The Essex Reporter: April 11, 2019

EHS senior to debut award-winning documentary

Local legislators talk pollution with ADL students

Riley Allen film on opioid crisis to be shown Thursday night at Essex High School.

Discussion part of three-week learning unit centered on plastic.

Story on page 4

Story on page 3

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Thursday, April 11, 2019

School, village budgets pass Chawla, Odit elected to boards

By COLIN FLANDERS

school or work. And with a week left until the GMT board votes on the changes, supporters of the bus route weren’t ready to go down without a fight.

“I just don’t understand how can a bus route be stripped away from people and take their livelihood away,” said Jonathan Edwards, who has rode the No. 4 bus into work each day since

The Essex Westford School District and the village of Essex Jct. have earned voter approval on their spending plans for fiscal year 2020.

The district’s FY20 budget of $81.4 million, which represents an education spending increase of about 1.88 percent, passed overwhelmingly in EWSD’s three communities. Here’s the vote breakdown by town, according to unofficial results: • Essex Town: 273 yes to 77 no • Essex Jct.: 350 yes to 94 no • Westford: 96 yes to 44 no Based on common level of appraisal (CLA) numbers, Essex Town and Junction residents will see about a half cent increase and Westford will see a cent and a half increase. On a $300,000 home, that equates to about a $10 increase in the town and village, and a $47 increase in Westford.

The three communities also easily approved separate articles that authorized a $365,000 transfer into the capital reserve fund and a $8.1 million budget for the Center for Technology, Essex. The CTE budget will raise the center’s tuition by .89 percent to $17,000.

EWSD’s approved budget includes the use of $3.8 million from the district’s $4.2 million carryover fund, which includes unused funds from fiscal years 17 and 18. The remainder will be assigned to the capital reserve

See BUS, page 12

See BUDGETS, page 19

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

Essex state representative MaryBeth Redmond asks Green Mountain Transit officials on Monday night to consider keeping bus service to Sand Hill Road and River Road, calling it an issue of equity for those without the means or ability to provide their own transportation.

Riders urge GMT to keep bus route

By COLIN FLANDERS

S

ave the No. 4.

That was the rallying cry Monday night from more than a dozen residents opposed to Green Mountain Transit’s proposed service cuts to its No. 4 bus route.

The cuts, which would allow GMT to combine the No. 4 and No. 10 routes and create an all-day trip between

Essex Jct. and Williston, are part of a system-wide proposal to create a more efficient and user-friendly service in Chittenden County, according to GMT officials, who attempted to highlight the benefits during a public hearing at the village offices.

But the proposal would rip away public transportation from those along Sand Hill Road and River Road who now rely on the bus to get to

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Vol. 18 No. 15

2 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

UPBEAT NEWS ECHO Leahy Center hosts mentees and mentors Twenty mentors and their mentees from Essex FriendCHIPS joined more than 200 mentor/mentee pairs for Community Science Night at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain on March 21.

“My mentee’s and my highlight at ECHO was opening up an owl pellet and picking through the bones inside to discover that the owl had eaten a bird,” said Essex FriendCHIPS mentor Ann Wadsworth, who took part in the event with her mentee Laura, a thirdgrader at Founders Memorial School.

“It was so cool!”

Mentors and youth mentees from ten mentoring programs in attended the free event, which featured an exploration of the museum’s exhibits, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on demonstrations led by the ECHO E-Team (Environmental Leadership Team).

The event was sponsored by ECHO’s Open Door Program and MENTOR Vermont, and participants received free pizza courtesy of Domino’s. The

COURTESY PHOTO

Twenty participants from the Essex FriendCHIPS program made the trip to the ECHO Leahy Center in Burlington on March 23 for Community Science Night, an annual event hosted by ECHO and sponsored by MENTOR Vermont. featured exhibit for the event was the “Age of Dinosaurs,” featuring replica dinosaurs and interactive stations

include a fossil dig pit, fossil rubbing, and remote-control dinosaurs.

ECHO’s E-Team is a year-long teen

leadership program for 9th-10th grade students that are passionate about science education and sharing their knowledge with the more than 170,000 people who annually visit ECHO. They are guided by Noella Krakowski and Carlie Wright, the Education Programs Coordinators at ECHO, who help the teens develop skills in leadership, building STEM literacy, public speaking, science communication, and teamwork.

Community Science Night is the culmination of six months of work and features the E-Team guiding mentors and mentees through interactive educational experiences. This year’s activities featured an exploration of sources of pollution in Lake Champlain, owl pellet dissections, and the annual Community Science Night scavenger hunt. Mentees also got to have a memorable hands-on experience at the Champlain Sea Tank and make and take home buttons commemorating the special event.

Young Vermonters recognized at the Statehouse for good citizenship Essex students Jack Dragoo, saac Dodge and Sawyer Kless were among more than 70 Vermont students who completed the 2018 Good Citizen Challenge. The students gathered at the statehouse on March 27 to be recognized for their accomplishment.

The Challenge invited K-12 students to earn points by doing a variety of activities related to civics, history, advocacy and media literacy — all crucial elements of being an informed citizen. These activities included attending city council meetings, picking up litter, reading local news articles, writing a letter to an elected official and naming the five freedoms specified in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Seven Days and Kids VT organized the initiative, with support from the Vermont Community Foundation to incentivize youth to educate themselves about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, using their communities as a classroom. Students finished the Challenge by earning 251 points, the number of towns in Vermont.

The Good Citizens met with Governor Phil Scott in his ceremonial office and posed for a group photo.

“I think it’s important for all of us

RyaN DuDLEy COURTESY PHOTO

Patricipants of the 2018 Good Citizen Challenge pose for a photo on the statehouse steps. to get involved and be good citizens, be public servants,” said Scott. And anyone can run for office, he said. “I certainly didn’t envision myself being in the position I am today when I was your age, not by a long shot.”

Speaker of the House Mitzi Johnson (D-South Hero) also addressed the group.

Other Challenge partners included: Front Porch Forum, the Young Writers’ Project, Vermont State Parks and Historic Sites, GameTheory, Phoenix Books and the Winooski Peace Initiative.

DaNIELLE PETRaLIa

aSHLEy HaNLON

Essex educators accepted into leadership project Three educators from the Essex Westford School District will be taking part int the Snelling Center for Government’s Vermont School Leadership Project.

Ryan Dudley, a sixth grade teacher at the Albert D. Lawton School, Ashley Hanlon, a special educator at Essex High School, and Danielle Petralia an algebra teacher at both ADL and Essex Middle Schools, will join 21 other educators from across the state in the projects class of 2020.

The group will meet for seven overnight sessions totaling 18 seminar days between July 2019 and

November 2020.

The leadership project offers intensive professional development for superintendents, principals, curriculum and special education directors, as well as other education professionals who have proven leadership abilities and seriously aspire to leadership roles.

The Class of 2020 is the fourteenth class since the Vermont Leadership School Project was founded in 1995.

To learn more about the Vermont School Leadership Project and other Snelling Center programs, please visit www.snellingcenter.org.

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 3

EHS senior to debut award-winning documentary

By COLIN FLANDERS An Essex High School senior will host a public showing on Thursday night of her award-winning documentary that explores the opioid crisis’ impact on Vermont.

Riley Allen will debut her 30-minute film, “Freefall: The opioid and heroin epidemic in Vermont,” in the Essex High School auditorium at 7 p.m. A shorter version of the film recently premiered on Vermont PBS and earned her first-place honors in the high school division of the Freedom and Unity Youth Film Contest’s Vermont History & Contemporary Issues category.

“I noticed a lot of kids in school using gateway drugs, and my dad, who’s an ICU pulmonologist, would often come home really upset because someone had overdosed,” Allen said of the film’s inspiration. “So I knew that I wanted to do something to help educate students so that kids wouldn’t be getting into using these harder substances.”

The 18-year-old’s film offers a sobering look at what Vermont’s healthcare system has had to confront amid the opioid crisis, using interviews with healthcare professionals like her father, Gilman Allen, who says there were more than 120 drug-related deaths in both 2016 and 2017.

“That’s someone dying every three

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

Riley Allen, an Essex High School senior, will debut her film on the opioid crisis in Vermont on Thursday night. The film starts at 7 p.m. in the EHS auditorium, with a Q&A panel to follow. days from a drug-related event,” he says in the film.

The film also provides information about the causes of addiction and what can be done to counteract the stigma surrounding them. Allen said she used to feel angry when seeing her peers turn to drug use. But through interviews she said she learned that it’s not their fault.

“This is a chronic health disease,” says Jackie Corbally, the opiate policy manager for the Burlington Police Department, in the film. “People need to erase the shame and stigma that’s attached to this disease so that people will come forward and get the treatment.”

And the documentary seeks to offer

a personal touch through a conversation with a former drug user in addition to an interview with Kimberly Blake, a doctor with the Howard Center’s Safe Recovery Program who lost her son, Sean, to a drug overdose in 2017. Allen has recruited her father, Blake and Corbally for a Q&A panel discussion following the film.

The panel will be moderated by Essex Jct. Rep. Lori Houghton, who hosted her own opioid-related forum last year, which Allen attended.

Houghton commended Allen’s willing to take on an issue “many people would shy away from.”

“Here is a high school student who is tackling a very personal yet important issue for our state and making an effort to get it out there so other people can see it,” Houghton said. “I am super excited to see it.”

For Allen, the film doubles as a senior capstone project. She said she chose to present her capstone in documentary form because she appreciates how filmmaking can put so many different media to use, and she added that her interest of filmmaking dates back to her middle school years.

She now hopes to make a career out of it, attending Quinnipiac University in the fall with plans to pursue a career in filmmaking, especially documentaries, though she admitted a few superhero movie gigs would be pretty cool, too.

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4 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

ADL students take on plastics

Sixth graders discuss pollution with local state lawmakers

By COLIN FLANDERS State policymakers on Monday urged local sixth-graders to make their voices heard on the issue of plastic pollution.

“Your advocacy and voices matter,” Essex Jct. Rep. Dylan Giambatista told students at the Albert D. Lawton school.

“We really hear them in Vermont.”

Giambatista joined Sen. President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe (D/P) for a morning discussion as part of ADL’s three-week unit called, “Plastic: Is it good or bad?”

Teachers Peter Gustafson, Bill Burrell and Jamie Caron created the curriculum over the summer. They were inspired by an issue of National Geographic dedicated to the issue of plastic, Gustafson said, and hoped to show students that their generation will need to fix problems caused by the ones before them.

“It’s up to them now, by the time they’re in their 30s and have kids their age, to have a healthier planet,”

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

ADL teacher Peter Gustafson, left, shows off a bio-degradable cup during a discussion about plastics with local lawmakers Dylan Giambatista, middle, and Sen. President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe on Monday morning. The discussion was part of a three-week unit centered on plastic use.

Gustafson said during the talk. “We made a lot of mistakes, my generation.

So now you guys have got to take care

of it.”

“No pressure,” Giamabstia added, laughing.

Students are tackling the topic through the subjects of math, science and the humanities. The unit will include a demonstration with the Champlain Solid Waste District in which an entire day’s worth of trash and recycling will be laid out on a tarp outside the school to show students what’s been properly and improperly disposed of.

During the unit, students will use statistical tools to examine ADL’s plastic use and recycling program, and investigate and build models of polymeric plastics to better understand atoms and molecules.

Under Gustafson’s guidance, students will also persuasive essays to any retailers within a three-mile radius that contribute to pollution in one way or another, and plan to present the SOLAR + WEATHERIZATION + INSULATION + HEAT PUMPS SOLAR + WEATHERIZATION + INSULATION + HEAT PUMPS letters to store managers next week, SOLAR + WEATHERIZATION + INSULATION + HEAT PUMPSGustafson said. Another group of stu+ WEATHERIZATION + INSULATION + HEAT PUMPS Set up an SOLAR appointment with our dents has taken on the ambitious task Set up an appointment with our SOLAR + WEATHERIZATION + INSULATION + HEAT PUMPSof writing to nationwide companies, solar specialists today. like Starbucks and Walmart, to call solar specialists today. their attention to the problem, too.

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retailers from providing styrofoam coffee cups, takeout containers and other food containers, though certain products, like egg cartons, would be allowed still, according to VtDigger.

The bill passed in the senate last month 27-3 and will now need to pass through the House before it heads to Governor Phil Scott.

“Our primary goal is to keep people healthy, and the planet healthy,” Ashe said.

When the legislators opened the floor for students, some offered several of their own additions to the bill, asking for a ban on plastic utensils and increased funding for water filters to combat the use of single-use plastic water bottles. The lawmakers said it’s this type of advocacy that helps inform them about how to best represent their community.

“Everything we do today really impacts your future,” Giambatista said. “You need to keep the heat on us to tell us, ‘Hey, go and pass these laws that we care about that are going to make a difference, because we can’t afford it in the future.”

Furthering the call for action, Giambatista noted that plastic production and trash disposal are big businesses built on consumer habits, so younger generations need to encourage companies through their own actions – the things they buy and the places they spend their money.

“Each of you has a role,” he said.

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The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 5

Obituaries Cynthia Marie Fitzpatrick Blackmore, 68, of Essex was reunited with the love of her life Robert Paul Blackmore on Thursday, April 4, 2019.

She was born on April 30, 1950 to Bernard and Merilda Willette Fitzpatrick.

While going through her paperwork we found that she had written her own obituary. That was just like her to try to make things easier for everybody.

“I write these words without regret, for I have had a great life. I had a wonderful husband who I lost 13 years ago.

My mom and dad have passed, and I lost my sister Sandy. I leave my wonderful daughter Heather Stygles and my son in law Jason whom I thought the world of. I also leave two wonderful granddaughters Chelsea Stygles and her partner Jon Ward and Paige

rUth perrier Ruth Perrier, 91, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family on Monday the 18th of March.

Born on February 1st, 1928 in Island Pond, V.T., the daughter of the late Harry and Irene (Davis) Osborne.

Ruth graduated from Brighton High School and then continued her education in New York City. Upon return from New York, she began working for her father at the Essex County Herald.

While at Brighton High School, Ruth had met her soulmate, Burton Perrier. They married on August 19th, 1950. In 1965, they moved to Essex Junction, where their four children spent their high school years. In 1989 they purchased a home in Winter Haven, Florida and Apple Tree Bay in South Hero, Vermont. Another special place Ruth spent much of her time was the family cottage in Island Pond.

Ruth’s niece described her as a “little spark plug.” Ruth was a spitfire with an impeccable wardrobe. From her colorful golfing attire to her ironed, matching pajamas – she was always well-dressed for any occasion. She was an Orlando Magic super fan.

Ruth loved to play games, from cribbage to cards to bingo. She was an avid golfer and golfed through the age of 85. Ruth loved to knit and started a tradition of handmade Christmas stockings for the family. Her legacy will be proudly displayed through the holidays in homes across several generations.

Ruth is predeceased by her hus-

Stygles and her partner Kyle LeBeau. I also leave four brothers: Bernard Fitzpatrick and his wife Judy, Thomas Fitzpatrick and his wife Sandie, Stephen Fitzpatrick, and Scott Fitzpatrick, and my four sisters: Christina Barkley and her husband Dan, Mary Weston and her husband Ron, Kathy Murray and her husband Pat, and Deborah Bissonnette and husband Mark. Lots of nieces and nephews and great friends I enjoyed spending time with. I am not sorry or afraid to go as I will be free of pain. I ask that no one be sad for me. I enjoyed life, so be joyous for me, and ALWAYS remember me for the person I enjoyed being.”

Per Cynthia’s request there will be no services. However, we will be having a Celebration of her Life in the early summer, at a date to be announced.

Online condolences may be made at www.minorfh.com

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Lorraine, Donald, Joan, (802) 879-4611 849-6261 and Bobby; her grandson, www.dcsvt.com • (802) 878-2220 (802) 57 Main St. 1176 Main St. Ryan Perrier. www.awrfh.com Essex Jct., VT 05452 Fairfax, VT 05454 Ruth is survived by her brother and sister-inlaw Lynwood and Helen Osborne of Spanish Fort, A.L.; her children, Cathy Williams and her husband, Ray, of Milton, V.T.; Rick Clarke, of Island Pond, V.T.; Susan Perrier, of Essex Jct., V.T.; Brian Perrier and his wife, Dawn, of Essex Jct., V.T.; her grandchildren, Todd and Melanie Williams, Nikki and Mohamad Alzyoud, Chad Williams and Ana Anderson, Jason and Heather Clarke, Melissa and Kevin Geiler, Stacey and Josh Cross, Tyler Lunderville, Meghan Perrier, and Dylan Perrier; her great-grand– RYAN G, ESSEX JUNCTION, VT children, Jordan, Christina, Joel, PROOF O.K. BY: _____________________________ O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:__________________ Tori, Shelby and her husband, Devon, Landyn, Rayne, Kaiden, Jaxson, PLEASE Peyton, Austin, Zachary, Grey, Mia,READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE and Tanner; and many niecesADVERTISER: and A.W. RICH FUNERAL HOME PROOF CREATED AT: 3/5/2019 2:08 PM nephews.

SALES PERSON: Deanna Dahlgren PROOF DUE: FP-BFP00084 PUBLICATION: FP-BURLINGTON FREE PRESS NEXT RUN DATE: 03/10/19 A celebration of life will be held Friday, June 7, 2019 at CorbinSIZE: and 3 col X 3.32 in INDD Palmer Funeral Home, 9 Pleasant Street, Essex Junction with visiting hours 11am-12pm and service at noon.

The Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery on Old Colchester Road in Essex Junction.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the UVM Health Network Home Health and Hospice.

Ruth’s family is appreciative of their help and support. Also a special thank you to Monica, Donna, and Judy, Ruth’s caregiving team from Happy to Help Caregivers & Seniors, LLC. FP-BFP0008487-02

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6 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

Perspective

Paid leave: Devil in the details

By EMERSON LYNN The Vermont House last week passed another iteration of a mandatory statewide paid family leave program on a 92-52 vote. It’s a more modest bill than was first anticipated, testament to the fact that making the numbers work is difficult, politically and practically. The 92 votes in favor are still eight shy of the number required to override a veto should Gov. Phil Scott decide to do so.

In the main, the idea of a paid family leave program is a good idea. It’s good for both employees and employers. But, as with any such program, the devil is in the details and before the Legislature gives its final imprimatur, there are a number of questions that need to be answered.

First, it’s not cheap. The mandatory payroll tax would amount to roughly $76 million, and the tax is assessed against employees, unless employers “volunteer” to cover some or all of

each employee’s assessment.

Employees can’t opt out. With a median income in Vermont of $58,000 a year, the tax would mean the median wage employee would see a reduction of $318 annually. That’s not chump change; that’s roughly a week’s worth of groceries for a family of four.

The proposal, as passed by the House, provides 12-weeks of family leave or eight weeks of medical leave.

For those making roughly $28,000 yearly or less, the tax would provide employees 90 percent of their weekly wages. Those on leave who make more than the $28,000 would get 50 percent of the amount they earn above the $28,000 level. The legislation stops paying replacement wages above the $70,000 level, which means the maximum benefit is $1,334 per week, or $16,000.

The good news in the House version is that the governor’s proposal for a third-party administrator was tentatively adopted. Managing a 300,000

person program is not only expensive, but a potential horror show from a IT perspective.

[Remember Vermont Health Connect, which had only to deal with 30,000 people?] Still, there is no clear definition in the legislation as to who a qualified employee is. Can people who work fewer than 40 hours qualify for the benefit? Or seasonal employees?

All would be required to pay, but would they qualify for the benefit?

Has the footwork been done to know that there are third party vendors willing to bid on the work? If not, what happens? If the state has to pick up the task, what would that cost, and how long would it take to put in place?

Have actuaries done the work necessary to know what percentage of the collected payroll taxes would go out as benefits? That’s important to know from a management perspective, and from taxpayers interested in government efficiency.

It’s also important to know that

there are only seven states who have a paid leave program; and the 90 percent wage replacement level is the most generous in the nation. Most of these states struggle with the same issue, which is affordability, which is why it’s important that Vermont get this right.

This is why the governor did the work necessary to devise a voluntary paid leave program by joining with New Hampshire. It was more modest six weeks of leave at a 60 percent wage replacement level. But the costs are controllable, which allows for improvements as circumstances permit.

Given that both sides want a paid leave program, a middle ground should be reachable. But to get there we need to know the specifics. We need to see a comparison between the governor’s proposal and the one being considered by the Legislature. We need answers to the questions posed.

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REP. dyLAN GIAMBATISTA (d)

REP. BOB BANCROFT (R)

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REP. MARyBETH REdMONd (d)

REP. LORI HOUGHTON (d)

marybethredmond@comcast.net, 488-0531

houghton.lori@gmail.com, 373-0599

By REP. DYLAN GIAMBATISTA We just concluded the 12th week of the 2019 legislative session. Vermont’s legislative sessions usually last no more than 18 weeks, which puts us on target to wrap up in mid-May. To adjourn, lawmakers and the Governor have to negotiate and agree to compromise. It’s no secret that forging consensus at the State House can be challenging. I try to work collaboratively with members of all political parties. That means finding common ground with my colleagues and with members of the Administration.

One of the bills I introduced became the first law of the 2019 session, the Ethnic and Social Equity Studies Act (formerly H.3). As a member of the House Education Committee, I led H.3 through the vetting process and presented it on the floor of the House, where it passed on a unanimous vote. The bill later passed the Senate without dissent. On March 29th, the Governor held a ceremony to sign H.3 into law. A large crowd of educators and advocates turned out to celebrate the law, which marks the beginning of a collaborative process to reduce bias, harassment, and disproportionate patterns of discipline of students from marginalized ethnic and social groups in Vermont’s education system.

Other education bills remain in flux. One notable example is H.39, the Act 46 flexibility bill. The House and Senate have passed different versions of H.39 to address the concerns of several Vermont communities that are struggling to comply with Act 46, the state’s 2015 school merger law.

Because of our policy disagreements, the House and Senate voted to form a six-member Committee of Conference to hammer out a compromise. The speaker appointed me as one of the three House negotiators.

I support the goals of Act 46 and want to see the law fully implemented. As we start negotiations, I am reminded that our community was an early adopter of Act 46 and fully complied with the law to form the Essex Westford School District. While Act 46 has been controversial in parts of the state, I believe it has, and will, benefit our statewide education goals and student success. I am committed to working with all sides to ensure we reach the best agreement for our schools, students and families. Stay tuned for updates in the week ahead.

As the pace quickens toward adjournment, many House bills are on the move. With so much activity, we invite community members to join us at our monthly community coffee meeting, which we’ll hold from

CHITTENdEN COUNTy SENATORS Tim Ashe (D/P), Phil Baruth (D), Debbie Ingram (D), Ginny Lyons (D), Chris Pearson (D/P), Michael Sirotkin (D) email: firstinitial.lastname@leg.state.vt.us

8:30 - 10:00am on Saturday, April 13th at Sweet Alchemy Bakery & Cafe (45 Upper Main Street). Please join us and let us know where you stand on issues!

Vermont Senate Update

By SEN. PRO TEMPORE TIM ASHE

Last week the Senate passed legislation to protect Vermont’s men and women who serve in the National Guard from exposure to burn pits.

Vermonters are suffering due to this exposure and the federal government is not stepping up to help them.

During overseas deployments, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq, the military frequently eliminates waste by digging massive pits (think several football fields) and burning all the contents in them.

What gets burned in these pits? According to the Veterans Administration, the waste products in burn pits include “chemicals, paint, medical and human waste, metal/ aluminum cans, munitions and other unexploded ordnance, petroleum and lubricant products, plastics, rubber, wood, and discarded food.”

The smoke and airborne debris from these pits are often inhaled by our service men and women who are housed in close proximity to them.

The VA provides contradictory information about the health impacts on soldiers of exposure to burn pits.

On the one hand, the Department’s website says, “At this time, research does not show evidence of long-term health problems from exposure to burn pits. VA continues to study the health of deployed Veterans.”

On the other hand, under the heading “Health effects from burn pit smoke” the VA states that “Toxins in burn pit smoke may affect the skin, eyes, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, gastrointestinal tract and internal organs.”

Like with Agent Orange or what’s called Gulf War Syndrome, the Department of Defense and the Veterans Administration are not stepping up and acknowledging that soldiers are becoming sick due to burn pit exposure. This is very distressing.

We encourage every member of the Vermont Guard who has been stationed overseas to contact the VA to enroll in the VA’s Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry so that when the federal government finally admits to the harms from exposure these men and women will receive all the care and benefits they deserve for having put their lives on the line for us all.

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 7

Letters to the editor The students in Timiny Bergstrom’s class at the Summit Street School as part of a lesson on writing pieces to persuade others. We will run additional letters next week.

Please appreciate animals I am Madilyn and I just turned nine.

I want the world to appreciate animals, Did you know that the parrot fish eat coral and then it turns into sand? That fact is really cool. The pufferfish also makes drawings in the sand! … People should appreciate and stop killing animals because they make our world a happier place.

Animals can be funny like seals, dogs, and dolphins. A seal is funny because when you say something he claps, which is funny too. A dog is funny because he can dance silly dances and do funny tricks. We can see them everyday. We should appreciate animals because they make our world a better place.

Imagine a kitten with puffy black fur, little whiskers and little eyes. If that cat was laying right in front of you, wouldn’t you want to cuddle it? I would! Animals are so cute! Here are some animals that are cute. A seal that lives in the Arctic is cute because of its big eyes. Puppies are cute because they are playful and funny.

Sea turtles have a big powerful shell, but they are slow and gentle. That’s why it makes me so sad when straws get stuck in their noses. Sea horses are cute in their own way. We should appreciate all

animals because they are cute and helpful in different ways.

They are helpful. Cats can be helpful because they keep you warm and comfortable. Service dogs help blind people get around. A long time ago people drove carriages that horses pulled so people could get around. Also bees help us because they make honey for us so we can eat, so we shouldn’t hurt them. We should not hurt animals because they help us so much.

You should stop killing animals because animals will die then and animals are good for our Earth, because they make our world a better place and a beautiful place. My cat Zipper lived with me a long time ago but he went to my grandma’s house and I’m not visiting her too often anymore. I miss him a lot and he misses me… I hope you will keep animals home safe forever… I love animals so much that I hope I will see them everyday, every hour, every minute, every second, if more animals come out then more you will see them and the more they will like you. I hope you like the story once you read it.

Madilyn Don’t be mean to refs Did you know that every day people are mean to referees? I think we should be nicer to referees. I love to play soccer and I don’t like it when people yell at referees.

One time I saw someone yelling at a

referee. Don’t know they are getting paid to do that? I heard that people were being so mean to a referee he quit! You don’t want to be that person that you were that you were so mean you made a referee quit, do you?

If a referee calls a foul on you, and you yell at them, that is not okay. They’re not trying to be mean. They’re just doing their job.

You know in school your teachers say be a good sport or have good sportsmanship and you be a good sport in school.

So let’s say you have a soccer game after school and you’re doing good and then sweeee, the referee calls a foul you and scream at the referee. That is not good sportsmanship.

Teachers teach you about having good sportsmanship for school and outside of the school, so listen to your teachers and be a good sport in school and outside of school.

Don’t scream at the referee and just be nice. Take deep breaths. Walk away.

Take a break. Ask your coach if someone can play for you while you take a drink of water. Ask your coach if you can calm down in a few minutes. Ask if you can play in an area where you don’t talk to the referee. Ask to be in an area where you will have less fowls. Try to be more understanding.

These are the reasons and solutions that I cam up with on why we should be nicer to referees.

Cian

Perspective

Vermont Values Personal reproductive liberty

By Senator Ginny LyonS Everyday I walk past the giant plaque in the state house hallway with a famous quote from U.S. President and native Vermonter Calvin Coolidge. “If the spirit of liberty should vanish in other parts of the Union and support of our institutions should languish, it could all be replenished from the generous store held by the people of the brave little state of Vermont.” It’s all too easy to forget that for centuries Vermont has been counted on to lead the nation in protecting and ensuring equal rights for all – from the radical notion in the 18th century of banning slavery in its a constitution to being the first state in the nation to allow gay and lesbian neighbors to declare their lifelong commitment through a civil union.

Now Vermont is once again poised to lead our nation by becoming the first state in America to amend its constitution to protect a person’s right to reproductive liberty. Deciding whether and when to become a parent is one of the most personal and important decisions a person can make. Vermont women should be able to make their own choices about sexual and reproductive health care free from political and government

influence, in private with their doctors.

This is why I am a champion for the passage of a Constitutional Amendment that will guarantee the long held value of reproductive liberty. The Vermont Senate has begun the process to bring the proposal to the voters.

In the United States, a woman’s ability to define her own life’s course is continually threatened by the intrusion of court decisions and legislative actions. Today, threats at the federal level are ominous.

Access to contraception, reproductive health care, and family planning – the basics of reproductive liberty – are facing an unprecedented wave of attack nationally.

Women at the pharmacy counter and at doctors’ offices feel negative consequences of these attacks. Women seeking emergency contraception get turned away if they can’t show proof of age.

Women are unable to pay for birth control if employers refuse to provide insurance coverage. Women are forced into waiting periods and medically unnecessary ultrasounds.

Things are different in Vermont. Our state policy for nearly 50 years is to trust women and health care providers to make appropriate and very personal reproductive decisions free from the compulsion by the state. This includes when a woman makes the very difficult decision about abortion.

Personal reproductive liberty, including family planning, benefits the health of mothers, families, and communities.

The ability to delay and space childbearing is crucial to women’s social and economic progress. Women’s ability to access reproductive health care has positive implications for their education, economic security, family stability, mental health, happiness, and their children’s well being.

The Vermont Constitution’s equal protection clause (Ch 1 Art. 7) guarantees the state’s authority to provide for the welfare of its citizens. Proposition 5 is a proposed constitutional amendment consistent with this authority. It creates a fundamental right to personal reproductive liberty. Enshrining this right in the constitution is critical to ensuring equal protection and treatment under the law and upholding the right of all people to health, dignity, independence and freedom. Clearly reproductive health care, including abortion, is a state’s rights issue. We Vermonters have the power to choose, to be clear, to reassure, and to remove doubt. We, not the federal government establish state’s rights. In Vermont, abortion is a health care decision.

A woman should never have to feel ashamed for believing that she has the power to make her own choices. The Vermont Constitution is the highest declaration of the rights and liberties of our citizens. It states the overarching values of our society. In Proposition 5 people will have a chance to cast a ballot that moves personal reproductive liberty from a wellestablished Vermont value to a fundamental right.

the essex

RepoRteR 281 north main St. St. Albans, vt. 05478

EDITORIAL: 893-2028 ADVERTISING: 524-9771 news@essexreporter.com www.essexreporter.com facebook.com/essexreporter twitter: @essexreporter

EditoriAl ExEcutivE Editor Michelle Monroe michelle@essexreporter.com SportS Editor Josh Kaufmann josh@samessenger.com rEportErS Colin Flanders colin@essexreporter.com Madeline Clark madeline@essexreporter.com Amanda Brooks amanda@essexreporter.com community nEwS Editor Ben Chiappinelli ben@essexreporter.com

buSinESS oFFicE publiShErS Jim O’Rourke jorourke@samessenger.com AdvErtiSinG Taylor Walters taylor.walters@essexreporter.com clASSiFiEdS & lEGAlS Ben Letourneau ben.letourneau@samessenger.com

dEAdlinES mondays at 8 p.m.

Published Thursdays Circulation: 8,800 The Essex Reporter is owned by O’Rourke Media Group.

8 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

FILE PHOTOS

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: 1) Julie Miller-Johnson 2) Maddy Young 3) Jonah Janaro and 4) Molly Bruyns.

Essex High School all-league honorees

run • walk • Roll

NORDIC SKIING Division I Boys All-State Charles Martell BOYS BASKETBALL Metro Division Coach of the Year Jesse Coutrayer Second Team Robby Meslin Honorable Mention Stephen Astor GIRLS BASKETBALL Metro Division Second Team

Sunday • April - 14 - 2019 An adaptive 5K, 1K and Fun Run - we welcome: Runners • Walkers • Wheelchairs • Power Mobility • Handcycles 10:00am • 5K, 1K - Run, Walk, Roll Adult($25), Youth($10), Student($10), Adaptive($10) 11:00am • Fun Run • Free Registration and Bib pick up 8 - 9:45am.

Awards and Bib Raffle Immediately Following the Fun Run.

Questions: events@eddfund.org or call (802) 399-4366 www.eddfund.org

GIRLS HOCKEY Tier 1: Player of the year Olivia Miller-Johnson First Team Maddy Young Molly Bruyns Second Team Frankie Martin Essex Academic All-Stars Seniors with cumulative 3.5+ GPA

Essex: Frankie Martin, Maddy Young.

BOYS HOCKEY Division I First Team Jonah Janaro Sam Foster Second Team Grady Cram Tyler Millette Third Team Charles Wiegand

McLaughlin, Raymond A VA Beach - Raymond "Ray" Albert McLaughlin 82,

Essex Middle School 60 Founders Rd. • Essex, Vermont

Register at: https://runsignup.com/dreambig5krunwalkroll Registration ends April 12, 2019 at 11:59pm EDT

Sarah Coulter Honorable Mention Lizzie Goodrich

If you wish to send a card to his children, please send to: Peggy McLaughlin Ulrey 3721 Charity Neck Rd Virginia Beach, VA 23456

passed away on Feb 17th. He was born in Moretown Vermont.

He served in the US Navy, VA Beach Auxiliary Police, and retired from the US Postal Service.

He volunteered at the VA Beach Military Aviation Museum.

Survived by his wife Betty; Children, Peggy Ulrey (Richard), Patty Ansell, Tess Gregory (Terry), Thomas McLaughlin (Edith), Floyd McLaughlin (Merlene), Roger McLaughlin (Edith), Floyd McLaughlin (Vesta), and sister Dorothy Blodgett; Loved by 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by stepson Greg McLaughlin. No services are scheduled. Donations may be made to the Cancer Society.

Send your sports photos to ben@essex reporter. com

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 9

EssEx sport shorts By joe gonillo The girls’ lacrosse team went down in defeat in their 2019 opener to a tough Burr & Burton squad 12-5. Abigael Gleason fired in 2 goals and had an assist. Lindsey Centracchio, Emma Whitney, and Annalise Lubas also scored in the game. GK Ella Frisbie stopped 9 shots for the Hornets. The junior varsity team fell 8-4 in their opener.

Girls tennis was postponed.

Boys tennis defeated Champlain Valley Union, 6-1.

Virginia used every tenth of a second to slide by Auburn while Texas Tech upset MSU in the Final Four that setup a fine Virginia vs TT game. Was never a big fan of Bruce Pearl until I heard his post-game comments about Auburn’s loss to UVA. No excuses, no blaming the refs, and also thanking God for their journey. Respect the man now. Same to former NBA’er Charles Barkley who is a CBS/TBS NCAA Tourney commentator, an Auburn alum, and was obviously devastated that AU lost in the last second but was more than gracious in his post-game comments. Love watching him work these games. By the way, I am ranked 10+ 12+ millionth in the ESPN Tourney Challenge.

Sadly, watched as UCONN fell to Notre Dame in the women’s Final 4.

Baylor edged Oregon to set up an Irish – Bears’ match-up Sunday evening.

Caught the last 5 minutes of that more-than-exciting game which saw Baylor edge ND by a point on a missed FT! Happy with the result. Not a fan of cocky, Irish coach Muffet McGraw No way would I even begin to comment on the slow start by the Red Sox. It’s the first week of April, and even though you want your team to win all or most of its games, a logical sportswriter doesn’t bow to shock journalism. It’s April 7th! Then I read this on CBS Sports…

“This is how poorly things are go-

ing for the Red Sox in the early going this season: They’ve lost seven times in a ninegame span for the first time since July 2016. They lost their seventh game on April 5. Last year they lost their seventh game on April 28.

Boston’s starters have a 9.60 ERA, worst by baseball by more than two full runs.

They’ve allowed 23 homers in nine games. Last year they allowed their 23rd homer in their 26th game. At the conclusion of Friday’s game, their minus-26 run differential was the worst in baseball by 12 runs. Yes, the Red Sox still have 153 games to play and a ton of talent. I wouldn’t count them out yet.” Smart writer!

Last Call - The deadline for the One Credit Union Scholarship application is Monday, April 15th. Go to onecu.org for all the information if interested.

Returned from our three-month trip to Florida this week. Love everything about the trip except maybe the drive. Have an awesome navigator who lets nothing slip. Couldn’t travel without her.

Shoutout to the Essex HS Scholars’ Bowl and coach Dave Rome. The Hornets had a great season. Team members Henry and Nathan Wu, Grace Lu, Peregrine Ibarra, Sam Evans, and Anders Holm-Brown defeated Windsor 370-170 and Burr and Burton 460-255 advanced to the state quarterfinals before bowing to eventual champion, Burlington HS 350-315 in a closer match than the score indicated.

EHS was 13-6 in VT competition and 38-18 overall in matches this season.

Happy Birthday Abby Lacross, Chelsea Cruciti, Roshelle Gallo, Leah Murdock, Mike DiMambro, Beau Cameron, Michelle Kennedy, Tim Albright, Mirjam Gramatazki, Stephen Bishop, Ellen Emery, Amy Kearns Glynn, Lily Williams, and brother-in-law NYG and Red Sox fan Hank Bechtel!

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10 | Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

Begin planning kids’ summer recreation now

M

any families spend winter figuring out how to chase away cabin fever and endure frigid temperatures until spring and summer mercifully return.

Parents thinking ahead to swimming pools and days lounging on the beach can put their daydreams to practical use by planning ahead for their youngsters’ summer vacations.

Youth recreational programs and summer camps can bridge the gap in care between the end of school and the day when classes resume.

Due in part to high demand, parents who want to place their kids in summer rec programs or summer camps should being vetting such programs and camps well in advance of summer. The following are a handful of tips for moms and dads who want their kids to have fun and fulfilling summers.

• Ask for recommendations. Speak with fellow parents and trusted friends about where they send their children. Personal recommendations can be very helpful, providing firsthand insight into a particular camp or program. Schedule appointments to

Summer school recess will be here before you know it. Make sure you’re prepared for camp and other recreational programs.

visit camps that fall within your budget. Take your son or daughter along so he or she can get a sense of what camp will be like.

• Explore all options. Camps come in more flavors than ever before. Certain camps may

be faith-based ministries while others may focus on particular sports. Band camps and art camps may appeal to creative kids. Also, there are plenty of general-interest camps that offer various activities without narrowing in on any

particular one. Parents may need to choose between a sleepaway camp or day camps, depending on which camp experience they want for their children.

• Inquire about camp schedules. While many camps are flexible, day camps do not have the same level of flexibility as after-school programs. Arrangements will need to be made if care is required after regular camp hours.

Speak with camp staff to see which types of after-hours programs, if any, are available.

• Determine your camp budget. As varied as program offerings may be, camps also can vary greatly with regard to cost. Governmentrun camps may be less expensive than those offered by private companies. Day camps typically cost less than those that provide room and board. Find out if a particular organization subsidizes a portion of camp costs. Scouting programs often have a dedicated camp and may offer affordable options for scouts. Martial arts schools and dance centers frequently offer camp schedules.

Factors to consider before choosing a summer camp

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Adults often look back fondly on their childhood experiences at summer camp.

Camps can provide the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and discover rewarding hobbies that can enrich campers’ lives for decades to come.

Choosing a summer camp is no small task, as the options at families’ disposal range from overnight camps to weekday afternoon camps to camps that specialize in certain programs, such as music or dance. Cost also is likely to factor into families’ decisions, as the American Camp Association notes that cost can vary greatly depending on which camp families choose.

For example, the ACA notes that the average daily fee at a resident camp is $85, while the same fee at a day camp is $43.

When looking for a summer camp for kids, families should make the decision together. Kids should be involved in the selection process, as they’re more likely to have an enjoyable camp experience if they had a say in where they will be spending their summers. The following are some factors families should consider as they look for summer camps, courtesy of the ACA.

Kids’ interests The ACA urges parents to consider the child’s interests and personality before choosing a summer camp. Parents might want their children to attend the same summer camp they visited as youngsters, but each child is different. Just because

Get prepared for summer camp season Summer camp season is just around the corner. Each summer, millions of children depart for campsites around the country to swim, hike, craft, and enjoy the companionship of friends.

Summer camps in North America were first established in the 1880s and were attended by children without their parents for overnight stays. By the 20th century, summer camps had become an international phenomenon, and various organizations hosted traditional summer camps or camps geared toward religion, sports, music and other subjects and activities. According to the American Camp Association, each year more than 14 million children and adults in the United States attend camp. America is home to more than 14,000 day and resident camps (8,400 are overnight camps and 5,600 are day camps). Nonprofit groups are the largest sponsors of summer camps.

Many people put off summer camp planning until it is too late. Parents should keep in mind that camps begin registration early in the year and have specific cut-off dates for enrollment. Parents who want to beat the crowds this year can use this guide to help plan a summer camp agenda.

• Attend an orientation seminar. Take the time to visit prospective camps for a tour, and use this open house as an opportunity to learn more about the programs offered.

If available, find a camp employee to discuss your child’s eligibility for enrollment. Some camps may offer webinars for convenience.

• Fill out the enrollment package completely. Each camp has their own requirements for registration. Expect to submit some personal information, including a medical background and proof of insurance, names and numbers of emergency contacts, and any other pertinent information as it applies to the camper. This may include allergies, fears, physical or mental disabilities, or even preferences in camp courses.

• Establish payment schedules. Summer camps vary in

REGISTER FOR

mom and dad liked a particular camp does not mean their children will. The ACA notes that summer camps should align with children’s interests and maturity level.

SPRING/SUMMER CLASSES & CAMPS

Locale Locale may only be a consideration for families considering overnight camps. Kids will likely be familiar with the locations of local day camps, but overnight camps might be set in mountain ranges, near the ocean or environments less familiar to youngsters. Kids who love the ocean might benefit from oceanfront camps that focus on marine biology, boating or other activities involving the water. In the same vein, youngsters who like camping and hiking might be more likely to embrace camps located in mountainous regions.

Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 11

TODAY!

Start gearing up now for summer camp plans to guarantee kids attend the camps they prefer.

price. The ACA says camp costs range from $100 to more than $1,500 per week. However, many accredited camps offer some sort of financial assistance for children from families with limited financial means. If cost is a factor, be sure to broach the subject.

• Prepare children for the physical challenges a camp may present. Summer camp activities may be rigorous, and campers may need to be cleared by a physician before starting. Be sure to schedule your child a physical and bring along any pertinent forms. Children also can increase their levels of physical activity compared to the often sedentary nature of winter. Such preparation can prevent injuries when engaging in outdoor and physical activities.

• Shop for supplies. Camps are likely to provide a list of requirements with regard to clothing and other equipment campers will need. Make sure kids have enough shorts, T-shirts, socks, athletic shoes, swimsuits, toiletries, and other camp necessities before they leave.

Classes start in June and run for 8-week sessions!

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Session length Camps may last as little as one week or up to a couple of months. Session length should be considered by families looking at both local day camps and overnight resident camps. Parents who want their children to enjoy a largely schedule-free summer might not want to commit their children to lengthy camp sessions, even if those sessions are close to home. If parents think their children can benefit from the same structure they’re accustomed to during the school year, then an overnight camp that stretches for several weeks might be what they’re looking for.

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12 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

Youth on

Board

By DAVID VOEGELE Executive director of Essex CHIPS Would readers be surprised to know that there is a movement across the country to grant voting rights to 16 and 17 year olds, at least for local elections? Over 70% of the voters in Brattleboro recently approved such an initiative, and it has actually happened in several communities across the country. Many national leaders, including 2020 presidential candidates, advocate for a constitutional

amendment to empower youth age 16 and over to vote in state and national elections as well. Several studies, including one at Rutgers University, have shown that the average 16 year old is capable of making decisions on political issues as well as those 18 and older.

The evidence is there that teens who are 16 and 17 are capable to contributing to the political decisionmaking that is the essence of a democratic society. We do a disservice to teens and our community when

we think of them, and treat them, as inferior in civic knowledge and judgement. From my 20 years of experience working with teens in Vermont and Massachusetts, I know that they are typically underestimated and undervalued. I say typically, because that is not always the case, particularly in Essex. I continue to be impressed with this community’s support of youth, and efforts to engage them as active decision-makers in the life of the community.

The fact that the Brownell Library, and the EWSD School Board, and Voices for Education, and Essex CHIPS embrace youth participation on their governing Boards is impres-

sive. The fact that both the Village and Town government bodies have indicated an interest in recruiting youth to participate actively in municipal committees is outstanding. The fact that a group of 12 residents from Essex-Westford (with a 13 year old co-chair) have come together to launch a campaign for this school-district defined community to become the first ever Quality Youth Development (QYD) Community is amazing.

One of the tasks for the EssexWestford QYD Project will be to design and implement a process to create a Community Youth Commission, which will give voice to youth concerns and a venue for youth service to the community. Perhaps the Youth Commission will be the launching pad for the next generation of civic leaders for the broader Essex community. That would be exciting!

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moving to the town four months ago.

“This is about people, not numbers.”

GMT officials appreciated the sentiment but said the situation is not so cut and dry. Jon Moore, the company’s director of transportation, explained GMT is facing a million dollar budget deficit, and even though the proposal is cost-neutral, there needs to be some trade-offs.

“Those numbers are people who need to get to work,” he said, referring to Edwards’ comment. “At at the same time, we do have some really real budgetary constraints we’re working under.”

But budgetary concerns held little weight for those fighting for the route’s survival. And while speakers included town government officials, school administrators and two state representatives, the most compelling testimony came from riders of the No. 4 who said the cuts will drastically impact their daily lives.

“I’d be lost without this bus route,” said one mother who works in St. Albans. She wasn’t sure how she could keep her job while still getting her daughter to school. “If you guys are going to take this from us please give us a solution, because I’m stuck.”

Another woman said she wouldn’t be able to get to work without the bus. She urged GMT to give the No. 4 bus more time, believing the ridership will only continue to grow. “You have to invest in the seed before it’s a garden,” she said. “Right now, we’re just a seed.”

And Edwards, who said the changes would not be catastrophic for him because he cannot walk the two miles to his job, advocated for older people and those physically incapable of walking such a distance.

“A lot of people on that route … are not from Vermont,” Edwards said.

“But they wanted to come to Vermont to get a second chance.”

Town and village officials sent GMT

their own letter on Monday that outlined the route’s importance. The letter noted the cuts would take away service from some of the town’s most densely populated neighborhoods while also taking away service from employers in the ever-growing Saxon Hill Industrial Park.

“Many of those businesses rely on public transportation,” reads the letter. “Eliminating Route 4 will hinder economic development in Essex and Chittenden County.”

The Essex meeting arrived on the tail-end of a public outreach campaign seeking feedback on GMT’s proposal.

The process has already produced one change, with GMT officials now backtracking plans to remove bus service along Hinesburg Road due to pushback from the route’s ridership.

After more than an hour of comments Monday night, GMT officials appeared open to altering their proposal in Essex, too; Moore said the feedback shows “it’s only appropriate” to look at continuing some level of service along Sand Hill Road.

He said his staff will offer some recommended changes to the proposal and present those to the GMT board, which has representatives from each community served by the bus company, including Essex. The board will then decide whether to accept the changes when voting on the proposal April 16. If passed, the changes would be implemented June 17.

Moore did caution against expecting the route would remain exactly as-is, since keeping any level of service will force the company to find savings elsewhere. But GMT general manager Mark Sousa, who said the Essex meeting turnout was far greater than any other, believed the feedback voiced Monday night will likely cause a “high level of concern” at the board level, so in his eyes, “anything’s possible.”

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 13

Separate sealed BIDS for the construction of the Essex Junction Fairview Stormwater Improvements 2017 ERPM-11, will be received by the Village of Essex Junction, VT. The bid consists of installation of a new gravel wetland, chain link fence, and rip rap reinforcement. The BIDS shall be received by the Village of Essex Junction Village Office, 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452, until 1:00 PM April 24, 2019 and then at said office publicly opened and read aloud. If BIDS are forwarded by mail, the sealed envelope containing BID must be enclosed in another envelope containing the BID addressed to the Village of Essex Junction Village Office, 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled at the Town of Essex Town Office, 81 Main Street, Essex, VT 05452 on 1:00 PM April 16, 2019. All prospective bidders are encouraged to attend this meeting.

Each BID must be accompanied by a certified check payable to the OWNER for five percent (5%) of the total amount of the BID. A BID bond may be used in lieu of a certified check.

The CONTRACT DOCUMENTS may be examined at the following locations: 1. Village of Essex Junction, Village Office, 2 Lincoln Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

2. Aldrich + Elliott, PC, 6 Market Place, Ste. 2, Essex Jct., VT 05452.

Copies of the CONTRACT DOCUMENTS may be obtained at the office of Blue Prints, Etc. located at 20 Farrell Street, South Burlington, VT 05403, upon a nonrefundable payment of $125.00 for each set. Checks shall be payable to Blue Prints, Etc. Alternatively, CONTRACT DOCUMENTS are available on compact disc (as portable document format (PDF) files) for a nonrefundable charge of $75.00, plus shipping.

A Performance BOND and a Payment BOND each in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price will be required.

April 4, 2019 April 11, 2019

James Jutras Water Quality Superintendent Village of Essex Junction

Easter Worship Services

LEGALS

AUCTIONS 300± Cars, Trucks, SUVs

VILLAGE OF ESSEX JUNCTION PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC MEETING APRIL 18, 2019 6:00 P.M. Discussion of Comprehensive Plan updates.

This DRAFT agenda may be amended.

This meeting will be held in the conference room of the Essex Junction municipal building at 2 Lincoln St., Essex Junction, VT. Legal ad for 04/11/19, Essex Reporter.

Any questions re: above please call Robin Pierce or Terry Hass – 878-6950

Showcase of Homes To advertise your listings contact your ad rep today!

802-524-9771

Taylor Walters x 105 taylor.walters@essexreporter.com

Please look in next week’s Essex Reporter for Easter worship services around the area.

If you would like your services added to our calendar, please email news@essexreporter.com. Deadline to be added to the list is Monday, April 15, 8 a.m.

Find the police reports

online at essexRepoRteR.com

ESSEX JUNCTION RANCH Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, open floor plan plus 2-car garage and private yard with pool! Enjoy the gas fireplace in the oversized den/ mudroom. The updated kitchen features a lovely stone backsplash. Master suite with attached bath & tons of storage. Surrounded by cedar hedges, the yard with inground pool is a perfect spot to host your housewarming BBQ this summer! Offered at $304,500.

The Lipkin Audette Team, 802-846-8800, www.lipkinaudette.com team@lipkinaudette.com

300± Cars, Trucks, SUVs Public Auto Auction Saturday, April 13 @ 9AM

Sat.,(Register Mar. 30 @ 9AM (Register from 7:30AM) to bid for free from 7:30AM) 298 J. Brown Dr., Williston, Williston, VT 298 J. Brown Dr., VT 802-878-9200 • Online Bidding on Lane 3 Online Bidding Available on Lane 3

’16 Kawasaki ZX10R ’14 Jeep Wrangler ULTD ’14 Mitsubishi Mirage ’12 Ford Focus ’11 Acura MDX Bankruptcy Vehicle ’11 Ford Flex Have a vehicle to sell?

Saturday, April 6 ’11 Jeep Liberty ’18 Consign Trail MasterYours Scooterby’11Noon Kia SoulFriday! ’11 Subaru Legacy Thomas Hirchak Company ’11 Volvo XC90 THCAuction.com • 802-878-9200 ’10 BMW 5 Series AND MORE Private Auction of Storage Unit Subject to Contents Change

Robert Rich Daley,Frog last known address of 145 Industries Windridge Road Williston, VT 05495 has Online Auctions Ending owed a past3 due balance of $1,028.00 AprilValley 9, 11Self & 15Storage LLC to Champlain since November 30, Winooski, 2018. To cover 1 Tigan Street, VT this debt, per lease dated June 13, 2018 / June Preview: Wed., Apr. 3, 10AM-1PM 7, 2018 the contents of unit #342 will be Rich Frog Industries has been designing and sold at private auction on April 20, 2019. distributing kid-friendly toys and gifts since 1994.

Auction pre-registration Call We’ve been commissioned toissellrequired. the business 802-871-5787 for auction information. inventory, equipment and intellectual property.

Phase 1 includes: Rich Frog Industries Trade Name and Logo; URL and webpage at richfrog.com; Apple iMac Computer containing 25 Years of Design Files; Rich Frog Industries Prototype Museum including 25 Years of Designs; 3,500 Existing Customer Contacts Phase 2 includes: All Remaining Rich Frog Industries Inventory in Boxed Lots; Industrial Pallet Racking and Warehouse Supplies; Trade Show Displays; Office FF&E.

HERE

VILLAGE OF ESSEX JUNCTION 2 LINCOLN STREET ESSEX JUNCTION, VT 05452

Thomas Hirchak Company THCAuction.com • 802-888-4662

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

14 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

EMPLOYMENT MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS MANAGER The Town of Essex Public Works Department is receiving applications for a half-time (20 hours per week) Municipal Buildings Manager to start July 1, 2019. Applicants are encouraged to apply who meet the position requirements as outlined in the job description. The salary is $30 per hour but may be adjusted depending on experience and qualification. The Town will consider applicants who are not fully qualified if a fully qualified applicant is not selected. A town-vehicle will be provided during normal work hours. This is a part-time position that will be eligible for only pro-rated leave accruals.

Information on the position and application requirements can be obtained from Travis Sabataso at the Town of Essex Municipal offices, 81 Main St., Essex Junction, VT, 05452 or by calling 1-802-878-1341. Materials can also be obtained online at https://www.essex.org/employmentopportunities.

The position is open until filled.

EOE.

Assist Billing Specialist with patient accounts. Monitor overdue accounts by review of the A/R. Send late payment letters. Answer patient questions on their account by phone or mail. Update accounts as necessary with notes on status. Run end of month statements and mail. Take CC payments over the phone. Scan. Other duties as required. Good phone and customer service skills required.

Yates Family Farm Maple Syrup New 2019 Crop All Grades Gallon $44.00 Half Gallon $24.00 Quart $15.00 Pint $10.00.

Contact Garrys Barber Shop 89 Pearl Street Essex Junction 802-878-4010

Contact Susan at (802) 878-4445 X 14 or email resume to syandow@vermontsleedisorder.com.

Candidate with at least 1 year of office experience.

Duties include medical insurance verification, prior authorization and patient scheduling.

Attention to detail, good communication skills and computer skills a must. Generous benefit package.

Send resume to: ksmith@vermontsleepdisorder.com

by March 25, 2019.

PART-TIME EVENING CLEANER wanted for Milton office.

M-F, starts after 6 pm.

Tasks include dusting offices, cleaning restrooms, sweeping/ mopping floors, and emptying trash/recycling. Please call 802863-3063 for more details.

FOR SALE

Medical Billing Assistant (Full Time)

Clinical Office Specialist

CARPENTERS Frame & Finish Tired of short work weeks, no overtime and layoffs? Then join our company today.

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Call Sweeney & Belisle or 802-355-0836 or email: pfssnb@gmail.com

LET'S GET SOCIAL.

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MOVING SALE Sat. 4/13 8:00am - 3:00pm Furniture, rugs, garden tools, carpet cleaner, dehumidifier, misc.

Cash only.

393 Nottingham Drive Georgia

PAINTING SERVICES

For 42 years, Lafayette Painting has provided top quality, fairly priced, painting services for Chittenden County.

This winter, schedule your free estimate and see why we were voted the Best Household Painting Company in Vermont.

Call 802-863-5397 or visit lafayette paintinginc.com

Antiques Market Sundays, April 14 The Canadian Club 414 East Montpelier Road (Rt 14), Barre, VT 8:00am -1:00pm Call Don Willis Antiques for info (802)751-6138 www.montpelier antiquesmarket.com Early Buyers $5 (8am) General $2 (9am)

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 15

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Small Engine Repair

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Bethany K. Fitzgerald D.D.S

Edward R. Klingebiel D.D.S

Serving the community for over 33 years with the best dental care.

Schedule a dental check-up today to maintain that beautiful smile!

Engine Machine Shop

16 Krupp Drive, Williston VT 05495

863-2326

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Most insurance plans accepted. Accepting new patients. miltonfamilydentistryvermont.com 157 River St., Milton • 893-4734

lanDscaPing

Peace of mind for your family & loved ones 26 Railroad Ave. / Essex Jct., VT (802) 879-7133 / unsworthlaplante.com

Plumbing

Real estate

Adam’s Plumbing Condominium Associations Commercial Residential

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Hedge Trimming / Landscape Projects Fall Clean Up / Winter Snow Services Professional quality service at great rates

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RestauRant

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Authentic Mexican Cuisine IN THE HEART OF ESSEX JUNCTION

Roof Repairs & Service

4 Park Street, Essex 802.662.4334 www.ElGatoCantina.com

tax seRvices

Slate repairs are our specialty Residential flat roof experts Free Esitmates Fully Insured 802-232-1116 AlSmithRoofing.com

tree ServICeS ProPerty Maintenance Tree Services including stump grinding,

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20 Kimball Avenue, Suite 102 S. Burlington, VT 05403 802.863.1812/ 800.570.0685 / www.bapls.com

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

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16 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

APR 11

Community

11 Thursday

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH - 61 Main St., Essex Jct., 878-8341. James Gangwer, pastor. Sunday School: 10 a.m., Worship Service: 11 a.m., Sunday evening worship: 6 p.m., Wednesday evening youth groups, Adult Bible study and prayer: 7 p.m.; FundamentalIndependent.

CHRIST MEMORIAL CHURCH - Route 2A, Williston, just north of Industrial Ave. 878-7107. Wes Pastor, lead pastor, proclaiming Christ and Him crucified, Sundays: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., www.cmcvermont.org.

COVENANT COMMUNITY CHURCH - 1 Whitcomb Meadows Lane, Essex Jct. 879-4313. Rev. Jeannette Conver, pastor. Adult bible class: 9 a.m., Sunday service: 10 a.m. with fellowship following. Infant through pre-K childcare provided, cccpastorjeannette@gmail.com; Facebook page: bit.ly/2rDz4NE DAYBREAK COMMUNITY CHURCH - 67 Creek Farm Plaza, Colchester. 338-9118. Jesse Mark, lead pastor. Sunday service: 10:30 a.m., www.daybreakvermont.org; brentdaybreak@ gmail.com ESSEX ALLIANCE CHURCH - 37 Old Stage Road, Essex Jct. 878-8213. Sunday services: 8:00am, 9:30am & 11:00am, www.essexalliance.org.

ESSEX CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - 119 Center Rd (Route 15), Essex. 8788304. Rev. Mitchell Hay, pastor. Service 10:00 am 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 - UCC, an Open and Affirming Congregation, embracing diversity and affirming the dignity and worth of every person, because we are all created by a loving God. 1 Church Street, Essex Junction, VT 05452.

Telephone (802) 878-5745; Website: www.fccej.org Email: welcome@fccej.org Senior Pastor, Rev. Mark Mendes, Assoc. Pastor, Rev. Josh Simon. Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:15 am. Communion: first Sunday of every month. Faith Formation meets weekly at 10:15 am. Jr. & High School Youth Groups on Sundays. Heavenly Food Pantry – second Monday, 5:30-7:30pm; fourth Thursday, 2-6pm, except for Nov & Dec when it is the third Thursday.

Essex Eats Out Community Dinner – 1st Friday of the month, 5:30 – 7pm. Music includes Sanctuary Choir, Finally @ First Band, Joyful Noise, Cherub Music, Handbell Choir, Men’s Acapella and Ladies’ Acapella groups.

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. 878-4014. Rev. Kim Hardy. Holy Eucharist, Sundays: 10 a.m. Visit www. stjamesvt.org; office@stjamesvt.com.

ST. PIUS X CHURCH - 20 Jericho Road, Essex.

878-5997. Rev. Charles Ranges, pastor. Masses: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. & Sunday, 9:30 a.m.

Confessions: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. or please call 878-5331 for an appointment.

Food shelF 9 - 11 a.m. Thursdays and Saturdays, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesdays, Aunt Dot’s Place, 51 Center Rd. Essex Jct. Serving the communities of Essex, Westford, Jericho and Underhill. Visit auntdotsplace. com for more information. aarP Tax-aide 9 a.m. - noon, EJRP, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. For more information about these sessions and to make an appointment, please contact the EJRP at 878-1375.

essex eaTs ouT 5:30 - 7 p.m., Holy Family Church, Essex Jct. Free community dinners for all! If you need a ride, please email essexeatsout@gmail.com

ParenTs’ nighT ouT 6 - 9 p.m., Founders Memorial School. We will get your kids moving with organized activities and free choice options as well as dancing along to some preselected, kid appropriate tunes. A pizza dinner will be provided to all participants from Little Caesar’s. All EPR programs require preregistration at essex.org.

Preschool PlaygrouP 9:30 - 11 a.m., Maple Street Recreation Center, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. Join other caregivers and children for play time. We ask that you bring a drink and indoor shoes.

ToWn PTo carnival nighT 6 - 8 p.m., Essex Middle School. Enjoy games, face painting, snacks, raffle items, music and more!

seaTed yoga 10 - 10:30 a.m., Essex Area Senior Center. Class is free for EASC members, $2/session for non-members. Please call 876-5087 to register.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Embark upon imaginary adventures. Dungeon Master serves as this role playing game’s referee and storyteller.

For grades 6 and up.

seaTed Tai chi 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., EJRP Aspire, 74 Maple St., Essex Jct.

13 saTurday

droP-in KniTTing club 1 - 2 p.m., Essex Free Library.

Teen cenTer 2:30 - 5:45 p.m., Essex CHIPS, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. Open to students attending ADL and EMS. Free; open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. lego club 3 - 4 p.m., Essex Free Library. chess club 3:30 p.m., Brownell Library. genre Panel 6 - 7 p.m., Brownell Library.

Learn about different formats and genres of books from Brownell librarians, and why we like them all. A Q&A will follow the panel discussion.

TroPical Fish club 6:30 p.m., Essex VFW.

12 Friday Music WiTh raPh 9:30 - 10 a.m., Brownell Library. Come sing, dance and play with Raph. All ages.

Mah Jongg 10 a.m. - noon, Essex Area Senior Ctr. Members play for free. Non-members pay $1/ visit.

Musical sTory TiMe 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library.

KniTTing and crocheTing 1 - 2 p.m., Essex Area Senior Ctr. sTeaM Fridays 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Create your own bugs out of pipe cleaners & make an edible STEM project for warmer weather. For Grades 1 and up.

dungeons & dragons

no senseless behavior seMinar

9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Essex Alliance. It is time we moved beyond tradition and see challenging behavior as an opportunity to teach alternative ways to get authentic needs met. This session helps us do just that.

boy scouT TrooP 635 Food drive

9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Essex Jct. The Boy Scouts will be picking up bags or leave bags on your front porch or drop food by St. Pius Church

WeeKend sTory TiMe 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Start off your weekend with books, rhymes and songs! baT liFe in vT 11 a.m. - noon, Brownell Library. Small mammals biologist Alyssa Bennett will introduce you to the fascinating world of bats.

Preschool oPen gyM 3 - 4:30 p.m., Maple Street Park Recreation Center. Come run around inside during the cold winter months. There will be a bouncy house, balls, trikes, a play hut, a mini-slide and push toys for ages 5 years and younger. dance 7 - 10 p.m., Essex VFW. Food served at 5 p.m., followed by the sounds of the band “Hullahballoo.”

14 sunday WoKo Flea MarKey 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., CVExpo, 105 Pearl St., Essex Jct. eatures tag sale items, crafts, antiques, and more, and is a great opportunity for those looking to buy – and sell . auxiliary breaKFasT 9 - 11 a.m., Essex VFW.

Free verMonT sTaTe insPecTion day 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Green Mountain Harley. The service dept. will be happy to inspect your bike free of charge. No appt. needed.

15 Monday Mah Jongg 10 a.m. - noon, Essex Area Senior Ctr. Members play for free. Non-members pay $1/ visit. Newcomers are always welcomed! sTory TiMe WiTh eMily 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Drop in for stories, songs and a craft.

Tech helP WiTh cliF Noon - 1 p.m., Brownell Library. Offering one-on-one technology help. Reservation required. Please call 878-6955 at least 24 hours in advance. bridge 12:30 - 3:30 p.m, Essex Area Senior Center. New players invited!

TWeen cenTer 3 - 5:45 p.m., Essex CHIPS, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. Open to students attending Thomas Fleming School. Free. read WiTh Pugsley 3:15 - 4:45 p.m., Brownell Library. Practice reading with our new therapy dog and friend, Pugsley.

MoPs evening MeeTing 6:30 - 8:45 p.m., Essex Alliance Church, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. Mothers of Preschoolers exists to meet the needs of moms with different lifestyles who all share a similar desire to be the very best moms they can be!

16 Tuesday MoPs Morning MeeTing 9 a.m., Essex Alliance Church, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex Jct. (See Monday, Jan. 7)

Preschool PlaygrouP 9:30 - 11 a.m., Maple Street Recreation Center, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. sTory TiMe 10 - 10:45 a.m., Brownell Library. Picture books, sign language, songs, rhymes, flannel stories and early math activities. bingo 12:30 - 3:30 p.m., Essex Area Senior Ctr. Every card costs a penny, so if you play 10 cards, each game costs a dime.

PoeTry reMix 2:30 - 4 p.m., Brownell Library. Celebrate National Poetry Month, by trying your hand at blackout and collage poems. yoga WiTh Jonah 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., First Congregational Church,1 Church St., Essex Jct. Donations welcome, but not required.

Calendar Drop-In KnIttIng 6:30 - 8 p.m., Essex Free Library.

17 WeDnesDay story tIme 10 - 10:45 a.m., Brownell Library. Picture books, sign language, songs, rhymes, flannel stories and early math activities. tech tIme 10 - 11 a.m., Essex Free Library. Drop in with your device and your questions!

BaBytIme 10 - 11 a.m., Essex Free Library. For infants through pre-walkers. tech help WIth clIf Noon - 1 p.m., Brownell Library. (See Monday, April 1) rotary cluB of essex Noon - 1:15 p.m., The Essex, 70 Essex Way, Essex Jct. Visitors are always welcome. mInecraft cluB 1 - 2 p.m., Brownell Library.

Come play Minecraft creatively with other homeschoolers. Bring your own device with Minecraft pocket edition downloaded on it. For ages 7-12. open stuDIo 3 - 4 p.m., Essex Free Library. The library supplies the materials, you bring the creativity.

ZIne cluB: earth Day 3 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. This month we will celebrate Earth Day! Share your favorite outdoor activities and stories or tell us how you take care of the earth. reaD to DaIsy 3:15 - 4:15 p.m., Brownell Library. Daisy loves to listen to kids read. She is Certified by Therapy Dogs of Vermont. For all ages.

QualIty youth Development commIttee

7 p.m., Essex High School Library. Participants can expect lively conversation and light refreshments.

great DecIsIons: DecoDIng u.s. - chIna traDe

7 p.m., Brownell Library. What other tools can the United States employ to counter China’s unfair trade practices?

sprIng BanD concert 7 - 8:30 p.m., Essex High School.

18 thursDay preschool playgroup 9:30 - 11 a.m., Maple Street Recreation Center, 75 Maple St., Essex Jct. Join other caregivers and children for play time. We ask that you bring a drink and indoor shoes. seateD yoga 10 - 10:30 a.m., Essex Area Senior Center. Class is free for EASC members, $2/session for non-members. Please call 876-5087 to register.

APR 21

local meetIngs thursDay, aprIl 11 6:30 p.m., town planning commission, Town offices, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.

tuesDay, aprIl 16 6:30 p.m., Brownell library trustees, Brownell Library, 6 Lincoln St., Essex Jct. 6:30 p.m., school Board, Essex High School Library, 2 Educational Dr., Essex Jct.

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 17

Donate Your...

List your event here!

Email calendar listings at least two weeks in advance to calendar@essexreporter. com.

To place an ad, contact Taylor Walters at 524-9771 ext. 105 or taylor. walters@samessenger.com.

Car, Boat, Trailer/Camper ...and help build homes!

Green Mountain

VERMONTHABITAT.ORG MILTON

414 Route 7 South Open W-F 10-6. Sat. & Sun 10-5

857-5296

WILLISTON

528 Essex Road (Rt. 2A) Open M-F 10-6. Sat. & Sun 10-5

872-8726

FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • ART • HOUSEWARES • RUGS • TOOLS • BUILDING MATERIALS

thursDay, aprIl 18 6 p.m., village planning commission, Lincoln Hall, 2 Lincoln St., Essex Jct.

tuesDay, aprIl 9 7 p.m., Joint meeting village trustees/town selectboard, Town offices, 81 Main St., Essex Jct.

seateD taI chI 12:30 - 1:30 p.m., EJRP Aspire, 74 Maple St., Essex Jct.

with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math. . For grades 1 and up.

aDult BooK DIscussIon Noon, Essex Free Library. This month discuss “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones.

movIe: fantastIc Beasts, the crImes of grInDeWalD 6:20 - 8:35 p.m., Brownell Library. Rated PG-13, 134 min. Free popcorn & drinks!

Drop-In KnIttIng cluB 1 - 2 p.m., Essex Free Library.

20 saturDay

lego cluB 3 - 4 p.m., Essex Free Library.

heavenly cents thrIft shop 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Spring Grand Opening. All inventory is now for spring and summer.

chess cluB 3:30 p.m., Brownell Library.

We provide chess sets and you provide the strategy.

All ages and skill levels are welcome. mount mansfIelD scale moDelers 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Brownell Library, Essex Jct. An informal gathering of scale model enthusiasts and model builders.

Show off projects, discuss modeling tips and techniques and gain inspiration from fellow modelers. Call 879-0765 after 6 p.m. for more information.

19 frIDay BaBy tIme

9:30 a.m., Brownell Library.

Meet other families, read a board book, learn some sign language and play.

mah Jongg 10 a.m. - noon, Essex Area Senior Ctr. Members play for free. Non-members pay $1/ visit. musIcal story tIme 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Rock ‘n’ read with Caitlin on Friday mornings with books, songs and instruments. All ages.

KnIttIng anD crochetIng 1 - 2 p.m., Essex Area Senior Ctr. steam frIDays 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Brownell Library. Create and explore

easter egg hunt

10 a.m., Maple St. Park.

Bring your basket or bag to search for and collect precious treats and eggs! Celebrate the first taste of spring with your neighbors from the Essex community. Dress appropriately for the weather.

WeeKenD story tIme 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Essex Free Library. Start off your weekend with books, rhymes and songs! the rules of the (fInancIal) roaD: InvestIng 2 p.m., Brownell Library.

You’ll learn: The most common investing mistakes and how to avoid them; Investing strategies to help reach your long-term goals; What you can do now to prepare for retirement. Join Financial Adviser Benjamin Ross to learn more about smart investing. preschool open gym 3 - 4:30 p.m., Maple Street Park Recreation Center.

21 sunDay free vermont state InspectIon Day 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Green Mountain Harley. The service dept. will be happy to inspect your bike free of charge. No appt. needed.

Pet of the Week STORMY

~ 1 year old Neutered male ~ Breed: Domestic shorthair Reason here: Transport from Good Karma Arrival Date: 3/11/2019 Pet Rescue in Florida We’re all ready for springtime sunshine, but there’s just something about this Storm-y system that you want to keep around! Sweet, friendly, and playful, Stormy is an allaround great cat who is more than ready to roll into a new home. He’s been trying to “brush off the clouds and cheer up”, but shelter life has been a challenge for this sensitive soul. Stormy is looking for a loving family who can help him settle in and clear up those grey skies. He has his happy face - now he just needs a happy home!

Stormy is currently in foster care, so ask an HSCC staff member how you can meet this fantastic fella!

Cats: I am living with cats here at HSCC and may do well with another Dogs: I have no history with dogs

Humane Society of Chittenden County 802-862-0135 chittendenhumane.org

L.D. Oliver Seed Co.

r Now! e d r O Pre

Chick Day 2019!

Meat Birds, Ducks, Guineas Hens, Turkeys Many Varieties to Choose From!

Arrival dates for Layers is the week of April 15 L.D. Oliver Seed Company, Inc.Green Mountain Fertilizer Co. 26 Sunset Ave., Milton, VT • 802 893-4628 Mon-Fri 7:30 -5:30, Sat 8:00-4:00, Closed Sun

Greek pastry & Take-out dinner Saturday, april 13th

Pastry sales start at 10 a.m.

Greek pastries, spinach pie

Take-Out Dinner starts at 11 a.m.

Chicken souvlaki, beef gyro and falafel dinner Vegetarian option with rice pilaf and greek salad All dinners are served as platters from 11am-7pm

Greek Orthodox Church • 862-2155 Corner of Ledge Road & South Willard Street Additional parking at Christ the King Church

18 | The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019

DONATIONS OF NEW & USED*: • • • •

Appliances Furniture Tools Kitchen Cabinets

• Home Decor Items • Cars & Trucks • Even the Kitchen Sink!

MILTON

WILLISTON

414 Route 7 South Open W-F 10-6.

Sat. & Sun 10-5 891-9829

528 Essex Road (Rt. 2A) Open M-F 10-6.

Sat. & Sun 10-5 857-5296

FREE PICKUP • 857-5296 • vermonthabitat.org

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

John Churchman and his dogs pose for a photo in the ArtHound Gallery, which Churchman is opening with his wife, Jennifer, in the Essex Experience Center (previously known as the Essex Outlets).

Churchmans to open art gallery in Essex

By COLIN FLANDERS

Lumber

Superior Quality Great Prices

Mill Direct

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John and Jennifer Churchman, owners of a local farm and authors of the best-selling children’s books series, “Sweet Pea & Friends,” recently announced plans for their next chapter: a new art gallery in the Essex Experience Center, formerly known as the Essex Outlets.

The ArtHound Gallery, named with the couple’s seven dogs in mind, will spread out across 7,400-square feet of retail space, making it one of the state’s largest art galleries, according to John Churchman, who said the goal is to create a community arts center drawing on the works of “so many good artists in this area.”

“We really wanted to feel like we could create a place ... where artists could gather and we could really promote the arts,” John Churchman said.

“I’ve always been very passionate about them. I feel like art gives spice to life.”

“We don’t necessarily have to want to go down to Burlington or Stowe to go see art,” he added.

One artist who plans to display art at the gallery is Jess Polanshek, a Fairfax illustrator who stopped by ArtHound last week to chat with John Churchman. She shared excitement over Churchman’s hope to create a community space where artists can gather and work together.

“It’s definitely needed in the Essex area,” Polanshek said. “I don’t know any other spaces like that.”

The Churchmans are now remodeling the former Phoenix Books shop and plan to expand into a space nextdoor now occupied by Carter’s, which sought a buyout of its lease following the company’s move into Williston,

according to Peter Edelmann, owner of the center.

The gallery plans to open its initial space in early June, with work to remodel the Carter’s shop to follow.

John Churchman’s idea for the ArtHound Gallery follows 25 years of involvement in the local arts scene through the nonprofit Frog Hollow, which supports the fine arts in Vermont. Standing last week in the midst of the remodeling project, he laid out his vision for the gallery, including how it plans to sustain itself financially.

In addition to showcasing art from Vermont artists both well-established and up-and-coming, employing a 60-40 split on commissions, the ArtHound plans to offer framing, printmaking and copying services, plus art tours and classes for both local residents and tourists coming through the Essex Resort and Spa. He said they also hope to install some sort of garden area out in front of the shop.

“Our approach is to go for both the high end and the medium range, right down to inexpensive art,” John Churchman said. “I’d like to have the best collection of coffee mugs, and local products like honey, maple – things people buy throughout the season.”

“The idea is to engage both the people that come to the Essex Spa and Resort, and the local community,” he continued. “There’s a lot of people out here.”

The Churchmans’ vision meshes well with that of Edelmann, who over the last year has unveiled a rebranding effort in hopes of revitalizing his shopping center. His goal is to get away See ART, page 19

The Essex Reporter | Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 19

PHOTO BY COLIN FLANDERS

Maggie Donahue casts a ballot at the Essex High School polls on Tuesday morning.

budgETS from page 1 fund for a long-term facilities study to look at the merged district’s over one million square feet of building space and highlight any necessary improvements.

The budget also provides $635,000 in one-time funds to continue on the promise of merger and social and emotional learning in a two-part plan that includes the hiring of five additional board certified behavioral analysts (BCBAs) and a new co-principal for Essex Elementary and Founders Memorial School, who will work with current building principals.

Administrators said if the district decides to continue funding the positions, it will need to find cost savings in the next budget cycle.

In school board elections, Todd Odit won the village’s open seat, taking 324 votes to beat Joanne Jewell, who finished with 93. Incumbents Kim Gleason and Al Bombardier, running unopposed for two seats in the townoutside-the-village, earned 287 votes and 248 votes, respectively.

Village elections, meanwhile, saw Raj Chawla handily win election to fill Rep. Lori Houghton’s seat, earning 303 votes to Amber Thibeault’s 118.

Jeanne Grant, Helen Soule Donahey and Beth Custer were each elected to seats on the Brownell Library board of trustees, and Steven Eustis was reelected as moderator.

Tuesday’s vote comes six days after 116 village residents approved the village’s municipal budget of $5.1 mil-

lion by a unanimous voice vote at the annual meeting.

The spending plan represents a 4.24 percent increase over the current year and will bump the municipal tax rate by an even 3 percent, raising village taxes on a $280,000 property by $26.

Among the biggest increases were a $47,000 hike in contributions to the capital fund, $21,000 in salary increases, $48,000 in employee benefits, $17,000 in fire salaries to align with the town department and $19,000 for custodial services for the Essex Jct. Recreation and Parks department.

The budget also includes an expected $7,000 in revenue from EJRP’s nonresident fees, which the trustees initially ditched at the request of EJRP director Brad Luck but later reinstated following a packed meeting in which village residents advocated to keep the system as-is.

The village budget also features a $50,000 transfer from the town – representing about half the unified clerk’s salary and benefits – which dropped the village’s tax rate increase to the easier-to-stomach percentage of 3 percent.

Voters spent little time debating at the April 3 meeting. They passed it in under 40 minutes – a timeframe that included a PowerPoint presentation and two songs from Essex High School’s select choir.

The 945 ballots cast on Tuesday across EWSD’s three communities represent a 5.34 percent turnout.

ART from page 18 from a traditional retail outlet center and instead focus on what he calls “experiences,” which he believes will appeal to three different populations: residents, tourists and the Burlington college scene.

To that end, Edelmann rattled off a few other recent developments in addition to the art gallery: the opening of Double E Entertainment Center, the announcement of a soon-to-open brewery and the upcoming expansion of the center’s green space, which he hopes might encourage a farmers’ market.

John Churchman cited Edelmann’s vision as a major reason why he was so excited to get the gallery up and running. He said the gallery will fit in well with the increased focus on local businesses – the types of places that carry “stuff you can’t get on Amazon.”

“We really want to cater to people who want to come in and have a really great experience, see great art,” John Churchman said, adding that along with the other changes Edelmann noted, the center can finally become “a real place for people to come together.”

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