Winter Solstice
Art connection
Rowan brings its signature sounds to Pierson
Craft school opens new space at Harbor Place
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Volume 52 Number 50
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December 14, 2023
Bike, pedestrian strategic plan paves path forward LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER
COURTESY OF SHELBURNE POLICE DEPARTMENT
A car ran into the Shelburne Post Office Dec. 6, causing significant damage to the front of the building.
Car smashes into Shelburne Post Office LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER
Most days a trip to the post office is just a mundane part of the weekly routine unless you were at the Shelburne Post Office last Wednesday when a car plowed into the side of the building. On Dec. 6 at around 11 a.m. Shelburne police said 75-year-
old Linda Hansen attempted to park her Toyota Corolla in the lot when her foot hit the accelerator instead of the brake. The vehicle lunged and struck the building, causing significant damage to the main entrance, including knocking down one of its outside columns. Shelburne fire and rescue and Charlotte Rescue also respond-
ed to the scene on Falls Road in Shelburne. Hansen was transported to University of Vermont Medical Center by Charlotte Rescue for evaluation as a precautionary measure and police said there was no indication of impairment. See POST OFFICE on page 13
The Shelburne Bike and Pedestrian Committee has unveiled a long-awaited plan to shape future infrastructure for pedestrians, cyclists and others. The reason for the new strategic plan, the group says, is to create a cohesive, thoughtful approach on how to incorporate new sidewalks, bike lanes and paths into the town’s future. Past projects have resulted in routes that lack connectivity and that fail to separate pedestrians and cyclists from vehicle traffic. In January 2023, the committee identified a need for a strategic plan to coalesce different visions for a network of paths in town. Using a slew of past studies, the plan defines goals and objectives to guide the town’s priorities and to inform recommendations to the selectboard as it puts together annual budgets. Last month, the planning commission recommended approval of the town’s draft capital improvement plan for the next five years, which includes several of the bike and pedestrian projects outlined in the new plan. The bike and pedestrian group has narrowed its wish list to three major areas: village and school access and connectivity, looping the Ti-Haul Trail, and neighborhood connectors. Within those categories come projects like expanding sidewalks in downtown Shelburne, connecting Webster Road to village businesses and the Shelburne Community School, along with connecting the Hullcrest Park Neighborhood in some way. Although the group plans to apply for up to five grants a year to execute its ambitious goals, how to leverage a local funding source has not been figured out. The town currently funds
bike and pedestrian projects two ways. First is the highway department’s budget $50,000 allocation for traffic and pedestrian safety, which the group is proposing to raise to $75,000. “That has provided money for things like speed feedback signs and the Harrington Avenue flashing crosswalk that should get installed any day now,” committee chair Nicole Carpenter said. “So, there’s a small budget that was used for making some pedestrian traffic safety improvements.” The second funding mechanism is for larger projects to be submitted to the selectboard on a case-by-case basis. Although a significant chunk of American Rescue Plan Act funds have allocated to some projects, the selectboard is interested in exploring a similar funding model like in South Burlington that designates one penny on the tax rate to the creation of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure throughout the city. “As much as I love driving in our town, I also know when to get to South Burlington it’s so much easier place to walk and bike,” selectboard member Andrew Everett said. “They have built funding mechanisms to do that, so I think that’s the other piece we need to look at some sort of permanent funding mechanism.” Although town officials have expressed a commitment to bike and pedestrian projects in the past, to the knowledge of committee members, this is the first time the town has adopted a plan that outlines tangible steps forward. “It is a living, dynamic document that we hope to help guide all these efforts, particularly our efforts moving forward,” Carpenter said. “The goal is if the strategic plan doesn’t become out of date, it’ll last much longer than five years.”
Page 2 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
We Deliver Good Cheer to All!
CHRISTMAS CLASSIC
Rowan plays Pierson
NORTH POLE
CHAPPELL’S FLORIST — A LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESS —
1437 Williston Road, South Burlington 802.658.4733 | chappellsflorist.com PHOTO BY MIKE REILLY
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Roots band Rowan will play a Winter Solstice concert at the Pierson Library in Shelburne on Thursday, Dec. 21, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Band members from left, Scott McGrath, Graham Parker, Pat McKenzie, Gerry Feenan, Marshall Paulsen and Katelyn McKenzie.
BURLINGTON, VERMONT
2023
News from Pierson Library Here are some upcoming events at Pierson Library in Shelburne during December. To register, call 802-985-5124.
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Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a magical concert by the band Rowan featuring their resonant tunes in Celtic, folk, traditional, Appalachian and Americana genres. Known for their full sound and heartfelt arrangements, Rowan has graced stages like Flynn Theater and St. Michael’s College. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with this musical journey in the old-world beauty of town hall. No advance registration necessary.
“The Right to Read” film screening, panel discussion Thursday, Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m.: Screening of the documentary “The Right to Read” featuring Oakland-based NAACP activist Kareem Weaver, who passionately advocates for improved reading instruction. The film explores the early literacy crisis in America and the profound consequences of a lack of literacy on a child’s future. After the screening, engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion with local experts to delve into challenges and explore solutions for enhancing early literacy education in our community. Be part of this crucial conversation inspiring positive change. Appropriate for adults. No advance registration necessary.
Pokémon club COME STOP BY THE STUDIO ANY TIME M - F 9 AM - 4 PM
Celebrate Winter Solstice at concert with Rowan
Saturdays, Dec. 16 and 23, 2-4 p.m. Pokémon fans gather to play Pokémon Battle Academy. Meet fellow enthusiasts and spend a few hours sharing your knowledge of all things Pokémon. Space is limited. Registration required.
Tuesday night book club Tuesday, Dec. 19, 7-8 p.m. This month the Tuesday night book group will read “Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett. Copies of the book will be available at
the adult circulation desk on the second floor.
Gingerbread house construction Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Build a graham cracker gingerbread village to bring home and take a walk through an amazing gingerbread house display, courtesy of the Day School community. Space is limited. Registration required.
Winter Solstice celebration Thursday, Dec. 21, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Celebrate the shortest day of the year. Learn about the ways the return of daylight is celebrated around the world with solstice themed stories, crafts and snacks. Appropriate for ages 4 and up. Space is limited. Registration required.
Shelburne acoustic jam Thursday, Dec. 21, 6:30-8 p.m. What could be better than a free evening of singing and music? Join like-minded musicians and music listeners for an evening of bluegrass, country and folk music played by local musicians. Appropriate for all ages. No registration necessary.
Read to a dog Saturday, Dec. 23, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Celebrate the joy of reading with Taffy, a certified therapy dog. Join the Read to a Dog program to enhance literacy skills in the company of this furry friend. Taffy provides a supportive and non-judgmental environment, making reading a rewarding experience for emerging readers. Boost confidence and fluency with Taffy by your side. Space is limited. Registration required.
Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 3
Gun incident
School district, police apologize for lapse in communication COREY MCDONALD STAFF WRITER
The Champlain Valley School District and the Hinesburg Police Department in a joint statement acknowledged the need for “better communication and collaboration” following a jumbled response to last week’s discovery of a handgun and drugs at the Hinesburg Community School. In the aftermath of the incident on Dec. 1, when Hinesburg Community School students discovered a loaded handgun and, later, more than 30 grams of suspected crack cocaine outside of the school, the district and police department offered conflicting narratives of events, and some parents expressed concern that information was not relayed to them in a timely manner. (Read the complete statement, this page) Both parties in their statement apologized to the Hinesburg community for “any distress or confusion this may have caused” and noted that they were “working toward a robust and effective partnership in the future.” The statement, issued Friday, followed several meetings between school and town officials, including the school district Superintendent Rene Sanchez, chief operations officer Gary Marckres, Hinesburg police chief Anthony Cambridge and Hinesburg town manager Todd Odit. Those meetings were facilitated by the Williston Community Justice Center. “Over the last two days, we came together to build an understanding of the sequence of Friday’s event,” the letter reads. “We reached an agreement for many of Friday’s events and now recognize that misunderstandings in communications and authority impacted the response.” Hinesburg residents Alex and Taylor Goodchild, the parents of the child who picked up the weapon and initially gave it to a teacher, said during a recent selectboard meeting that the police department was “really open with us and responded quickly and appropriately,” and added that the school contacted them immediately. But, according to reporting from Seven Days, other parents of children among the group that found the handgun expressed frustration that the school never directly notified them of what had happened, aside from a district-wide letter sent on Dec. 3. “We were contacted immediate-
ly, and we’re very appreciative of that,” Taylor said. “I think that has a lot of families really concerned and worried feeling like they weren’t contacted because it didn’t — it wasn’t their child and they’re hearing that it was, and so from our perspective and what we’re feeling is we felt like we were supported in that, and that communication I think wasn’t clear with families.” Alex told town officials that he hoped the incident results in “a change in the order of any incident happening in a school zone.” “It needs to be reported to the administration at the school — whether it’s a car accident a burglary or a crime,” he said, “because in that case then they can have more time to prepare.” At around 10 a.m. on Dec. 1, a group of students outside of the school at recess discovered a handgun near the school’s playground. One of the children brought it to a teacher, school officials said, and school employees immediately alerted the school’s co-principals, who called the police.
The investigation remains underway, but police have previously suggested the gun and drugs were tied to an incident the previous night. Just before 11 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 30, police arrested Jermaine Rushing, 26, of Brooklyn, N.Y., for driving under the influence, excessive speed, negligent operation and leaving the scene of an accident. Rushing sped along Route 116, attracting the attention of patrolmen, and led them on a chase before crashing into a tree at intersection of Route 116 and Silver Street near the school. Rushing fled the scene. The school turned over the gun to the police. The two officers, Andrew Thomas and Nick Labonte, then canvassed the school’s grounds. But it wasn’t until later in the day, after the officers had left and returned to the department, that school district officials notified police they had found the drugs on school grounds as well. See COMMUNICATION on page 7
Joint letter: Strengthening our collaboration for a safer, more supported community This is the joint communication from Champlain Valley School District, Hinesburg Community School, town of Hinesburg and Hinesburg Police Department concerning the Dec. 1 incident at the Hinesburg Community School where children found a gun and drugs on school grounds. (Read it here: bit.ly/ JointStatementDec8) Dear Hinesburg Community, We are writing to you jointly, as representatives of Champlain Valley School District, Hinesburg Community School, the Hinesburg Police Department, and the Town of Hinesburg, to address the incident at Hinesburg Community School on Dec. 1. We understand there was great concern and worry about the incident involving the discovery of a firearm and illicit drugs on HCS property. As a result, we have met to address our parts in how this incident played out in the community. We are committed to addressing these issues and working towards a robust and effective partnership in the future.
Acknowledgment of Differing Communication Regarding Friday’s Event First and foremost, we wish to acknowledge the need for better communication and collaboration between our school district and the police department. We understand that this has caused concern among parents, staff, and community members, and we apologize for any distress or confusion this may have caused. Over the last two days, we came together to build an understanding of the sequence of Friday’s event. We reached an agreement for many of Friday’s events and now recognize that misunderstandings in communications and authority impacted the response.
Commitment to Open Communication Moving forward, we are dedicated to establishing open lines of communication. To facilitate See CVSD on page 7
Page 4 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
Towed in Vermont? Few protections compared to most states sanctioned in many other states. In 2023 already, more complaints have been filed than If your car is towed in Vermont, any of the last six years. One consumer in 2021 reported you’re on your own. Towing companies don’t being charged $700 for 47 minutes have to let you retrieve phones, of work by a company that charges prescriptions or anything else from $350 per hour for a minimum of your vehicle. They can charge any two hours. The company never rate to hold it, aren’t required to mentioned its rates online, and accept credit cards and don’t have the consumer said they got quotes to take a picture before towing. from other businesses at a third of what she was If your vehicle charged. gets damaged in If your car is towed In another storage, compacomplaint, from nies don’t have in Vermont, you’re on 2018, a man to reimburse you. reported his You are entitled your own. credit card was to no compencharged $300 sation if the tow for towing services in the morning, was illegal. Vermont is among the five but then the charge was refunded, states with the fewest protections and he was told he could not pay for owners of towed vehicles, with credit. Even though his card according to the Public Interest had just been charged, he was told Research Group, the federation to pay in certified funds — and the of consumer advocacy nonprofits bill had gone up to $460. Both instances depict a whose Vermont chapter wields complaint that addresses someconsiderable state influence. “There are almost no protec- thing Vermont doesn’t protect. tions in place in Vermont,” There is no law forcing towing Vermont Public Interest Research companies to publicly post their Group communications director rates, and towing companies aren’t required to accept credit as Zach Tomanelli said. And Vermonters are feeling a form of payment. Legislative efforts in the past it. Since 2017, people have filed 35 towing-related complaints to decade to regulate towing have the Vermont Attorney General’s been fruitless. Rep. Barbara Rachelson, Consumer Assistance Program, many involving situations that D-Burlington, has tried and failed aren’t illegal in Vermont but are to pass a towing regulation packAUBREY WEAVER COMMUNITY NEWS SERVICE
age in the Legislature for seven years. When asked about the holdup, Rachelson said, “The barriers are always the towing lobby.” The Vermont Towing Association, a collective representing 45 towing companies, employs Vincent Illuzzi, Essex County state’s attorney and a former state lawmaker of more than 30 years, as its lobbyist. Illuzzi directed requests for comments to the association’s president, Bob Montminy of Northeast Kingdom-based B&B Towing, who did not respond to multiple calls and voicemails.
“A lot of states have done a ‘Towing Bill of Rights,’ where they say you have to take photos of the situation before towing, it can’t be more than a certain rate and then there’s somebody that’s regulating it so that it can keep current with inflation,” Rachelson said. The last time one of her towing bills was granted a hearing in the House Transportation Committee was in March 2019. That included a plurality of perspectives both for and against the bill. Jack McCullough, the mayor
of Montpelier and director of Vermont Legal Aid’s Mental Health Law Project, said in his testimony that he had seen towing issues with “some frequency” in his work. McCullough described how he had seen cases where Legal Aid clients have their cars towed when they are picked up by the police to be brought to a psychiatric hospital. “The car could be towed many miles away from where the person winds up, and the person See TOWING on page 11
Shelburne Police Blotter: Dec. 4 – Dec. 10 Total reported incidents: 52 Traffic stops: 15 Warnings: 14 Tickets: 1 Medical emergencies: 17 Mental health incidents: 3 Suspicious incidents: 3 Agency assists: 3 Citizen assists: 3 Welfare check: 2 Motor vehicle complaints: 1 Automobile incidents: 2 Car crash: 4 Animal problem: 2 Theft: 2 Alarms: 6 False alarms: 4 Pending investigations: 3 Dec. 4 at 4:46 p.m., a two-car crash was reported with no
injuries on Pine Haven Shores and Shelburne roads. Dec. 5 at 3:14 a.m., police assisted a motorist who had slid off the roadway on Spear Street and Irish Hill Road. Dec. 6 at 3:21 a.m., Shelburne police issued 13 warnings for violations of the town’s winter parking ban. Dec. 6 at 10:57 a.m., a caller reported that a car had driven into the front of the post office building. The patient was transported to the hospital by Charlotte Rescue. (See related, page 1) Dec. 6 at 5:41 p.m., a two-car crash was reported with no injuries on Harrington Avenue
and Shelburne Road. Dec. 8 at 11:58 a.m., a two-car crash was reported on Spear Street and Irish Hill Road with no injuries. Dec. 9 at 6:13 p.m., a retail theft was reported at Kinney Drugs. Officers could not find the individual. Dec. 10 at 11:48 a.m., a caller reported a theft of items from their car on Oak Hill Road. The case is under investigation. Note: Charges filed by police are subject to review by the Chittenden County State’s Attorney Office and can be amended or dropped.
Shelburne News
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Christmas Eve at 4 PM & 7 PM Please join us for carols a half hour prior to Mass time!
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Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 5
OPINION
PRESENTED BY:
WITH SUPPORT FROM:
A Festive Community Market in City Hall Park Nov. 18-Dec. 23 Fridays: 2-6 pm Saturdays: 12-6 pm Sundays: 12-4 pm
SEE ROTATING WEEKLY VENDORS AT: BURLINGTONCIT YARTS.ORG
COURTESY PHOTO
Shelburne legislators Jessica Brumsted and Kate Lalley.
Shelburne’s two legislators gear up for session; housing, taxes on agenda From the House Rep. Jessica Brumsted & Rep. Kate Lalley Every year, the Vermont Commissioner of Taxes is required by statute to issue a letter forecasting education tax rates for the coming year. The tax letter is based on very preliminary revenue forecasts submitted by school districts across the state. While the Scott administration’s Dec. 1 letter warned property tax rate increases will be needed to cover education costs, taxpayers should be aware that school boards are only at the beginning of their budget deliberations. There is much to determine before voters consider approving budgets in March. Shelburne is part of the Chittenden South Supervisory Union District, and the school district board prepares the school budget. Approximately 75 cents of each tax dollar is sent to the state education fund. Factoring into school board budgets are costs due to inflation, the increased needs of students, staff salaries, health care, reductions in pandemic era federal funding and deferred school infrastructure improvements. In addition, it is estimated that in Vermont 45,000 units of additional housing are needed. Lack of housing and resulting homelessness are contributing factors for acute workforce shortages,
higher costs for essential services, costs for society, including better gaps in mental health supports public health outcomes, more and limited access to substance people working and paying taxes use disorder treatment. This and more Vermont children manifests in children in different prepared to thrive in our schools. ways; as hunger, As always, as learning we are very We are committed disabilities and as interested in complex mental hearing your to passing land use health challenges concerns, driving up the answering reforms to make it overall cost of questions and educating these easier, less costly and strategizing students. together on As your legisimportant work faster to build new lators we appreas we begin the ciate that unaf2024 legislative housing, especially fordability driven session in early by many factors, January. affordable types, in including high We are planhousing costs, ning to be at the transit accessible are concerning Pierson Library locations near jobs. for many living in Shelburne in Shelburne and again this year throughout Chittenden County. starting in January. Please watch So addressing the pressing need for dates and times in the Shelfor housing in Vermont is more burne News and on Front Porch important than ever. Forum very soon. Also, please With our Senate colleagues, remember you can reach out to us we are committed to passing land through email anytime at jbrumstuse reforms to make it easier, ed@leg.state.vt.us or klalley@leg. less costly and faster to build state.vt.us. new housing, especially affordWishing you, your family able types, in transit accessible and friends a very happy holiday locations near jobs. Increasing season! housing density in existing centers enables people to live Rep. Jessica Brumsted, a closer to their jobs in settings Democrat, represents voters in that afford more physical activity, St. George and Shelburne in the social connections and provides Chittenden 5-2 district. Rep. Kate for more affordable and efficient Lalley, who is also a Democrat, represents Shelburne in the Chitessential services. This can translate into reduced tenden-6 House district.
Page 6 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
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Letters to the Editor District, others offer statement on gun incident
StatementDec8. (The statement is also printed on page 3)
To the Editor: We are writing to you jointly, as representatives of Champlain Valley School District, Hinesburg Community School, Hinesburg Police Department and town of Hinesburg to address the incident that occurred at Hinesburg Community School on Dec. 1. We understand there was great concern and worry about the incident. As a result, we have met to address our parts in how this incident played out in the community. We acknowledge that each of our entities is committed to addressing these issues and working toward a robust and effective partnership in the future. To make our communications accessible to all, go to bit.ly/Joint-
Bonnie Birdsall Director, Digital Learning and Communication Champlain Valley School District
Boy Scout tree tradition goes back to 1969 To the Editor: I just had an opportunity to read the article about the Shelburne Boy Scouts selling Christmas trees in Shelburne. (“Holiday tree traditions live on at Shelburne Parade Ground,” Nov. 30, 2023) The article mentioned that this event dates to the 1970s. I can confirm that it goes back even farther than that. I moved to Shelburne in 1969
and joined Troop 602 shortly thereafter. I helped sell trees that December. We did it in the parking lot between the town hall and the village school on Route 7. I remember it being cold and snowy. The following year, 1970, sales moved to the Parade Ground. I believe that this event was created by the Scoutmaster at the time, John Brotz, and his assistant Scoutmaster, Jim MacDougall. Brotz was the farm manager at Southern Acres Farm, part of the Webb estate, and he kept the little green warming hut that we used for the tree sales up on farm. He and MacDougall were great Scout leaders and did some great work with Scouting back in the day. Ed Vizvarie Shelburne
‘O Christmas Tree – your beauty green will teach me’ In Musing Carole Vasta Folley
Prekindergarten Lottery is now open for 2024-2025!
I am filled with such melan-
choly this Christmas season, and Prekindergarten Lottery is now open for 2024-2025!
I know a tree will be just the The CVSD Early Education Program is now accepting applications for remedy. There’s something about a randomProgram prekindergarten lottery drawing applications for the 2024-25 for school SD Early Education is now accepting a random an evergreen standing inside my year.drawing This lottery is for opportunity to enroll in oneThis of our school-is for an opportunity rgarten lottery for thean2024-25 school year. lottery house that based classrooms which run 10 hours per week. Our school-based brings in one of ourprekindergarten school-based classrooms which run 10 hours per week. Oura schoolclassrooms are 5 STARs, licensed early education combination ekindergarten classrooms are 5play-based, STARs, developmentally licensed earlyappropriate education programs that programs that provide of hope and play-based, environments developmentally appropriate environments all children in an inclusive for all children in an inclusive setting. Ourfor curriculum tenderness. arten Lottery forLearning 2024-2025! is based onnow the Vermont Early Standards (VELS). A triangular Our curriculum is is based onopen the Vermont Early Learning Standards (VELS). conifer that relentlessOur programs follow the CVSD school calendar. Children who will Program is now accepting applications for a random rams follow the CVSD school calendar. Children who will be age 3 ly orpoints older by be age 3 school or older by September 1, 2024,iswho are not eligible for ng for the 2024-25 year. This lottery for an opportunity ber 1, 2024, kindergarten, who are notand eligible forcommunities kindergarten, and live in the communities of upward. live in of Charlotte, Hinesburg, -based classrooms whichSt. run 10thehours perWilliston week. Our schoolIts branche, Hinesburg, Shelburne, George, and are eligible to enter the lottery. George, and Williston are eligible to enter the lottery. Carole Vasta Folley rooms areselected 5Shelburne, STARs, St. licensed early education that es reach out who are choose toprograms enroll child Families for whothe are lottery selected and for the lottery and choose their to enroll theirin a CVSD program to me as if to mentally appropriate environments for all children anthe inclusive child in a CVSD program access their Act 166infor publicly funded heir Act 166 publicly funded prekindergarten funds school-based program. say, “peace sed on the Vermont Earlyfunds Learning prekindergarten for the Standards school-based (VELS). program. on earth” and “joy to the world.” These benedictions, cations must be received by February 5, 2024, and are located on the CVSD Early weirdly both All applications must who be received by February 5, 2024, and are SD school calendar. Children will be age 3 or older by hallowed and hackneyed, have n website at: https://tinyurl.com/CVSDEarlyEd or using this QR code. on the CVSD and Earlylive Education at: https://tinyurl. echoed in my bones since childnot eligible located for kindergarten, in thewebsite communities of pplications are available upon request. hood. I still want to believe. com/CVSDEarlyEd or using this QR code. urne, St. George, and Williston are eligible to enter the lottery. It must be a real tree. For me, r the lottery Paper and choose to are enroll theirupon child in a CVSD program available request. or any concerns no artificial one will do. I love ional information,applications questions about our program, funded prekindergarten funds for the school-based program. the asymmetry of it all. Its perfect ur child’s development, please visit our website or contact For additional information, questions about our program, Director or any imperfections. How each one is concerns aboutatyour child’s development, please visit ourEducation website unique and worthy, from RockeEducation, Erin Gagne egagne@cvsdvt.org. Our Early ived by February 5, 2024, and are located on the CVSD Early or contact Director of Early Education, Erin Gagne at egagne@ feller Center perfection to Charlie also available for developmental screenings in the areas of //tinyurl.com/CVSDEarlyEd or usingteam this isQR Brown trees that somehow still cvsdvt. Our Early Education alsocode. ication, social-emotional development, screenings motor skills, adaptive development, manage to purport themselves able upon request. available for developmental with dignity and significance. nition. More ininformation an Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports is also the areas about of communication, socialGetting the tree itself is a emotional development, motor skills, uestions about our program, or any Services concernstab. on the website under the Support ritual. Selecting the one you’ll adaptive and cognition. More ent, please visit our development, website or contact Director make your own, and later information about an Early Multi-Tiered pronounce as your favorite, brings ne at egagne@cvsdvt.org. Our Early Education System of Supports is also available on the to mind the poignancy of adopting velopmentalwebsite screenings in Support the areas of tab. under the Services a dog. You promise to take care of onal development, motor skills, adaptive development, them and love them even though
ion about an Early Multi-Tiered System of Supports is also
you know it’s not forever. Perhaps it’s this exact consciousness that makes us love and appreciate more. Whether it’s the Christmas tree or our loved ones, everything is finite. Sometimes I can forget that. The tree reminds me. The tree brings life to these short days of December. When adorned, it illuminates the night with a shimmer giving light to the darkness. And it’s a beautiful light, almost twinkling with assurance. Throughout the holiday, I’m known to stand in front of my tree, face to branch to pluck a dark green needle from the bough. I bend it in half to inhale the forest balsam. That woodsy, crisp, almost spicy aroma calms me, transporting me from far-afield worries to the present moment of evergreen. I am grateful for the reminder that being present is the present. I am grateful to the tree. Part of its offerings are the baubles that hang from each of its limbs. They are the same ones I’ve pulled out of storage year after year, decade after decade. Accumulated and curated ornaments that tell a story of my life. The tiny wooden letter “P” I painted the year of my daughter’s birth. It hangs on a red ribbon and when I hold it close, I feel that big, messy love I have for this baby who is now a woman. A delicate ceramic camel my husband gave to me when we first dated. It’s so fragile; every year I’m surprised it has survived. But so it has — and us too. A colorful hummingbird my sister gave to me
years ago when my large family of origin finally gave up buying for the multitudes and instead gifted ornaments. Tokens of love that dangle from string. It speaks to the often precarious belonging of family. I’m happy to report that the tree in my house is no longer surrounded by layers of presents upon presents. It took some doing to curtail my learned instinct to shop ’til I drop for Christmas. As if the letter “C” in this holiday stood for consumerism. Now, our family focuses on time together. Cooking, eating, singing, dancing and laughing. Mostly mining the joy of the moment. Truth be told, this particular holiday season won’t come again. Let us share it in fellowship. I’d surmise it’s what we all really need, much more than another sweater, candle or calendar. When the time comes for the tree to leave the house, it continues to give. Not just the job of picking up evergreen needles, a task that mysteriously can last throughout the year. The parting gift of the tree, if you’re like me, is that when it leaves, all of a sudden, my space feels larger. As if there’s more room in my life. I’m curious how I’ll fill this newfound space. It’s a great sentiment to contemplate as we head into the upcoming new year. Carole Vasta Folley is an award-winning columnist and playwright. Visit carolevf.com for more info.
Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 7
CVSD
continued from page 3 this, we identified and agreed to these five commitments: frequent and regular communication; the need to repair; shared policy and procedures; memorandum of understanding; and monthly school safety meetings. These commitments to one another ensure a path forward for the safety and security of schools and our community. Transparency and open dialogue are crucial, and we are committed to keeping you informed and involved in our decision-making processes.
1. Frequent and regular communication: Each of our organizations contributes to the safety and security of the Hinesburg community. We understand that effective communication — with you and between us as collaborators — helps build trust, which increases security. 2. Need to repair: Representatives from the school and police department were harmed by the media coverage, social media posts, and direct attacks on their reported actions. In addition, other members of the community, students,
COMMUNICATION continued from page 3
The school district released its narrative the outdoor classroom area that hadn’t been of events on Sunday, but by then, social searched, according to the police. media was rife with rumors. Cambridge asked him to bring the kids in The police department’s narrative immediately, and police returned to collect released that Monday then complicated the drugs. Cambridge told The Citizen last matters. According to police, Thomas and week that he had been surprised that kids Labonte, after returning to the department, were allowed outside after the gun had been told police Chief Anthony Cambridge that discovered. a school administrator wouldn’t let police In their statement, both parties said they search an outdoor classroom area because a are “dedicated to establishing open lines of class was in session. communication.” To facilitate this, the parties “Officer Labonte voiced concern that agreed to several commitments, including the kindergarten class was still outside “frequent and regular communication,” and after a loaded firearm was the creation of a shared found,” Cambridge wrote policy between the district “There’s not a lot in his timeline of the police and the town’s three public response. He said Labonte service agencies. of good that could asked the school administraThe Hinesburg police, tor, “Can we search where the statement reads, will come out of going the kids are?” but “she serve as a regular didn’t want to disturb or member of the Hinesback and saying who scare the kindergarteners.” burg Community School was right about this Whether that issue was Safety and Security resolved in the meetings is Committee and will attend thing or the other unclear. Cambridge did not regular safety and security return messages seeking meetings with the district. thing.” comment. The statement also “From my perspective, said that representatives there’s not a lot of good that — Todd Odit from the school and police could come out of going department “were harmed back and saying who was right about this by the media coverage, social media posts, thing or the other thing, that’s not going to and direct attacks on their reported actions” change what happened,” Odit said during and that “other members of the communia selectboard meeting. “What it can do is ty, students, caregivers, teachers, and others impact future actions and future situations. were also impacted.” That’s really our goal.” “For the community to believe we deserve Police returned to the school later that their trust, we need to build trust among one morning after Tim Trevithick, one of the another,” the statement reads. “To do that, co-principals at the school, told police that we will demonstrate integrity, humility, and several small bags of drugs were found in honesty towards each other.”
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caregivers, teachers, and others were also impacted. For the community to believe we deserve their trust, we need to build trust among one another. To do that, we will demonstrate integrity, humility, and honesty towards each other. 3. Shared Policy and Procedure: As mentioned earlier, responsibilities overlap across all four organizations regarding the safety and security of the Hinesburg community. Creating a common policy and procedure will go beyond just emergency operations to include a description of regular interactions, communication protocols, and shared responsibilities. 4. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): This is the written documentation of the shared policy and procedure. 5. Monthly School Safety Meeting: All schools in the Champlain Valley School District hold regular safety and security meetings. The Hinesburg Police Department will serve as a regular member of
the HCS Safety and Security Committee. At these meetings, any items from the shared policy and procedure MOU can be reviewed to ensure the continued collaboration between HCS and HPD. Act 29 requires all schools in Vermont to review and rewrite their Emergency Operations Plan after it goes into effect in July 2024. The Town and the Police Department are essential partners in this endeavor. In closing, we thank the Williston Community Justice Center for its role in helping each party further understand the other so we can reach this point. We have learned from this experience and look forward to working alongside each of you to cultivate trust and shape an even more promising future for our community. Todd Odit Hinesburg Town Manager Rene Sanchez CVSD Superintendent
Thank You Shelburne! The Shelburne Food Shelf would like to thank Shelburne residents and businesses for their generous financial contributions and food donations during 2023, with special appreciation to Shelburne Market for sponsoring the “round-up” program and to those who participate. Thank you to these Businesses and Organizations for their generosity to the Shelburne Food Shelf Adventures in Early Learning All Souls Interfaith Gathering Bimbo Bakeries USA Boy Scout Troop 602 Brett and Cappy Lewis/Brett Lewis Promotions Champlain Valley Lions Club Coffee Enterprises Coldwell Banker Hickok Boardman Cub Scout Pack 607 David Webster and A.M. Peisch & Company LLP Educational and Institutional Insurance Administrators, Inc. Frog Song Farm Growald Climate Fund HANDS - Helping And Nurturing Diverse Seniors Harbour Industries LLC Head Over Fields Farm Klingers Kwiniaska Golf Club Lake Champlain Chocolates Misty Knolls Farm Pet Food Warehouse
SHELBURNE
FOOD SHELF
Perrigo Nutritionals Portico Apartments Rice Lumber Rotary Club of Charlotte, Shelburne, Hinesburg SCAT & Landowners of VAST network Shelburne Athletic Club Shelburne Community School Shelburne Nursery School Shelburne Farms Shelburne Market Shelburne United Methodist Church St. Catherine of Siena Sweeney DesignBuild TD Bank Shelburne The Terraces Town Fair Tire Foundations Inc. US Postal Service Vermont Commons School Vermont Diaper Bank Vermont Day School Vermont Food Bank Vermont Gas Vermont Zen Center Wake Robin
With special appreciation to the Town of Shelburne and to all our volunteers who support us every day! Thank you all for making Shelburne a wonderful place to live. Donations to the Food Shelf are tax deductible. https://www.shelburnefoodshelf.org/
Page 8 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
COMMUNITY Community Notes Learn about restoration of East Monitor Barn
Santa is ready to roll through Hinesburg, fire station
The Chittenden County Historical Society presents “Working & Learning with the Land: Vermont Youth Conservation Corps and the East Monitor Barn” on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2 p.m. in the Pickering Room, Fletcher Free Library, 235 College St., Burlington. Join Breck Knauft, executive director of the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, and Eliot Lothrop, principal at Building Heritage for a talk on the history of this organization, as well as an in depth look at the restoration of the East Monitor Barn. Since its founding in 1985, the Corps has enrolled over 6,500 youth and young adults in paid service experiences that focus on outdoor projects that benefit all Vermonters. They’ll also give us an inside look at the current restoration of the East Monitor Barn in Richmond. Earlier this year, Building Heritage, in partnership with Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, began restoring this historic structure that was built in 1901. Lothrop and Knauft will offer a slide show of Corps over the years, as well as restoration progress. The talk is free, and refreshments will be served. More at cchsvt.org.
Santa is gearing up for his annual ride around Hinesburg and visit to the fire station. Santa’s ride will be Saturday, Dec. 16, and he will be at the Hinesburg Fire Department on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Snacks and beverages will be served and bring your cameras to take photos. Here’s Santa’s route: 4:10-4:30: King George Estates, St. George Town Hall and St. George trailer park 4:30-4:40: Rocky Ridge Circle 4:40-4:50: St George Estates 5-5:15: Creekside 5:20-5:30: Green Street 5:35-5:45: Upper lot of Hinesburg Community School 5:45-6: Lyman Meadows 6-6:15: Thistle Hill 6:15-6:30: Champlain Valley Union main parking lot 6:30-6:45: Jourdan Street (Sunset Trailer Park) 6:45-7: Birchwood Drive 7-7:15: Hillview Terrace
(Hillview Trailer Park) 7:15-7:30: Mountain View Trailer Park Remember to follow Santa’s progress on the Hinesburg Fire Department Facebook page.
Fire, rescue, police departments and others hold toy drive On Thursday, Dec. 21, new unwrapped toys and gift cards will be delivered to the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital thanks to various law enforcement agencies and other institutions around the state of Vermont. Operation Fire Cuffs is a joint effort to collect “new” toys and gift cards for the children at the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital located at University of Vermont Medical Center. This is its 13th consecutive year and to make this a success, please donate toys and gift cards at one of the following locations: • South Burlington Fire Department • Vermont State Police barracks in St. Albans and Williston • Burlington Fire Department • Burlington Police Department • Chittenden County Children’s Advocacy Center
• Burlington Electric Department • Colchester Police, Fire and Rescue Department • University of Vermont Police Department • University of Vermont Rescue Services • Department of Corrections Chittenden County • U.S. Marshals Service • Essex Fire Department • Swanton police and fire • Winooski Police and Fire Departments • Essex Junction Fire Department • Milton Police and Fire Department • Morristown Police Department • Cambridge Rescue • Cambridge Fire Department • Cambridge Elementary School • Fairfax Fire Department • Underhill/Jericho Fire Department • Vermont Department of Liquor Control • Vermont State Police dispatchers • Essex Fire Department • Swanton police and fire Other locations include Shaw’s Supermarket, 802 CrossFit, Salon Elixir & Boutique, A1 Flooring, Global Foundries, and PuroClean.
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Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 9
New art space now open at Harbor Place a colorful mural painted by sisters Charlotte and Sylvie Dworshak in just one day. “It’s delightful that it all came together As the holiday season moves in full during the holiday season,” Moore said. “It’s swing, the Shelburne Craft School has a very bright and happy space. It’s a super opened a new permanent art space for fami- uplifting feeling in that room.” As of Monday, Chris Donnelly, director lies currently residing at Harbor Place in an effort to spread the joy of art to all those who of community relations at Champlain Houscall Shelburne home, even those who might ing Trust, confirmed that there were five families currently living be there temporarily. at Harbor Place. Data on Harbor Place, which “It’s delightful that how many families have operates from the former been in and out of Harbor Days Inn on Shelburne it all came together Place this holiday season Road, is a transitional is hard to quantify, he said, housing facility run by during the holiday since the numbers fluctuChamplain Housing Trust ate nearly every day. He for homeless individuals season. It’s a very said there can be upwards and families as part of the of 20 children at Harbor state’s emergency hotel bright and happy Place at any given time. housing voucher program. space. It’s a super Donnelly said that Since February Heather by the end of November, Moore, executive direcuplifting feeling in there were 907 people in tor of the Shelburne Craft Chittenden County that School, has been visiting that room.” agencies were working her neighbors at Harbor with to find housing, with Place monthly to bring art classes to children of — Heather Moore 83 of them being children. This art room, Moore all ages. Moore said that during her hour-long sessions, she sees said, is just one way to make the transitional groups of preteens, some elementary-aged space feel more like a home. “Now that we have a space, we can do students and infants and toddlers. Although her programming is geared toward children, these projects and easily get messy,” she it also offers a way for adults to socialize and said. “There will always be art supplies get to know one another in a way that they there. I firmly believe that everyone, especially children, should have access to the might have not had before. While crafts vary each month, this week arts. Now that space allows for it no matter is focused on ornament-making since Shel- what time of day it is.” During the grand opening of the new burne’s Boy Scout troop donated a Christmas tree to help create an environment full art room, Moore brought in cakes from Le Marché, a French bakery located just down of yuletide cheer. “That space just smells so good with that the road, to celebrate a new chapter for the Christmas tree and then we’re making a vari- partnership between the craft school and ety of different types of ornaments to deco- housing trust. “It’s just such a happy feeling to have rate it,” Moore said. She said the dream to create a permanent everybody be welcomed into that space for space came together more quickly than she the first time and to be eating big slices of envisioned. The project was supported by the fudgy cake,” she said. “I get that warm heart Heart Show and the Hoehl Foundation with feeling whenever I think of it.” LIBERTY DARR STAFF WRITER
COURTESY PHOTO
The new Shelburne Craft School art space at Harbor Place in Shelburne.
Shelburne Parks & Rec News Crossfit kids Kids can join us right after school to improve general conditioning including a focus on core, strength, agility, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. Based on the principle of movement mechanics, consistency, form and then intensity, this program pushes for quality movement throughout childhood. Consistent mechanics translates to higher sports performance and fewer sports injuries for kids. Research also indicates that exercise is beneficial to cognitive function, which means a consistent training program will have a positive impact on a child’s academic achievement. Participants of any fitness ability are welcome to join as workouts are adjusted to the individual fitness level in a non-competitive environment. Sign up for one or both sessions. Session A dates: Jan. 4 to Jan. 25; registration deadline Friday, Dec. 29. Session B dates: Feb. 1 to Feb. 22; registration deadline Friday, Jan. 26.
Sessions are held on Thursdays, 3:154:15 p.m. Fee is $80 per session, for grades five to eight, led by Nick Mead and Shelburne Field House staff.
Hullcrest playground forum Stop by at the Shelburne Town Municipal Center activity room any time between 3-6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 18 to see the results of the recent Hullcrest Playground survey. See photo examples of different types of equipment, materials, color schemes and themes in response to the survey results. Feedback will help us narrow down specific details for the eventual design and installation. Where: Shelburne Town Municipal Center Activity Room- Ground floor next to Recreation Office See the complete listing of programs and special events at shelburnevt.org/160/ parks-recreation.
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Page 10 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
Nonprofit celebrates purchase of Clemmons Farm loved sharing the farm with their community. They’re very proud of their cultural heritage and loved people to love it … and share Lydia Clemmons has “magical” memo- African American history and culture.” The farm includes prime agricultural ries growing up on her family’s working farm in Charlotte. One thing that stands out land, forest and wetlands with six historical from her childhood, she said, is her father buildings, according to the website, and is repeating “like a mantra” that the farm was an official landmark on Vermont’s African American Heritage Trail. going to be a foundation one day. The farm is particularly important in “We didn’t know what foundation meant. We didn’t know what he was talking the context of African American histoabout,” she said Now she thinks he was ry and the Clemmons couple’s personal story, including their ownership of the land clairvoyant. Earlier this year, a nonprofit that Clem- and pioneering roles at UVM, said Ebonie mons oversees purchased the African Amer- Alexander, a founding member of its board ican-owned Clemmons Family Farm, which of directors and executive director of the is known for nurturing and celebrating Black Family Land Trust based in North Carolina. The organization is one of the Black culture and community in the state. The nonprofit, which shares the farm’s nation’s only conservation land trusts dediname, bought the 138-acre property for cated to the preservation and protection of $2.5 million in April, according to Clem- African American and other historically mons and property records. The organi- underserved landowners’ assets, according zation announced earlier this week that it to Alexander. “It is so important to preserve the herihad completed an 18-month fundraising tage that’s there,” she campaign to fully pay for said, noting there are “so the purchase. The final The nonprofit, which few” farms in the state piece of funding — the sale owned by people who of a conservation easement shares the farm’s are Black, Indigenous or to the Vermont Land Trust people of color. and Vermont Housing and name, bought the Plus, she said, “It is Conservation Board — not a farm that has had was completed in October, 138-acre property for a lot of attention from according to Clemmons. the land grant institution The sale will allow the $2.5 million in April. or from the land trust farm to “secure both its history and its future,” it said in a press community. And it’s in an area that is develrelease, including as an example of an Afri- oping quickly.” Land and federal assistance has historcan American-owned farm in a country where systemic barriers have limited such ically been denied to African Americans in the U.S. and the gap between white operations. Leslie Wells, who grew up in Charlotte and Black farm ownership remains stark. and serves on the nonprofit’s board, said According to 2017 data from the U.S. that’s a big achievement at a time when Department of Agriculture, African Amerithere is a national movement working to can-owned farms make up less than a half dismantle race-based education programs percent of all farms in the United States. And African Americans own less than 2 million and funding. “Our supporters recognized the way in acres of land across the country, down from which the Clemmons Family Farm had a 15-19 million acres in the 1920s, according positive impact on the lives of all Vermont- to Alexander. In Vermont, only 17 farms and fewer ers by celebrating differences and commonthan 4,000 acres of the 1.2 million acres of alities through art,” she said. This year also marked another mile- farmland are owned or operated by Afristone: the 100th birthdays of Clemmons’ can Americans, according to data from the parents and the farm’s founders, who were USDA. Citing these statistics, the Clemmons among the first African Americans on the University of Vermont’s medical school Family Farm nonprofit called the purchase “an inspiring national model for the presfaculty. Jackson and Lydia Clemmons (both ervation of Black-held land and places that mother and daughter share the same name) hold cultural and historic significance.” It was a quiet campaign — involving were a doctor and a nurse who moved to Vermont from Cleveland, Ohio, accord- phone calls and word of mouth — at a time ing to the younger Clemmons. The couple when the Covid-19 pandemic had strained purchased the farm in 1962 and maintained funders, Clemmons said. The Vermont Community Foundation it as a working farm with space to share African American history, culture and arts contributed more than $600,000 and the Trust for Public Land gave a $100,000 for 61 years. Clemmons, who has lived and worked grant. Some of the funding came from the sale in public health in 25 countries in Africa, said she returned to Vermont about 10 years of the conservation easement, which will ago because the family was worried about permanently protect farmland and wetlands the future of the farm they had built and on the property. The American Farmland Trust also contributed funding, and the nurtured. She helped create the nonprofit Clem- nonprofit received a zero-interest two-year mons Family Farm, Inc. in 2019, and serves loan from Foodshed Capital, a nonprofit as its president and executive director, loan fund based in Virginia. The remainder of the funding came from working alongside a diverse board. “Growing up, my parents really put a big Vermont grants and private donations, the emphasis on community,” she said. “They release stated. AUDITI GUHA VTDIGGER
PHOTO BY NANI CLEMMONS
The 1700s-era Big Barn on the Clemmons farm.
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Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 11
TOWING
continued from page 4 could be in the hospital for days, weeks or sometimes months with no real ability to get the car back,” McCullough said. Before urging for greater regulation, he added, “It doesn’t take long for the towing charges to exceed the value of the car for an impoverished person.” Critics of that 2019 towing bill highlighted the anticipated material losses of implementing a $40 towing fee cap like the bill, H.201, proposed. Michael Kollman, then-president of the Vermont Tower’s Association, testified against the bill, citing expenses towing companies would incur. “You’re asking a tow truck company to send $200,000 to $300,000 worth of equipment and three to five men to do a call for $40. None of that adds up,” he said. Kollman, the owner of Hillside Auto in Springfield, said that his personal cost per call in Springfield is over $80 per call. “That’s what it costs me to run a regular call,” he said.
To Kollman, $40 just doesn’t cut it. “We have trained men. We have huge expenses and insurance costs.” Vermont State Police Lt. Tom Mozzer also testified against the bill, advocating for a law enforcement exemption for the proposed $40 towing fee cap. “Ninety percent of law enforcement tows are without the consent of the owner,” Mozzer said, adding that “a $40 towing fee falls short of compensation in almost every case.” Asked recently about compensation concerns, Rachelson clarified: “I get they should be paid, but they should not get to set whatever rates … Some states have done better jobs than Vermont has done.” A transportation omnibus bill passed last session and signed into law reformed one aspect of towing in the state by placing a $125 fee cap on involuntary towing of abandoned vehicles. The bill was originally written with a proposed $40 cap but was revised before passage on the
recommendation of towing operators like Montminy, who submitted notes requesting higher caps to the committee. As part of that act, the attorney general’s office was directed to put together a report on towing practices in Vermont to present to the Legislature by the start of the upcoming legislative session. Tomanelli, from Vermont Public Interest Research Group, said the organization had submitted suggestions to the attorney general’s office this fall. Rachelson plans to continue her fight to pass regulations on towing and remains hopeful things will be different next session. “I’ve gotten incredible survey data on people who, like, you can’t believe the stories — they’re pretty awful, and they’re pretty regular,” the representative said.
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Page 12 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
SPORTS CVU starts winter sports season well-positioned LAUREN READ CORRESPONDENT
Boys’ basketball Coach: Michael Osborne Last season: Division I state champions This season: 1-0 Key returnees: Tucker Tharpe, senior, forward; Kyle Eaton, senior, guard; Ollie Cheer, senior, guard/forward; Russell Willoughby, senior, forward; Colby Morehouse, senior, guard/forward; Nik Blasius, senior, forward; and Jack St. Peter, senior, guard. Key newcomer: Jacob Armstrong, junior, guard; Luke Allen, junior, guard/forward; Jackson DuBois, junior, forward; Billy Bates, junior, guard; Chase Leonard, junior, guard; Riley O’Brien, junior, forward; Adrian Paliling, first year, guard; and Luke Everitt, first year, forward. Outlook: The boys captured the program’s first-ever state title last season. This year, the Redhawks return seven seniors from that title-winning team and add a strong core to its roster. The
team started its title defense off well, beating Mount Anthony to open the regular season. “We feel like we have tremendous leadership with a seven-man senior class and a very strong inside-out duo to lead the way in Tharpe and Eaton,” coach Osborne said. “We believe we have excellent depth and will have the ability to improve daily with very competitive practices.” Up next: Saturday, Dec. 16, at Rutland, 5 p.m. PHOTO BY AL FREY
Boys’ ice hockey
A CVU hockey player protects the goal during a recent practice.
Coach: JP Benoit Last season: 7-10-3, lost in the D-I quarterfinals Key returnees: Alex Zuchowski, senior, defense; Travis Stroh, senior, forward; Nic Menard, senior, forward; Connor Malaney, senior, forward; Calvin Malaney, senior, defense; Trevin Keefe, senior, forward; Jacob Whitcomb, senior, defense; and Ted Connery, junior, defense.
Basketballers start season with wins
See WINTER PREVIEW on page 13
LAUREN READ CORRESPONDENT
Boys’ basketball Champlain Valley 71, Mount Anthony 25: The defending champion Champlain Valley boys’ basketball team opened its season with a convincing win over Mount Anthony on Saturday, Dec. 9, in the North-South Classic in Rutland.
Tucker Tharpe led the way with 16 points for the Redhawks (1-0). Kyle Eaton added 13 points and Luke Everitt chipped in 10. Jack St. Peter scored eight points, one of 11 CVU players to score.
Girls’ basketball Champlain Valley 71, Mount Anthony 23: Samara Ashooh nearly had a double-dou-
ble as the Champlain Valley girls’ basketball team opened its season with a win over Mount Anthony on Saturday in the North-South Classic in Rutland. Ashooh had 15 points and eight rebounds for CVU, who are the defending Division I champs. Nine Zimakas added 13 points and nabbed three steals, while Zoey McNabb had nine points. With the win, Redhawks moved to 1-0.
Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 13
WINTER PREVIEW continued from page 12
Key newcomer: Zavier Barnes, first year, forward; Teigen Holmes, first year, defense; and Jesse McCray, first year, goalie. Outlook: The team will look to take a step forward this season, with a strong roster of returning players from last season’s D-I quarterfinalist group. With four seniors anchoring the offense and three seniors shoring up the back end, the Redhawks will have time to work in new players, including a first-year goaltender in Jesse McCray. CVU coach JP Benoit pointed to depth and good team buy-in as key to the team this season, especially in early games. The boys will certainly be tested early as the Colchester Beech Tournament
marks the start of their schedule. Opener: Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the Colchester Beech Tournament.
Girls’ basketball Coach: Ute Otley Last season: D-I state champions This season: 1-0 Key returnees: Elise Berger, senior, guard; Merrill Jacobs, senior, guard; Samara Ashooh, senior, forward; Nevaeh Parrish, senior, guard; Grace Thompson, senior, forward; Nina Zimakas, senior, guard; Lauren Vaughan, junior, forward; Kaitlyn Jovell, junior, guard; and Zoey McNabb, sophomore, guard.
Key newcomer: Alexandria Montgomery, junior, forward; Rose Bunting, junior, forward; and Aliza Flore, junior, guard/ forward. Outlook: The girls team looks to begin another state championship run this season. The Redhawks will do so with a roster full of experienced players and a few new ones. They kicked off the season with a win and will look to improve steadily as the season continues. “We’ll be able to defend the rim and use our size to make it difficult for our opponent to score,” coach Otley said. Up next: Thursday, Dec. 16, at Rutland, 7 p.m.
Obituary Anne Brown There will be a celebration of life for Anne Brown on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023, at 2 p.m., at the Charlotte Congregational church, 403 Church Hill Road, Charlotte.
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continued from page 1 Postal patrons inside at the time said the initial impact felt like an explosion, and had they been just a few feet closer to the door the incident could’ve been much worse. “All of a sudden there’s this big loud boom. We really thought it was a bomb. It buckled the whole ceiling,” Sean Moran of Shelburne said, noting that the air was filled with dust and debris falling from the ceiling. Nearby was resident Dorothea Penar, who was just making her way out of the building when she bumped into her son’s former piano teacher. “I stepped back into the building as she was coming in just to catch up and tell her what the boys were doing and find out what she was up to,” she said, adding that as she was standing there she noticed Sean making his way in. “I said something to Sean, and he said something to
me, we always poke at each other for fun. He started walking away and boom!” Other than just making for an interesting topic of conversation at the dinner table, Penar, a devout Catholic, said the incident left her sending up an extra prayer to her guardian angels for
being at work that day. Moran, on the other hand, joked that his zealous involvement in the town’s municipal mayhem over the years must have caused someone to seek revenge in an unusual way. “I think someone put a hit out for me,” he laughed.
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Felipe Toro, LAc
Empowering people to achieve their best health and wellbeing
Brian Bittner • 802-489-5210 • info@bittnerantiques.com Showroom at 2997 Shelburne Rd • Shelburne Open Wed-Fri, with walk-ins to sell every Thursday. www.bittnerantiques.com
Page 14 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
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to advertise call 985-3091 or email advertising@shelburnenews.com
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shelburne news
service directory
Construction
Collectibles
R ELIC
Buying Sports and Collectible Cards
Hyper Relic Sports Cards Bob & Jessica Trautwine
Cell/Txt: 802-233-1451 • Office: 802-497-1681 Hyperreliccards@gmail.com • hyperrelic.com
1111-855-DRY-TIME • www.northernbasements.com
Insurance
Knife Sharpening
Flooring
FLOORING
The Holidays Are Coming
THE SHARPER BLADE
Flooring Inventory IN STOCK
HARDWOOD • LUXURY VINYL LAMINATES • CARPET • CARPET TILE TILE • FLOORING SUPPLIES
• Basement Waterproofing • Crawl Space Repair • Sump Pump Systems • Foundation Repair • Egress Windows
Covering Your Life’s Journey Home • Auto • Motorcycle • Watercraft Business • Contractor
96 Commerce Street | Williston | www.floortraderwilliston.com | (802) 204-1080
802-862-1600 • info@turnbaughinsurance.com 188 Allen Brook Lane • Suite 1 • Williston, VT 05495
Landscape / Lawncare
Metal
802-864-0326 800-540-4692 35 Intervale Rd, Burlington
www.qcsteel.com
For more information contact Bill Lowell (802) 363-2447 • TheSharperBlade109@gmail.com
Painting
Full Line Steel Service Center
Serving all your metal needs for over two generations
Kitchen Knives Sharpened
Fast Turnaround • Convenient Shelburne Drop Box at Village Wine and Coffee
Huge inventory of steel, aluminum and stainless in many shapes and sizes from sheets to tubing to angle iron Cutting, Punching, Drilling and Bending Services We’ll even recycle your ferrous and non-ferrous metal Delivery available
TONY BRICE PAINTING, LLC Free Estimates Interior & Exterior
802.777.8771
Scheduling 2023-2024 Interior Painting
TO ALL OF OUR CLIENTS, THANK YOU!
Sheds
Septic
Water
Town & Country Sheds, LLC
— Since 1959 —
— Since 1959 —
Septic Tank Pumping Line Jetting & Thawing Camera Inspection Hydro-Vac Services Catch Basin Cleaning Lift Station Maintenance
Water Wells Complete Geothermal Systems Water Treatment Pump Sales & Service Aggregate- Gravel & Stone Products Pond Aeration
24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE
24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE
120 NORTHGATE PLAZA, SUITE 2 MORRISVILLE 802.888.5722 | MANOSH.COM
120 NORTHGATE PLAZA, SUITE 2 MORRISVILLE 802.888.5722 | MANOSH.COM
N Wolcott Rd ews & The2175 Citizen
Wolcott, VT 05680 888-7012 8.00/week(802) for both papers $432.00 FOR RENT 60 FOOT LIFT JLG600S
CALL US TODAY!
Siding/Remodeling
BEAGLE BUILDERS, LLC Remodeling & Additions
ALL TYPES OF SIDING Vinyl/Wood/Composite
Windows & Doors • Decks & Porches
Kitchens & Bathrooms Sunrooms & Garages
Monkton, VT
beaglebuilders@gmavt.net
802-453-4340 CALL US! 802-355-0807
Shelburne News • December 14, 2023 • Page 15
Horoscope December 14, 2023
ANSWERS FROM THIS ISSUE
Weekly Puzzles
Page 16 • December 14, 2023 • Shelburne News
Visit Our Christmas Sale Section Save up to 50% Shop local
It matters
11 Falls Road • Shelburne, VT • 802-489-5571 • willowhousevt.com
GIFT CARDS! GIFT CARDS! Farmhouse Group gift cards are a most perfect holiday gift.
Order online at FarmhouseTG.com Gift cards valid at The Farmhouse Tap & Grill, Guild Tavern, Pascolo Ristorante, and El Cortijo Taqueria.
The Residence at Otter Creek, The Residence at Quarry Hill, and The Residence at Shelburne Bay wish you and your family a joyous holiday and happy new year!
Middlebury | 802-278-0229
S. Burlington | 802-992-8153
LCB Senior Living Communities: More than 25 Years of Excellence
Shelburne | 802-231-3724