t end with the election. I intend to continue the conversation by being at future meetings to be a watchdog for proper process and fiscal responsibility. I hope others will join me.

Watts appreciates support I would like to thank my family, friends, neighbors and the voters of Essex for their support of my bid for re-election to the selectboard. I would particularly like to thank Janet, Adam, George, Rob, Jacob, Andy and Betzi for standing out in the cold and rain for me at the middle school. I also appreciate those who took the time to talk to me over the past several weeks. I will do my best to continue to take your concerns into account as a selectman, and I look forward to future conversations. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any comments, questions, concerns or compliments regarding the functioning of the town. Andy Watts Essex Selectboard Levy thanks voters I would like to thank the voters of the Essex community for re-electing me to the selectboard for a fourth term. It is truly an honor and privilege to serve the people of Essex. I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow selectboard members and village trustees to keep our entire community moving forward towards a positive vision and more sustainable future.

Mona Sheppard Essex

Max Levy Essex Selectboard

GrowinG kiDs, essex jct.

obituary

Bedtimes, rituals and routines By ELLEN DROLETTE

or this article, I wanted to know the good and notso-good bedtime routines parents use and what the ramifications have been when certain techniques haven’t worked, or how parents handle the situation if their child is not a great sleeper. I asked in a variety of social media forums about people’s routines. I got some incredible, sweet and funny feedback. There was one constant for many, which was reading stories before bed. This led to the child reading to the parent and eventually to themselves in their later years. This one simple step is essential to building literacy skills while also creating a routine that can start from birth. Children need consistency to feel secure and safe. This creates an opportunity for healthy social and emotional growth to happen naturally. Many people responded by saying a bath before bedtime helps, while others said a bath winds their children up, so they avoid it. My best friend, Beth, shared this: “My favorite ritual with the girls was ‘happy thoughts and wishes.’ We would talk about all the things that had happened that day/ week that brought them joy and what we had to look forward to. We did this every night, falling asleep.” Another friend of mine, Thea, recalled, “I sang very non-traditional lullabies, things like 'Sweet Baby James' and 'Brand New Key.' One of my favorite memories is Shannon calling me from a James Taylor concert and saying, ‘This is for you, Mom!’” My friend Kate shares a humorous look at what the first child sleep routine felt like and what it has morphed into with three children.

“The routines have evolved as the kids have grown up, obviously,” she said. “When Jax was an infant, it was such a process that actually getting him to sleep and then tucked away in his crib amounted to the same stressful pressure as what I can only assume people that diffuse bombs for a living experience. If the house creaked, the blanket pulled or God forbid your necklace hit the crib as you stood back up after a successful crib drop ... it was detonation and start back at step one. Once he and subsequently Seamus became actual people instead of crying potatoes, the routine settled into each getting a song of their choosing or a story they can agree on from Joe, and then he tags out and I go in and we talk about something that would be fun to dream about while I set up their tents so that ‘he doesn't stare at me in my sleep’ complaints are averted. Sometimes in the morning this leads to stories of actually dreaming the aforementioned dreams or, at worst, how the dreams didn't happen, but if they did, it would have been like this!” Another mom sent me a private message as her daughter is a teenager and would disown her if she knew she was sharing. They still have this routine today: “I sing her a song, rub her back, snuggle with her, etc. Every night before bed. ‘Her song’ started when she was an infant and would not sleep. Over the course of a couple of weeks with many sleepless nights, ‘her song’ was created. I was delirious and singing ‘Mockingbird’ over and over and over and over. I started making up verses, and a few of them stuck. And eventually ‘her song’ came into being. It is half ‘Mockingbird’ and half madeup stanzas that I've been

singing for 15 years. She knows all the words and will sing along with me or tell me if I skip a line when I'm really tired. And, yes, sometimes I get strange looks from people when I tell them I put my 15-year-old to bed. And she won't let me mention it around her friends. But it is a very special time of day. After I sing, when she is really relaxed and drifting off to sleep, she will start talking to me. Really talking. Some of our best communication happens during that time. I absolutely treasure that time with her, and I will keep doing it until she goes to college … in fact, the other night, she told me: 'Mom, you realize that when I move out, if I have a bad day, I'm going to call you to sing me to sleep.' Insert heart explosion here.” This is why we have rituals, so we can raise children to feel safe, secure and able to communicate with the adults they trust when they are in a time of need and to create strong attachments and develop socially and emotionally to deal with what the world deals out.

Bernice M. Conner ESSEX – Bernice M. Conner, 81, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the comfort of her home on Thursday March 9, 2017. Bernice was surrounded by family who supported her through the final leg of her life’s journey as she succumbed to heart disease. Please join us in honoring Bernice’s life journey on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at AW Rich Funeral Home Essex Chapel, 57 Main St., Essex Jct. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the hour of celebration of life beginning at 3 p.m. Inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family. The family also invites you to view further information and share your memories by visiting www.awrfh.com.

Reporter THE ESSEX

ExEcutivE Editor

co-publishErs

Courtney A. Lamdin

Emerson & Suzanne Lynn

AssociAtE Editor

gEnErAl mAnAgEr

sports Editor

AdvErtising mAnAgEr

Abby Ledoux

Colin Flanders

Suzanne Lynn Wendy Ewing

rEportErs

Colin Flanders | Michaela Halnon Kaylee Sullivan | Tom Marble 42 Severance Green Unit #108, Colchester, VT 05446 Phone: 878-5282 Fax: 651-9635

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

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

6• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

EssEx ArEA

Religious Directory

calendar ter. College Pathways covers the entire college process, including creating a college list that fits student needs and family finances, application specifics, test taking strategies and more. To register and for more information, visit www.vsac.org/CollegePathways. Walk-ins welcome, too!

Mar. 22

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH - 61 Main St., Essex Jct., 878-8341. James Gangwer, pastor. Sunday School: 10 a.m., Worship Service: 11 a.m., Sunday evening worship: 7 p.m., Wednesday evening youth groups, Adult Bible study and prayer: 7 p.m.; FundamentalIndependent.

Weekend STorYTiMe

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

CITYREACH CHURCH - 159 Pearl St., Essex Jct. Behind Subway, on the back side of the building. Pastor Brent Collins. Sunday worship service: 5 p.m. A casual, family-focused and friendly Christian Church with practical teaching, great music, a safe kids program (Nursery-5th grade) and an exciting and empowering church experience, www.essexjunction.cityreachnetwork. org; bcollins@cityreachnetwork.org; facebook: CityReach Church - Essex Junction.

finding frenchcanadian anceSTorS

10:30 a.m. - noon, 377 Hegeman Ave., Colchester. Knowing how to use databases like PRDH and LAFRANCE along with some tips will fill many of the gaps on your family tree. Following the class, Jane Whitmore will help attendees with searches in using our library's subscriptions to these databases. $5. For more information, visit www.vtgenlib.org or call 310-9285.

CHRIST MEMORIAL CHURCH - Route 2A, Williston, just north of Industrial Ave. 878-7107. Wes Pastor, senior minister, proclaiming Christ and Him crucified, Sundays: 9:30 a.m., www.cmcvermont.org. DAYBREAk COMMUnITY CHURCH - 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester. 338-9118. Brent Devenney, lead pastor. Sunday service: 10:30 a.m., AWANA: Thursdays twice a month, www.daybreakvermont.org; brentdaybreak@gmail.com ESSEX ALLIAnCE CHURCH - 37 Old Stage Road, Essex Jct. 878-8213. Sunday services: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. & 11:30 a.m., www.essexalliance.org. ESSEX CEnTER UnITED METHODIST CHURCH - 119 Center Rd (Route 15), Essex. 878-8304. Rev. Mitchell Hay, pastor. Service 10:00 a.m. with Sunday School and childcare provided. We offer a variety of small groups for prayer, Bible study, hands-on ministry, and studying contemporary faith issues. Please join us for worship that combines the best of traditional and contemporary music and spirituality. We are a safe and welcoming space for all people to celebrate, worship, ask questions and plant spiritual roots. FIRST COngREgATIOnAL CHURCH OF ESSEX JUnCTIOn - 1 Church Street, Essex Jct. 878-5745. Rev. Mark Mendes, senior pastor. Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:15 a.m. Communion: first Sunday of every month. Sunday School: 5th/6th Grade - 1st Sunday of the month, Jr. & Sr. high youth groups - every Sunday. Heavenly Food Pantry: second Monday of the month, 5:30-7:30 p.m., fourth Thursday of the month, 2-6 p.m. except for Nov. & Dec. when it is the third Thursday. Essex Eats Out community dinner: 1st Friday of the month, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Music includes Sanctuary Choir, Praise Band, Junior Choir, Cherub Choir, Handbell Choir, Men’s Acapella & Ladies’ Acapella groups. UCC, an Open and Affirming Congregation, embracing diversity and affirming the dignity and worth of every person, because we are all created by a loving God. www.fccej. org; welcome@fccej.org gRACE UnITED METHODIST CHURCH - 130 Maple Street, Essex Jct., 1 mile south of the Five Corners on Maple Street / Route 117. 878-8071. Worship Sundays: 9:30 a.m., with concurrent church school pre-K to grade 6. Handicapped-accessible facility. Adult choir, praise band, women’s fellowship, missionally active. Korean U.M.C. worship Sundays: 12 p.m., come explore what God might be offering you! HOLY FAMILY - ST. LAwREnCE PARISH - St. Lawrence: 158 West St., Essex Jct. 878.5331. Saturday Vigil: 4:00 p.m.; Sunday Morning: 8:00 a.m. Holy Family: 36 Lincoln St., Essex Jct., Sundays: 11 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.hfslvt.org. MT. MAnSFIELD UnITARIAn UnIVERSALIST FELLOwSHIP - 195 Vermont Route 15, Jericho, the red barn across from Packard Road. 899-2558. Services are held 9:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from September through June. Visit www.mmuuf. org. ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH - 4 St. James Place, Essex Jct., off Rt. 2A at the Fairgrounds Gate F. 8784014. Rev. Kim Hardy. Holy Eucharist: 8:15 & 10:30 a.m. Adult study: 9:15 a.m. Visit www.stjamesvt.org; stjamesvtoffice@yahoo.com. ST. PIUS X CHURCH - 20 Jericho Road, Essex. 878-5997. Rev. Charles Ranges, pastor. Masses: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. & Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Confessions: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. or please call 878-5331 for an appointment.

Whole Book approach photo courtesy of essex free library

Sign your young reader up for a 15-minute slot with Essex Free Library reading dog McKenzie from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 22. Reading to a dog is a wonderful way to work on reading skills in a comfortable atmosphere. To schedule a time, call 879-0313 or email ccorless@essex.org.

16 ThurSdaY Wii BoWling

2:30 - 4 p.m., Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. For ages 50+. Call 876-5087 for more information.

read To archie

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

SuperB cupcakeS 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Essex Free Library. Hannah, co-owner of Superb Cupcakes, will educate us about her company’s delicious creations.

MT. ManSfield Scale ModelerS

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. An informal gathering of scale model enthusiasts. Model builders of all skill levels are welcome. An opportunity to show off individual projects, discuss modeling tips and techniques and gain inspiration from fellow modelers. For more information, call 8790765 after 6 p.m.

17 fridaY perfecT Blend café

9 - 11 a.m., Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. Open to the public. Call 876-5087 for more information.

MuSical STorYTiMe

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.,

Essex Free Library. Rock and read together on Friday mornings with books, songs and instruments. For all ages.

vinTage Movie MaTinee

fundraising to purchase uniforms for the 2017 AAU season. $10 for adults, $9 for 65+, $5 for children 12 and under and free for children 2 and under. For more information, call 777-6316.

Noon, Bayside Activity Center, 2 West Lakeshore Dr., Colchester. Bring your lunch at noon to meet others, or just come for the movie at 1 p.m. Beverages and popcorn provided. This week's movie is “Road to Bali,” a 1949 comedy staring Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.

5:30 - 8 p.m., 60 Founders Rd., Essex Jct. Prizes, DJ and a snack bar. Free admission; tickets can be purchased for games and events. All ages.

educaTion and enrichMenT for everYone

faMilY Movie: "The greaT gillY hopkinS"

2 - 3 p.m., Faith United Methodist Church, 899 Dorset St., South Burlington. Bogac Ergene, a history professor at the University of Vermont, presents “The Rise and Fall of the Ottoman Empire and the Consequences of its Decline.”

live acTion role plaY

3:30 - 5 p.m., Brownell Library. LARP with Sydney is open to all middle and high school students who want to have adventures in a mythical land.

ST. paTrick’S daY dinner

4:30 - 7:30 p.m., Isle of Patmos Masonic Lodge, 40 South St., South Hero. A traditional corned beef and vegetable meal. All proceeds to benefit the Vermont Warriors girls basketball team. Take out will be available. The team – consisting of girls from Grand Isle, South Hero, Winooski, Colchester, Essex and Burlington – is

eSSex Middle School carnival nighT

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. 12-year-old wisecracking Gilly Hopkins finds herself shuffled from foster home to foster home until she meets Maime Trotter. Rated PG. Free popcorn and drink.

STand up for The lake coMedY ShoW 7 - 10 p.m., Colchester Mead Hall, 856 Hercules Dr., Colchester. A night of comedy to benefit Lake Champlain International. Hosted by Owen Foley and featuring Annie Russell, Eric Dreiblatt, Paul Church, Ryan Chani and Kathleen Kanz. Half of all food and drink sales benefit LCI. $10. Rated PG-13.

18 SaTurdaY vSac college paThWaYS

9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., St. Michael’s College, 1 Winooski Park, Colches-

11 a.m., Phoenix Books, 21 Essex Way, Essex Jct. Calling all kids! Join us for our weekly "whole book approach" story time. The approach explores the ways words, pictures and book design work together to tell a complete story. The adult leads the children through the book rather than reading the book at/to them. We’ll hold story time just about every week. Want to double check on a particular date? Call us at 872-7111.

green BurialS

3 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. This educational program is hosted by end of life specialist and green burial educator Michelle Acciavatti and wildlife biologist and green burial advocate Carl Anderson. It will include a screening of the short documentary “Dying Green,” a brief presentation about burial depth and plenty of time for questions and discussion. For more information, visit vermontgreenburial. wordpress.com.

19 SundaY free pancake BreakfaST

8:30 & 10:45 a.m., Grace United Methodist Church, 130 Maple St., Essex Jct. Come enjoy pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, juice, coffee and fellowship with friends. Call 6582602 for more information.

archaeological hiSTorY of chiTTenden counTY

2 p.m., 1 Ethan Allen Homestead, Burlington. State archaeologist Jess Robinson will present an overview of Chittenden County’s Native American history, from the arrival of its first inhabitants approxi-

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •7

calendar local meetingS thurS., march 16 6 - 7:30 p.m., village planning commission, Lincoln Hall, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

fri., march 17

8:15 - 9:30 a.m., ewSd communications task team, Central office, 51 Park St., Essex Jct.

mon., march 20 5:45 - 7 p.m., village bike/walk advisory committee, Lincoln Hall, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

tueS., march 21

5:30 p.m., village tree advisory committee, Lincoln Hall, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. 6 - 7:30 p.m., brownell library trustees, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

thurS., march 23 6:30 p.m., town planning commission, Town offices, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.

7:30 p.m., town selectboard, Town offices, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.

mately 13,000 years ago to their contact with Europeans. A question and answer session will follow.

20 monday SpaniSh muSical KidS

10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Brownell Library. Join Constancia Gomez, an experienced Spanish teacher for this interactive Spanish musical class for kids. Activities to keep little ones and parents moving.

Storytime

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Enjoy books, songs and crafts each week! All ages.

tech help with clif

Noon & 1 p.m., Brownell Library. Offering one on one technology help. Bring in your new gadget or gizmo and Clif will sit with you to help you learn its ways. Reservation required. Please call 878-6955 at least 24 hours in advance.

lego club

3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Essex Free Library. Build awesome creations using our collection of Legos!

Star warS club

4:30 - 5:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Our library trustee Max Holzman leads the Star Wars Club. For all ages. Popcorn and drink provided.

converSation with repS. giambatiSta & houghton

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

21 tueSday Storytime for babieS & toddlerS

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

adult.

Storytime for preSchoolerS

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

vermont genealogy library

3 - 9:30 p.m., 377 Hegeman Ave., Fort Ethan Allen, Colchester. The Vt. Genealogy Library has the resources to help you find those elusive ancestors. For more information, visit www. vtgenlib.org.

read to daiSy

3:15 - 4 p.m., Brownell Library. Daisy loves to listen to kids read and is certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. Daisy’s owner is Maddie Nash, a retired school counselor. For all ages.

Knitting group

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

22 wedneSday tech time with traci

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

Soup and Sandwich luncheon

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Maple Street Park, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. $2 for members, $3 for non-members. For more information, call 8765087.

tech help with clif

eSSex rotary club meeting

12:10 p.m., The Essex, 70 Essex Way, Essex Jct. The Rotary Club of

Essex offers a superb lunch, featuring speakers on topics of interest to the community at large. Visitors welcome.

lego fun

3 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Participate in fun and friendly building with Legos. For kids entering kindergarten and up. Children under 5 are welcome to participate with parental supervision.

read to mcKenzie the dog

3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Essex Free Library. Sign your young reader up for a 15-minute slot with our reading dog McKenzie. Reading to a dog is a wonderful way to work on reading skills in a comfortable atmosphere. To schedule a time, call 879-0313 or email ccorless@essex. org.

navigating divorce

7 - 8 p.m., Brownell Library. Do you know someone going through a divorce? The process is an emotional and financial roller coaster. This workshop will help you build selfconfidence and financial control during and after divorce.

23 thurSday wii bowling

2:30 - 4 p.m., Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. For ages 50+. Call 876-5087 for more information.

read to archie

24 friday perfect blend café

9 - 11 a.m., Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. Open to the public. Call 876-5087 for more information.

SongS and StorieS with matthew

10 - 10:45 a.m., Brownell Library. Matthew Witten performs songs about our world and tells adventurous tales. Funded by the Brownell Library Foundation. For all ages.

muSical Storytime

10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Rock and read together on Friday mornings with books, songs and instruments. For all ages.

baySide wii bowling

Noon, Bayside Activity Center, 2 West Lakeshore Dr., Colchester. Join us for a game of Wii bowling.

education and enrichment for everyone

2 - 3 p.m., Faith United Methodist Church,

899 Dorset St., South Burlington. James Stewart, Vermont Public Radio’s classical host, presents “Art Influencing Art: Impressionism and Expressionism; Monet and Munch; Debussy, Ravel and Schoenberg.”

Single adult activity

6 p.m., Essex Alliance Church Community Center, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. Volleyball, chili cook-off, game night. Suggested donation of $4 per person. For more information, call 899-4160.

dungeonS and dragonS

Sunday, October 23rdopening , openingatat8:30am 8:30am Sunday, March 19th, Admission: Just $3.00

Save $1.00 with your WOKO Country Club Card Children 13 and under are Free 105 Pearl Street, Essex Junction, Vermont 05452

www.cvexpo.org

Kindergarten Registration for Essex Junction Schools Preregistration for kindergarten is now available online here: www.ccsuvt.org/registration Please preregister by April 1, as screening will take place in late May or early June. Students eligible for kindergarten must be 5 years old before September 1, 2017. You will be required to provide a completed registration packet, a copy of your child’s birth certificate, immunization records, recent physical, as well as residency verification. If you have any questions, please call the following number and leave your name and contact information: 802-857-7999

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Embark upon imaginary adventures. Our Dungeon Master, Aiem, serves as the game’s referee and storyteller. For grades 6 and up.

25 Saturday weeKend Storytime

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

whole booK approach

26 Sunday matSuri JapaneSe cultural feStival

11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Ross Sports Center, St. Michael’s College, 1 Winooski Park, Colchester. Featuring arts and crafts, music, food, demonstrations, performances, games and prizes. $10 admission, $5 for students and seniors, $20 for families and free for children under 5 and members of the Japan America Society of Vermont. For more information, visit www.jasv.org.

cribbage, anyone?

1 - 3:30 p.m., Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. A play day for all. $1. For more information, call 876-5087.

ongoing eaSc activitieS

Essex Area Senior Center, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. For ages 50 and up. A full list of activities at the EASC can be found at essexvtseniors.org. For more information, call director Lou Ann Pioli at 876-5087.

We’ll help you find your new home today! • • • •

Independent Senior Housing in Williston 24 Hour Maintenance Now leasing and accepting applications Must be at least 55 year of age

• 1 & 2 Bedroom units available • All utilities are included in rent except telephone & Falcon Manor cable • Community Room Eagle Crest • Hair Salon • Exercise Room • Washrooms on every Floor • Underground/off street parking • Secure Building • Pets Allowed

Call for current leasing specials!! 802-879-6507

8â&#x20AC;¢ The Essex Reporter â&#x20AC;¢ March 16, 2017

jobseekers & classifieds SERVICES: PAINTING

FOR SALE

Call 8785282 to place your ad

FOR SALE

Sunday, March 19th, rd Sunday, October 23opening Openingatat8:30am 8:30am

Admission: Just $3.00 Save $1.00 with your WOKO Country Club Card Children under 13 are free!

www.cvexpo.org

JAY PEAK IS HIRING!

Town of Essex Seasonal Public Works Laborer

Carriers

WANTED Deliver the Essex Reporter, earn some extra cash!

for the following positions: â&#x20AC;¢ Housekeeping â&#x20AC;¢ Lift Operations â&#x20AC;¢ Food and Beverage and more...

Visit JayPeakResort.com/Jobs for more information.

Bundle Run

Driver

Deliver the Essex Reporter, earn some extra cash!

Available routes: Route #3 - South St., Orchard Terrace, Doon Way, South St. Ln. Route #18 - Cherry, Curtis, Cherokee, Cree Route #32 - South Summit, Iroquois, Abenaki, Seneca

t 1JDLVQ CVOEMFT JO 4U "MCBOT BOE USBOTQPSU UP &TTFY

Call 524-9771 x124

or email rachel@samessenger.com

t %SPQ #VOEMFT UP &TTFY 3FQPSUFS XBMLJOH DBSSJFST t 8FEOFTEBZ "GUFSOPPOT IPVST XFFL

Reporter Reporter THE ESSEX

THE ESSEX

HERE

The Town of Essex Public Works Department is receiving applications for summer seasonal employees to assist in all highway, utility, building, and grounds maintenance activities. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid VT Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s License and a good work ethic. Contact the Public Works office for information at 878-1344 or cstoddard@essex.org. Applications for the position must be obtained from the Town Managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office, 81 Main St. Essex Junction, VT 05452, or downloaded from the Town website; www.essex.org . The Town of Essex is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

Call 8785282 to place your ad here

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •9

business Directory carpeT cleaning

carpenTry

BIG MERC’S

High Standards, LLC

H.S.

CLEANING SERVICE INC

Carpentry

Remodeling, Rot Repair, Decks, Windows and Doors

denTisT

Cedric C Pecor D.D.S

• Residential & Commerical Cleaning • Full Line of Janitorial Services • Fully Insured • Free Estimates

Drywall, Siding, Finish Work, Pressure Washing

24/7 ON CALL • Free Estimates • Fully Insured (802) 355-8193 Matt Levee • highstandards802@gmail.com

Serving the community for over 33 years with the best dental care. Bethany K. Fitzgerald D.D.S

802-598-5514 • Jason Mercure - Owner bigmerc@sprint.blackberry.net • WWW.BIGMERC.COM

Edward R. Klingebiel D.D.S

Schedule a dental check-up today to maintain that beautiful smile! Most insurance plans accepted. Accepting new patients. miltonfamilydentistryvermont.com 157 River St., Milton • 893-4734

• ssure Wa

pluMBing

painTing

esTaTe pl anning Wills–Trust–Estate Planning–Medicaid–Elder Law–Probate

FULL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR Residential & Commercial

Adam’s Plumbing S E R V I C E 878 - 1002

• Custom Trim • Vinyl Homes/Commercial • Carpentry • Decks • Lift Work • Gutter Cleaning • Pressure Washing • FULLY INSURED Living & Working in Essex Junction for over 40 years. Call TJ for your FREE ESTIMATE $100 off any job of $1000.00 or more, $250 off of any job $2000.00 or more

Peace of mind for your family & loved ones

The Reliable Local Pro! For all your residential plumbing repairs and installations

802-355-0392

26 Railroad Ave. / Essex Jct., VT (802) 879-7133 / unsworthlaplante.com

real esTaTe

properT y ManageMenT serVices

renTal properTies

ADVANTAGE PROPERTY SERVICE

HIGHGATE

CONSTRUCTION

BURLINGTON

NOW BOOKING! • Spring Cleanups • Construction • Affordable Lawn Care • Remodeling • Yard + Property Care • Home Improvements Learn more @

Specializing in Chittenden County apartment rentals

• Siding • Roofing • Flooring

21 Carmichael Street #103 Essex Junction, VT 05452 Phone (802) 879-6507 Fax (802) 879-6473 www.802pm.cm

GETAHAPPYQUOTE.COM

802-777-7251 • ADVANTAGESERVICE@YAHOO.COM

resTauranT

TaX serVices

rooFing

Authentic Mexican Cuisine IN THE HEART OF ESSEX JUNCTION

Catamount

Accounting & Tax Services, PLLC Your professional Roofing Contractor

862-1500

www.BlueSkyRoofingvt.com Ask about our FREE upgrade

4 Park Street, Essex 802.662.4334 www.ElGatoCantina.com

TaX serVices

• Tree Removals • Tree Trimming • Ornamental/ fruit tree pruning Cabling • Cabling

42 Jewell Street, Saint Albans, VT

AFFORDABLE INCOME TAX PREPARATION

Maxwell Curtiss

(802) 527-9788

Certified Arborist

Night and Weekend Appointments Available

www.tabsinc.org • info@tabsinc.org

• Stump Grinding • Wood Chip Mulch • Shrub and Hedge Pruning • Tree Planting

Business, Personal, Bookkeeping, Payroll, Wealth Management, Life Insurance “Keeping TABS for you!”

42 Jewell Street, Saint Albans, VT

AFFORDABLE INCOME TAX PREPARATION

(802) 879-4425

(802) 527-9788

Night and Weekend Appointments Available

Heartwood Landscape Services LLC

DOWNLOAD OUR APP!

25 Wentworth Drive, Williston, VT 0549505452 67 Center Road / Route 15 Essex Jct, Vermont (802) 662-1214 (802) 662-1215 fax fax (802) 662-1214 ext.•304 • (802) 662-1215 catamountinfo@gmcsvt.com rsinkewicz@gmcsusa.com *www.catamountaccounting.com*

W e a lT h M a n ag e M e n T

Tree serVices Business, Personal, Bookkeeping, Payroll, Wealth Management, Life Insurance

“Keeping TABS for you!”

Asphalt Roofs Asphalt Roofs Standing SeamMetal Metal Standing Seam Slate Guards Slate & & Snow Snow Guards Low Roofs Low Slope Slope Roofs Skylights & Sun Tunnels Gutters NOW- Seamless

Quickbooks Accounting Services Individual & Business Tax Preparation Financial & Tax Planning Business Consulting

maxheartwd@myfairpoint.net / Fully Insured

www.tabsinc.org • info@tabsinc.org

DOWNLOAD OUR APP!

Call 878-5282 to plaCe your ad today

local

esseX police reporTs emergency: 911 • non-emergency: 878-8331 145 Maple st., essex Jct., VT 05452 • www.epdvt.org

March 6-12 Monday

9:41 a.m., Juvenile problem on Brigham Hill Rd. 10:30 a.m., ATV incident on McGregor St. 6:53 p.m., Juvenile problem on Baker St. 9:20 p.m., Threatening on Marion Ave. 11:21 p.m., Family fight on Denmore Dr.

Tuesday

7:57 a.m., Suspicious on Susie Wilson Rd. 8:34 a.m., Animal problem on

Osgood Hill Rd. 9:38 a.m., Suspicious on Sand Hill Rd. 1:04 p.m., Citizen dispute on Logwood Cir. 3:44 p.m., Trespassing on Pioneer St. 6:48 p.m., Accident on Susie Wilson Rd.

Wednesday

3:56 a.m., Suspicious on Greenbriar Dr. 6:26 a.m., Burglary on Kellogg Rd. 6:40 a.m., Untimely on Perkins Dr. 10:59 a.m., Citizen dispute on Lincoln St. 7:16 p.m., Citizen assist on

Baker St. 8:05 p.m., VIN inspection on Baker St.

Thursday

12:01 p.m., Threatening on Railroad St. 2:39 p.m., VIN inspection on Colchester Rd. 2:57 p.m., Agency assist on Bluestem Rd. 4:30 p.m., Suspicious on Bixby Hill Rd. 5:49 p.m., Vandalism on Fuller Pl.

Friday

3:07 a.m., Citizen dispute on Maple St. 7:32 a.m., Accident on

Jericho Rd. 1:46 p.m., Vandalism on Founders Rd. 2:11 p.m., Theft on Lincoln St. Susie Wilson Rd.

saTurday

1:23 p.m., Suspicious on Center Rd. 2:01 p.m., VIN inspection on Maple St. 2:20 p.m., Juvenile problem on Fredrick Rd. 2:42 p.m., Vandalism on Joseph Lane. 3:49 p.m., Agency assist on Fox Run Rd. 6:13 p.m., Found property on Autumn Pond Way

7:38 p.m., Family fight on Partridge Dr. 11:26 p.m., Citizen assist on Railroad Ave.

sunday

12:22 p.m., Accident on Susie Wilson Bypass 8:36 p.m., Theft on Maple St. 9:36 p.m., Motor vehicle complaint on Colchester Rd.

TickeTs issued: 20 Warnings issued: 38 Fire/eMs calls dispaTched: 50

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

10• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

health don't ignore tHese signs of stress The American Institute of Stress notes that various disorders, both emotional and physical, have been linked to stress. Such disorders include depression, stroke, hypertension and anxiety, among others. In its 2015 Stress in AmericaTM survey, the American Psychological Association found that money, stress and family responsibilities are the three most common stressors. While the symptoms of stress are uncomfortable and potentially very dangerous, the APA notes that such indicators also serve as a warning from the body that it needs maintenance and extra care. The following are some of the ways your body might be telling you to step back and make an effort to relieve stress. HeadacHes, muscle tension, neck or back pain: Some headaches or aches and pains might be mere nuisances or indicative of issues unrelated to stress. But when such symptoms are accompanied by stress, this could be the body's way of alerting you that the stress is approaching unhealthy levels. The AIS notes that when a person is under stress, his or her muscles tense up. The contraction of these muscles for extended periods of time can trigger tension headaches and migraines, among other things.

Improve your endurance cHest pains and/or rapid Heartbeat: Chest pains and rapid heartbeat may indicate various problems, including stress. This happens when the body is stressed because stress causes the nervous system to signal the adrenal glands to release hormones that make the heart beat faster and increase blood pressure. difficulty falling or staying asleep: People who are feeling stressed out and also experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep should consult their physicians about ways to alleviate that stress. increased frequency of colds: Stress can attack the body's immune system, making it increasingly vulnerable to colds. The AIS also notes that a weakened immune system also makes the body more susceptible to additional viral disorders. loss of appetite or overeating: Stress can affect the gastrointestinal system in various ways, including influencing appetite. Stress can prompt some people to eat much more than they normally do, while others may eat considerably less than they normally would. diarrHea or constipation: Another indicator that stress is compromising the gastrointestinal system is diarrhea or constipation. When a person is under stress, this can affect which nutrients the body can successfully absorb and how quickly food is metabolized.

run • walk • Roll

Essex Middle School 33 Founders Rd. • Essex, Vermont In partnership with the Essex Town School District An adaptive 5K and Fun Run for folks of all ages and abilities. The Dream Big 5K is a fundraiser to support EDD Memorial Fund Adaptive Sports programs. We welcome: Runners • Walkers • Wheelchairs • Power Mobility • Handcycles 5K Run, Walk, Roll • Starting at 10am Adult($25), Youth($10), Student($10), Adaptive($10) Race day registration will be available for an additional $10. Fun Run(Free) • Starting at 11am Register at: https://runsignup.com/dreambig5krunwalkroll Registration ends March 30, 2017 at 11:59pm EDT Contact: events@eddfund.org or call (802) 399-4366 with questions.

Pushing yourself physically can be exhausting and demanding. But whether you're a seasoned athlete, a part-time fitness enthusiast or even someone who lives a largely sedentary lifestyle, you can find ways to dig down and improve your overall endurance. Many athletes find pushing their bodies past certain boundaries to be empowering. Letting complacency set in is easy, but finding the motivation to press on and push ahead takes mental determination. The following are a handful of ways to push past physical glass ceilings and improve endurance. Join a marathon. The statistics reporting site StatisticsBrain.com states only 0.5 percent of the U.S. and Canadian populations have ever run a marathon. Running on the treadmill at the gym or a couple of miles around the track is excellent exercise. Runners can take their passion a bit further by enrolling in any of the hundreds of marathons and half-marathons held annually. Crossing the finish line after running 26.2 miles is a rewarding feeling, and few activities do more to improve endurance than running a marathon. Try a new gym

class. Pushing yourself physically may mean getting out of your comfort zone. Gyms typically offer an array of classes to appeal to as many members as possible. Take advantage of these group classes or personalized training sessions. Explore barre workouts, TRX and ViPR, which involve loaded movement and strength training paired with cardiovascular workouts. Increase workouts gradually. It can be daunting to think about greatly improving your endurance levels. But taking a gradual, incremental approach to improving endurance is both safe and effective. Also, when engaged, mentally divide the workout into smaller chunks of time. This way you have several smaller goals to accomplish, rather than one large goal,

Stock photo making it easier to digest a tough workout. Use friends to keep you motivated. Having friends work out alongside you can keep you motivated. Workout buddies may offer the encouragement necessary to keep pushing through. Another motivating factor is bragging rights afterward. Have a good emotional connection. A desire to have a great body may not be enough to motivate you to work out and push harder. If not, think of a better reason to exercise, and it may be the mind over matter you need. Many people find inspiration from family health history risk factors or through the goal of reversing negative health reports from doctors' offices. These motivating factors will help you press on and push harder.

A CAMP FOR EVERY CHILD

CAMPS SERVING ESSEX & ESSEX JUNCTION • Camp Koda, co-ed day camps at Founders and Essex Elem. • One week specialty art and musical theater camps • Camp Abnaki, boys overnight & day camp on N. Hero’s shores

gbymca.org The Y’s Community Partner

www.eddfund.org

local headlines

first.

facebook.com/essexreporter

L.D. Oliver Seed Co.

Chick Day 2017! der Pre-Or ! Now

Arrival Dates for Layers is The last week of April Many Varieties To Choose From!

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

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •11

Hornets ousted in semifinals by CVU

fter making its way to the quarterfinals of the Division-I girls basketball state tournament, the Essex basketball squad fell to CVU 45-34 last Saturday, ending its season with a record of 13-9. Emmalee Smith led the way for Essex, dropping 11 after a 14-point performance against Rutland in the playdowns. The youthful Hornets will graduate only one senior, Josina Munson. Clockwise from top: 1) Sophomore Elizabeth Goodrich eyes a free throw during the Hornets game against CVU last Saturday. 2) Junior Emmalee Smith goes up for a layup. 3) Junior captain Olivia Dun drives to the hoop.

Photos by BOB LOCICERO

sports SPORT SHORTS

By JOE GONILLO

hort school weeks are great for all. The next week is the tough week: a full one. Winter sports are about done, and the book on spring sports is almost ready to open. Some playoff news to cover, March Madness slated to begin this week and MLB spring training in full swing. I won’t even mention the weather. The girls’ basketball team opened its playoffs with a no-doubt-about-it win over No. 10 Rutland, 53-29. Defense was again the story of the night. Essex led by three at the half then allowed a mere 10 second-half points to the Red Raiders in the final 16 minutes. Offensively, Emmalee Smith racked up 14 and Josina Munson had 12, while Rachel Botula and Kylie Acker added 11. The Hornets advanced to the quarterfinals and fell to archnemesis No. 2 CVU 45-34 on Saturday. Essex played tough for 32 minutes. They were down 1 after the 1st quarter and 7 at the half. Smith scored 11 as Essex ended the winter 13-9. Our three-time champ girls hockey team lost its semifinal contest to No. 4 BFA in a 1-0 upset of sorts. The lone goal came shorthanded in the waning minutes of the game’s middle session. Essex’s 24 shots on goal gave it the offensive edge. Goalkeeper Lindsay Hallowell stopped 17 BFA shots as the Hornets end the season 16-4-2. Rutland beat the Comets 2-1 in the finals for its first crown ever. Bowling state championships were Thursday. No. 6 Essex lost in the quarters to No. 3 Springfield 4-1. Hornets participating include Sabrina Liguori, Reese Meunier, Parker Ryan, Brian Cookingham and Alex Prim. South Burlington faced Fair Haven in the finals with the Slaters defeating the Rebels 4-3. Congrats to the UVM men’s basketball team for winning the America East tourney on Saturday and making it to the NCAA Tournament. They take their 29-5 record and Division-I best 21-game winning streak to the dace as the No. 13 seed in the Midwest will play No. 4 Purdue in Milwaukee on Thursday. Go Cats Go! More congrats to members of the 2017 Vermont Principals’ Assocation. Inductees include CVU’s Dan Shepardson, Spaulding’s David Ball, Rice’s Keith Cieplicki, Lamoille trackster Lucy Higgins, St. Johnsbury runner Hannah Rowe, Mt. Abe’s Tyler Pelland, Middlebury’s Peter Brakeley, South Burlington’s Paul Jordan, Windsor’s Bob Hingston, and Jerry Jasinski. Bring it Back this week focuses on a few facts about UVM baseball: Baseball has been played at UVM since 1882. UVM played baseball in the first College World Series in Chicago at the site of the 1893 World’s Fair. Built in 1906, Centennial Field is the oldest field used for professional baseball in the U.S. Fenway was built six years later. Essex grad Bill Currier was the longest tenured UVM coach in history, serving for 22 years. UVM baseball consistently had 25 to 50 percent of its roster made up of Vermont grads, the most of any UVM sport. UVM baseball was suspended once before in the 1970s and reinstated. It was the third cheapest of the 20 sports when suspended in 2009. Coaches Larry Gardner (Enosburg), Ralph Lapointe (Winooski), Jack Leggett (South Burlington) and Currier were four of the most successful coaches of any UVM sport. Before Centennial Field was built, baseball was played where today’s Charlebois Trucking is on Riverside Avenue. If anyone is interested in working Essex High School track and field meets this spring, please send me an email. I have a GoogleDoc schedule. The third annual Vermont Coaches’ Clinic sponsored by the Vermont Track & Cross Coaches Association is Saturday at South Burlington High School. For more information and registration info visit: bit.ly/2mllKpc. Catching the Yanks versus Tampa in Port Charlotte this week. Also, I took a relaxing walk through Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary & Blair Audubon Center in Naples last week with my wife. We saw alligators and baby gators along with some interesting species of birds. Where were Mae and Bill Mayville when I needed them? Saw old friends and UVM fans John and Liz Tobin in Fort Myers last weekend too. Great catching up. Happy anniversary wishes to Leslie and Fred Wall as well as Frank and Tracy Anntonuchi. Birthday wishes to Galen McArdle, Samantha O’Sullivan Cooney, Jilby Danis Besaw, Cathy McCann, Scott Smith, Andrea Leo, Jeff Goodrich, Ordina Smailhodzic, Deb Schonberg, Linda Armstrong and Carry McGibney Ramsey.

12• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

local elections from page 1

change over the last six years. Kerin also said he’s well prepared to deal with some of the more complicated merger discussions, like those involving the fire departments. He pointed to ongoing issues like traffic in the village center and the village’s aging water lines that show the struggle of prioritizing projects. He hopes to use the next three years to get the village the “biggest bang for our buck.” Voters will also have a chance to weigh in on the library trustee candidates. Max Holzman, who was appointed by the village trustees when the position opened last year, is now seeking formal election the post. He’s running unopposed for a one-year seat. Holzman previously ran

I sincerely believe we make a great team and are moving the community in a positive direction. I want to keep it going.

a Star Wars after school program, but his time for the club has been limited since his snowboard business picked up steam. He hopes to be elected, however, viewing the library trustees’ role as a way to keep the library alive and well. “It’s a great group of people, and it’s a way to serve the community,” he said. No candidates filed petitions for the trustees’ three- and fiveyear seats, the latter of which was formerly filled by longtime member Linda Costello. Per Samuel Brownell, the library’s namesake who donated it in 1926, the board operates with five elected members alongside five permanent members. He did so to ensure the Brownell family could remain on the board without living in

budget from page 1

Village residents also pay taxes into the town — whose budget included a 3.15 percent increase approved earlier this month — so they can expect an estimated $43 increase on their town bill as well. Voters will consider the village’s general fund proposal during the annual meeting April 5 at Essex High School, beginning at 7 p.m. The village budget would have decreased 1.05 percent without the recreation addition, Morrisseau said. EJRP’s inclusion in the village budget comes on the heels of last December’s failed vote to create a union municipal district with the town’s recreation department. From there, the trustees met with EJRP’s current overseer, the prudential committee, to transfer ownership of the department. The village’s breakdown shows

This year, Costello answered the call, solidifying herself among the library’s leaders. Though the ballot holds two open slots, Packard said she’s confident the trustees will fill the positions. “Things just haven’t lined up very well currently,” she said, adding several people expressed interest but never filed a petition for office. The trustees will now advertise the openings before appointing two people to fill the positions.

- George Tyler Essex Jct., according to board chairwoman and permanent member Christine Packard.

$675,000 needs to be raised in taxes for EJRP, about a $40,000 increase over the current year. The department will also carry over its penny on the tax rate for a total $109,500 in addition to $105,000 budgeted in debt service for Maple Street Pool. The village’s breakdown, however, doesn’t show EJRP’s $1.6 million in expenses that are offset by revenue, resulting in a tax-neutral programs fund, numbers provided by director Brad Luck show. That includes about $1.2 million from the department’s various childcare programs, $140,000 from youth programs and $147,000 from Maple Street Pool admission, membership and swim lessons. Tyler said the trustees received a general description of the recreation budget during a work session December 20, but the itemized breakdown wasn’t ready at that time. He said the full breakdown will be ready for the annual meeting, and he

When a permanent member leaves, that board promotes an elected member to join its ranks.

hopes to post it online as soon as possible. Excluding EJRP, budgeted salaries are down about $52,000, including about $100,000 less in administrative expenses thanks to the town picking up the finance director’s salary this year. The Brownell Library budget is up $22,000, about half of which is due to increases in health insurance and other benefits as well as a $5,000 increase in cleaning services. Expenses are up $17,000 at the fire department, mostly for salaries, with $3,000 more slated for vehicle maintenance. The street department budget, which is picked up by the town, is up about $67,000. A separate ballot item asks voters to consider transferring $96,000 from the general fund balance to its capital reserve fund to keep the fund balance equaling 10 percent of the general fund. The village will also use $60,000 of fund balance to offset tax impact, Tyler said. Notable capital projects include the

Village residents vote on the village budget during the annual meeting April 5 at Essex High School, beginning at 7 p.m. Voters will then head back to the high school April 11 for elections.

Main Street pedestrian bridge, as well as the Crescent Connector, Hillcrest sidewalk improvements and Greenwood Avenue drainage. Consultant fees are up about $17,000 to cover the search for a new municipal manager, with current manager Pat Scheidel set to retire in June 2018. The community development budget is set for $253,000, similar to last year’s total, despite budget actuals showing the village spent an average of $228,000 over the past three years. Tyler said that’s partly because the budget accounts for certain legal fees the department doesn’t end up using. Last year, the department saved about $10,000 in this line item. Health insurance costs were also about $7,500 less than budgeted. “Also, they’re very frugal with their money,” Tyler said.

saturday mornings +NEFCU Your Local Headlines First MAKE ROOM FOR MORE EPIC MOMENTS. Buying a home, renovating or expanding? NEFCU adds the financial tools, tips, services and knowledge that make family memories possible. No wonder we’re Vermont’s #1 home lender. Learn more and apply online at nefcu.com.

800-400-8790 · nefcu.com Local, affordable, and on your side™.

Find us on facebook at:

www.facebook.com/essexreporter

WILLS–TRUST–ESTATE PLANNING–MEDICAID–ELDER LAW–PROBATE

AFFORDABLE AND CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS THAT FIT YOUR STYLE AND BUDGET! NO QUESTIONS ASKED WARRANTY

Your child. Your orthodontist.

ORTHODONTICS

DRS. DRS.PETERSON, PETERSON,RYAN RYAN & & EATON EATON

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile—that feels great, too.

Braces for Children & Adults — champlainortho.net ST. ALBANS OFFICE 80 Mapleville Depot 527-7100

WILLISTON OFFICE 277 Blair Park Road 878-5323

Shutters • Draperies • Wood Blinds • Cellular Shades • Roller Shades • Vertical Blinds • Valances • Woven Wood • Motorization and more!

Peace of mind for your family & loved ones Call today to schedule your free consultation. Register for one of our free seminars at www.unsworthlaplante.com

FREE Personal Consultation and NO CHARGE for Installation! www.budgetblinds.com (802) 651-9366 or 1-888-88-BUDGET

Locally owned & operated

26 Railroad Ave./ Essex Jct., VT (802) 879-7133 / unsworthlaplante.com

March 16, 2017 • The Essex Reporter •13

food

Stock photo With St. Patrick's Day this Friday, Irish coffee is a hot commodity.

The history of Irish coffee

rish coffee is a drink beloved the world over, and one that becomes even more popular on St. Patrick’s Day. The origins of this drink, which includes coffee with a splash of whiskey and Irish cream liqueur, has been debated for quite some time. According to a 2016 story on IrishCentral.com, after publishing a story claiming the drink was first served in the Shannon Airport, the website received a letter from a representative from the Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum

saying the story was inaccurate. The letter stated that the Irish coffee so many people love today was actually first served at the flying-boat terminal at Foynes, which was roughly 35 miles from the Shannon Airport. Joe Sheridan, a chef and bartender originally from County Tyrone, is credited with inventing the drink. But had it not been for inclement weather one night during the winter of 1943, Sheridan might never have dreamed up his historic concoction. In 1943, Sheri-

dan was working as a chef in the restaurant inside a terminal in the Foynes flying-boat station. One night that winter, a flight bound for Newfoundland departed Foynes, only to turn back several hours later when inclement weather made it impossible for the flight to continue on. The control tower at the airport at Foynes was notified via Morse code that the flight was returning, and airport staff, including Sheridan, were called back to work. Sheridan was then tasked with creating something warm for the passengers who had been grounded. When making coffee, Sheridan decided to add some Irish whiskey, prompting one appreciative passenger to ask if the coffee was Brazilian. “No,” Sheridan replied, “that was Irish coffee!” From there, the drink has gone on to gain international acclaim, and perhaps no day is it more appreciated than St. Patrick’s Day, when it

Pet of the Week

continues to warm celebrants much like it did the passengers who were grounded in 1943. Those who want to make their own Irish coffee this St. Patrick’s Day can try the following recipe, courtesy of the Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum: Step one: In your Irish coffee glass, place a teaspoon and fill with boiling water for five seconds. Discard the water. Step two: Put one teaspoon of brown sugar and a good measure of Irish Whiskey. Step three: Fill the glass to within 1cm of the brim with really hot, strong black coffee. Stir well to melt all the sugar. Step four: Then carefully pour lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon so that it floats on top of the coffee. Step five: Do not stir after adding the cream, as the true flavor is obtained by drinking hot coffee and Irish whiskey through the cream.

Photo courtesy of NANCY MOCK

By NANCY MOCK, HungryEnoughToEatSix.com

St. Patrick’s Day is almost here, and it’s time to break out the classic Irish recipes everyone wants and expects at this time of year. This is a recipe passed down from my great aunt Lizzie Reilly for a soft and delicious loaf of Irish soda bread. I have tasted some less-than delicious loaves of Irish soda bread in the past: dry, crumbly, disappointing, undoubtedly not served while fresh. This is a bread with a short shelf-life, and it is meant to be enjoyed quickly. If you serve up this bread the same day it is baked, preferably still warm and with lots of butter, it will be gobbled up. Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes.

IngredIents

• 2 c. all-purpose unbleached flour, plus extra

“’Tis the luck of the Irish” you’ll say to yourself

MOUSE

10 year old Neutered Male Reason here: I was a stray

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease an 8 in. round baking pan. 2. Place the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda and caraway seed in a large bowl and whisk to thoroughly combine. 3. Add in the raisins and toss to mix them into the flour mixture. 4. Using about 2/3 of a cup of the buttermilk, stir it into the dry mixture a little at a time, until you have a soft, somewhat

Makes 8 servings.

Thurs. 3/16 through Sat. 3/18 only

Pick a shamrock to save 30% to 50% off your entire purchase! *excludes gold & silver jewelry

Enter to win a $50 Gift Certificate!

Wise Buys! 24 Pinecrest Drive Essex Jct., VT • 802-316-4199 Open 9:30 - 6:00 • Tues-Sat • www.wisebuysvt.net

802-893-2807

When you see how we’ve filled each case and each shelf There’s so many new products so come take a peek Don’t forget the corned beef and cabbage this week!

Dogs: I have no known experience with dogs Cats: I have no known experience living with cats other than sharing space with my friend Harry Potter and we seem to get along just fine.

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135

Lumber

dIrectIons

Winner announced Tuesday, 3/20

SUMMARY: Mouse was found as a stray kitty near Malletts Bay in Colchester. He was picked up by a Good Samaritan who had seen him wandering near her house for weeks. She took him into her home and cared for him while trying to find his owner. Unfortunately, Mouse soon began showing concerning symptoms: he was drinking and urinating more than usual and would often just sit with his head over his water bowl. And he seemed to be hungry all the time! His finder knew that the best thing to do would be to bring Mouse to HSCC so that he could be medically evaluated and treated. Once in our care, we ran bloodwork immediately and found that Mouse was diabetic and likely had been for a long time (he had the characteristic nerve damage in his hind legs which is typically caused by untreated diabetes). Mouse also had severe periodontal disease with many infected teeth. We started him on a prescription diabetic diet and twice daily insulin injections. Mouse inhaled his new diet from Day 1 and doesn’t even notice his insulin injections! What a champ! He also had an extensive dental procedure to clean his teeth and remove all of the infected ones. He has become a huge staff favorite here at HSCC after we discovered he loved his free time in our Medical Room and he quickly became our Medical Mascot! Mouse has spent the last month lounging around with his calm and relaxed presence, chirping at all new visitors, getting copious belly rubs, and claiming much of our Medical Care Manager’s office space for himself. He has been doing great on his treatment for diabetes and is now ready to find an awesome home to match his awesome purrrsonality!

My thoughts on:

for dusting a work surface during the kneading phase • 3 Tbs. granulated sugar • 1-1/2 tsp. baking powder • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/2 tsp. caraway seed • 1 c. raisins • 1 c. buttermilk, divided

sticky dough. 5. Sprinkle a work surface with flour. Turn the dough out of the bowl onto the floured surface. With floured hands, knead a few times until the stickiness is gone and the dough is smooth. 6. Shape the dough into a rounded loaf. Place the loaf into the greased baking pan. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a slash or a cross in the top of the dough. 7. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350 degrees. Brush the top of the loaf with some of the remaining buttermilk. 8. Continue to bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes more, brushing the top with buttermilk two to three more times during baking. The finished loaf will be browned and sound hollow when tapped. 9. Remove the bread from the oven, turn it out of the pan and onto a cooling rack. Allow it to cool about 20 minutes before slicing. Serve with butter. 10. This bread is best served on the day it is baked. Once the bread is cooled completely, it can be wrapped and stored at room temperature for up to one additional day.

21A Essex Way, Essex Jct. 802-878-0274 www.Hannaford.com

Sunday, March 12th, Sunday March, 19th Saturday, March 25th, Sunday, March 26th

Superior Quality Great Prices

Mill Direct

Kiln Dried 6-8%

As projects move indoors.... HARDWOOD FLOORING 3/4” finished thickness. Random length 4’ - 12’ (some longer)tongue and groove, recessed back (not end matched). MAPLE, CHERRY, OAK, BIRCH Price & availability can vary. Call ahead to confirm.

HARDWOODS ROUGH Hard & Soft MAPLE, CHERRY, Red & White OAK, ASH, BASSWOOD MAHOGANY, WALNUT & YELLOW POPLAR. No quantity too small.

ALMOST WHOLESALE 500’ BF pkgs of lumber - Hard Maple, Yellow Birch, Cherry & Red Oak. Select & better. Ask Ken for details.

25th Year of

Vermont’s Biggest Home & Recreation EXPO

Over 150 Booths!

March 17, 18 & 19

E N PI

BEADED SHIPLAP FLOORING V-JOINT PIPWICK DRESSED 4 SIDE

Cash & Volume Discounts Great Specials • Friendly Service

The A . Johnson C o. WHOLES ALE • RETAIL

L U M B E R

Friday 2 - 7pm Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 9am - 3pm All Pine is Kiln Dried Pitch set @ 170°

995 South 116 RD Bristol, VT 05443 802-453-4884 7am - 4pm Mon-Fri

Pre se nting S ponsor

FREE

ADMISSION COMPLIMENTS

14• The Essex Reporter • March 16, 2017

local

Reporter, newspaper group take home awards

he Essex Reporter and fellow Champlain Valley News Group publications were honored with more than 50 editorial and advertising awards this year at an annual convention celebrating newspapers across New England. The New England Newspaper and Press Association handed out the prizes in Boston on February 24 and 25, including an honorable mention for Reporter sports editor Colin Flanders. This year’s competition drew 3,100 entries judged by a panel of industry experts.

Flanders profiled the Essex High School gymnastics team as it prepared to defend its streak of 10-straight state titles in the midst of a Vermont Principals Association-directed probation year due to the sport’s declining numbers. The judges said the piece had “descriptive power.” The Milton Independent, the Reporter’s sister paper, took home four honors, including a first-place plaque for its Prom for Grown-Ups, a newspaper sponsored event held at Higher Ground in South Burlington last April.

The prom sold out months in advance as guests of all ages looked forward to reliving their high school memories, or, for some, attending the dance for the first time. The Indy partnered with the Milton Community Youth Coalition to raise money for the nonprofit’s programs that support local youth. The judges liked the concept and awarded the Indy first place in the newspaper sponsored event promotion small weekly category. “They created an event around an age-old theme,” judges wrote. “It looks like it had tremendous support

and turnout.” Reporter executive editor Courtney Lamdin took home a second-place award for her coverage on Chris Fanning’s heroic save of Marie O’Connor from her burning home in Milton in November 2015. A local contractor, Fanning happened to be on Everest Road when the 83-year-old O’Connor’s home started billowing smoke, the result of a cooking accident. Fanning’s heroic actions came 15 minutes before fire crews arrived on scene. O’Connor escaped with minor injuries, though her home was a total loss.

OPEN HOUSE YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR

Milton Indy and Reporter associate editor Abby Ledoux took home two third-place prizes for two categories, government and health reporting. The first award was for Ledoux’s lengthy coverage of the Georgia Fire Department’s firing of six firefighters who refused to sign a social media policy meant to limit sharing sensitive information. The dismissed argued the agreement infringed on their First Amendment rights and was retaliation for challenging department leadership. The town said the refusal was simply insubordination. Hours of disciplinary hearings followed, and after months, the town reinstated two of the six members. “Ledoux comprehensively chronicled the fallout,” judges wrote. “[She] adroitly tracked the firefighters’ appeal before the Vermont Labor Relations

Board and in federal court. In a fair and even-handed way, Ledoux explained the impact on both the town and the firefighters.” Ledoux’s other winning piece chronicled local woman Lorraine Locke’s diagnosis with breast cancer, the ensuing treatment and its aftermath. The article was included in the Indy’s annual breast cancer awareness special section, published each October. Additionally, one of the Reporter’s parent companies, The St. Albans Messenger, took home 15 advertising and editorial awards, including rookie of the year honors for reporter Elaine Ezerins. The Addison County Independent, Mountain Times, Brandon Reporter and Vermont Ski & Ride also helped rack up the totals for CVNG papers, a family-owned newspaper group headed by brothers Emerson and Angelo Lynn.

now

of fe

ring

fina

ncin

White gold Sapphire and Diamond Ring FINE JEWELRY & WATCH REPAIR ON THE PREMISES

MARCH 18

•

1-4 PM

WE ARE OPENING OUR HOME TO YOU!

185 Bank Street Downtown Burlington (802) 862-3042 Like us on .... TickTockJewelers.com

Learn about Supportive Independent Living at Harborview and Allenwood

Protect her future.

Open House will be held at Allenwood-90 Allen Road, South Burlington

Services and Supports Designed to Fit Your Needs Included in Your Monthly Rent: Daily Meal (Dine When You Want To!) Dining Room Open From 12 – 6 pm • Studio, One and Two Bedroom Apartments • Utilities, cable and wireless internet included • Weekly Housekeeping • Shuttle Transportation • Wellness Clinics • Activities, Entertainment, Excursions and Classes • Community Gardens and Walking Paths • 24/7 Maintenance/Emergency Staff On-Site

Call Erin Knox Today and Schedule a Personal Visit: 802-861-3750. Take a look at our website: pillsburyseniorcommunities.com.

16 Harborview Road | South Burlington, VT 05403

Always. Let me help you navigate

Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Elder Law, Special Needs Planning and Probate Matters

Holly K. Lemieux, Esq., PLLC Attorney at Law 802-871-5410 21 Carmichael St., Ste. 201 Essex Jct., VT Holly@Lemieux-Law.com www.plantogetherlaw.com

Something to Celebrate?

90 Allen Road | South Burlington, VT 05403

Move-In Before April 1st and Your

FIRST MONTH’S RENT IS FREE!

Tell us!

news@essexreporter.com