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Thursday, May 14, 2020 | Volume LXII Number 22

Charlotte News Charlotte News Your nonprofit community news source since 1958

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Charlotte NewsCharlotte News TheThe

CharlotteNewsVT.org

Vermont’s oldest nonprofit community newspaper, bringing you local news and views since 1958

This cedar apple rust gall on a small cedar tree is reminiscent of another spiky sphere that’s all around us. “It reminded me of the coronavirus image that we see everywhere,” photographer John Quinney said.

Nature imitates nature

Chea Waters Evans

Last week, on his public Facebook page, Charlotte Crossings co-owner Mike Dunbar posted that he thought the town of Charlotte was delaying a Planning Commission hearing to discuss changing Land Use Regulations because the town didn’t want the regulations to change. He also posted a letter that his lawyer sent to the town alleging the same. The Planning Commission said the reasons for the delay are coronavirus-related and that the hearing will take place when it is safe to do so.

In April of 2018, the owners of the Route 7 property, Charlotte Crossings, which operates under Gemini Properties, LLC, were approved for a site plan for the property. The building has retail, office, and restaurant space. The current Land Use Regulations, which were adopted by the town in 2016, state that the regulations are “intended to ensure that site layout is safe, functional, and of a scale that is compatible with its setting and context, and consistent with these regulations.”

Since then, Dunbar, along with co-owner Debra Kassabian, have made changes to the original site plan that include increasing the square footage of the restaurant part of the building and adding parking spots. The Planning Commission decided that these changes required a new site plan; rather than going that route, Dunbar and Kassabian decided to petition to change the regulations.

Dunbar and Kassabian submitted a petition to the town clerk in mid-February requesting a hearing to change Charlotte’s Land Use

Regulations pertaining to parking lot locations. The Planning Commission does not support this change. According to the Planning Commission Reporting Form posted on the town website, they think reducing the current standard “does not set a good precedent because any future application within the Town promoting front-yard parking design will compromise the Town’s long standing intent to maintain aesthetic character of the area, and alter it into a strip-mall style of development.” The form also mentions that part of the Town Plan is to preserve vistas and maintain Route 7 as a scenic travel corridor.

During its May 7 meeting, the Planning Commission decided that LUR hearings are too important an issue to take place via Zoom teleconferencing and that Vermont open meeting laws require the commission to make the hearings available to as many Charlotters as possible.

In a Facebook post earlier this week, Dunbar alleged, “It is clear they are using COVID-19 to delay our work simply because they do not agree with it. Ever heard of the saying ‘never let a good crisis go to waste’?” He shared a letter his lawyer, Kevin Brennan of Brennan Punderson & Donahue, sent to Planning Commission Chair Peter Joslin stating that Dunbar was “shocked and disturbed” that the hearing was delayed and called the commission’s rationale for that decision “arbitrary, random, and unjustified.” The letter also claims that since other matters have moved forward with the Planning Commission, Dunbar is being treated unfairly.

In a letter to The Charlotte News printed earlier this year, Joslin noted that there are approximately 80 potential amendments to the LURs and that the Planning Commission is in the process of reviewing them all and putting them on the ballot for the November 2020 general election. “These proposed amendments, by law, require two hearings by the Planning Commission and two by the Selectboard prior to putting them before the town for a vote.” He noted in an email to The Charlotte News earlier this week that, along with Dunbar’s request, the commission is also considering LUR amendments relating to East Charlotte Village and Act 143.

“We have taken guidance from the state, town counsel, and the Vermont League of Cities and Towns, which, under current circumstances, does not recommend holding hearings for amendments to Town Plans or Zoning bylaws at this time,” Joslin said.Maura Carroll, executive director of the VLCT, said the issue is complicated. “So many things have come up in the course of these last couple months that people say, ‘You’d think this would be a simple question,’ but then some complexity just pops right into it.” The VLCT states on its website, “We do not recommend holding a public hearing during the public health emergency amid the stay-at-home order’s restrictions on public gatherings. Instead, we recommend that the legislative body, at a duly warned meeting, extend the hearing deadlines by a certain amount of time.”

Dunbar said that a lack of clear communication

from the Planning Commission has left him frustrated. “We routinely have to request information about the status of our requests and process,” he said in an email. “Open communication from the town would help guide and keep all parties informed. There is an impact on having to wait on several fronts, which could be avoided. More upfront guidance on the process and increased coordination between the various town boards…could alleviate this.”

The hearing delay is causing issues for his business, Dunbar said, “And, I want to ensure that the citizens of Charlotte understand that while there’s a process in Charlotte, it’s often mired in bureaucracy.” He also said he hopes the issue can be addressed quickly without further legal action. “I am hopeful that it won’t come to that. I am a reasonable person. I hope they are too. We’re all just trying to do our best here. But, their delay is holding up me doing business, and that’s not good for me, or for the town.”

Joslin said in an email that the commission has to weigh public safety alongside the needs of local businesses. “The Planning Commission regrets delays that the pandemic has caused but it is our responsibility to ensure that the public can participate and be heard in public hearings, and it is our responsibility to find effective ways to comply with state statutory requirements under current circumstances.”

The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled on Zoom for May 21. The link to attend the meeting is available on the Town of Charlotte web site.

Allegations of purposeful delay aimed at Planning Commission

THANK YOUFrom all of us at The Charlotte News, a big thank you to our advertisers and donors. We greatly appreciate your continued support for our work in bringing you the news about Charlotte and Charlotters—as we have now for 62 years, and counting. We couldn’t do this without you.

Chea Waters Evans

It was a long one on Monday, May 11, even as the Selectboard postponed several agenda items due to time concerns. At one point, Selectboard Chair Matt Krasnow asked who had the next item on the agenda and a patient Zoom meeting participant chimed in with, “Your dad! Otherwise known as Eddie.” Ed Krasnow, along with other understanding Charlotters, was willing to wait until the next meeting to raise his question before the Selectboard. Expenditure concerns, Ferry Road traffic, and the uncertain future of Recreation Department programs managed to make the cut Monday night.

Ferry Road

Public comment happened to roll into an agenda item: a Ferry Road safety audit. Dale

Knowles, who lives on Ferry Road, said he’s noticed in the past few weeks that because of the coronavirus-related Stay Home, Stay Safe order, more children and families have been riding bikes and walking in that area. He requested that signs be placed in the area reminding motorists to slow down. Megan Price, a frequent advocate at municipal meetings for slowing traffic on Ferry Road, also mentioned the need to slow traffic in the area.

Though the results of the audit will not give VTrans the authority to change the speed limit, Chair Matt Krasnow said, they could always recommend other safety measures. Town Administrator Dean Bloch is going to schedule the visit for either July 23 or 28.

Austerity for some is too much for others: Selectboard continues budget juggling, Rec stays on hold, and more

see SELECTBOARD page 3

The Charlotte News • May 14, 2020 • 3

Secretary Anson Tebbetts

There is no hiding from COVID-19. This virus has no borders and travels at will, menacing people and businesses in every sector of society. The pandemic threatens agriculture and with it our food security, as farmers work to produce the food on our tables. Our farmers, producers and those making their living off the land are working relentlessly for all of us, and we thank them for their leadership and sacrifice.

We have witnessed creativity at our farmers markets. The markets are providing fresh food in a new format. We have hit pause on the social events, but these markets have transformed into simple food hubs, providing a tremendous service to shoppers while implementing safe practices. We thank Vermonters who are supporting these markets by choosing to buy local and support neighbors. We

look forward to more markets opening this spring and summer.

Despite recent successes in the local food scene, many of our farmers are nervous and at times terrified of the economic forecasts.

The region’s dairy farmers and cheesemakers are bracing for the worst as summer arrives. We hope the predictions are wrong, but milk pricing forecasts are formidable, dropping overnight. This sobering news means that more than ever we will need to do all we can to support our farmers. Now is the time to buy Vermont dairy. Every bit helps. Buy more milk, cheese, butter, yogurt. There is plenty.

The private sector is stepping up to help dairy farmers. Through a generous donation by the Vermont Community Foundation, milk and yogurt is being processed and donated to the Vermont Foodbank, helping dairy farmers as well as people who need food. This milk may have been discarded, but instead it is ending up on the dinner table. We thank Commonwealth Dairy, Dairy Farmers of America-St.Albans, Hood and the Foodbank for putting this program together.

We thank all those who have kept agriculture moving during uncertain times. Parts of our nation are facing deep disruption in meat processing, but Vermont’s plants are open, delivering high quality chicken, turkey, lamb, beef and pork to Vermonters.

Thanks to those farmers who are delivering food through farm stands and CSAs, and the Vermonters who are buying our fresh, quality products. This is another way to shop for local food and support your community. You also can order Vermont products online, which offers a safe and easy way to support those who face an uncertain future.

And finally, to our farmers: We know you are hurting. The Agency of Agriculture is doing its best to get you the information and resources you need to make difficult decisions. Please visit the COVID-19 page on our website. There are federal, state and private programs that might help you.

It will take all of us pulling in the same direction to get through this.

Anson TebbettsVermont Secretary of Agriculture, Food & Markets802-324-9850

The Charlotte NewsMission Statement The mission of The Charlotte News is to inform our readers about current events, issues and topics, and to serve as a forum for the free exchange of views of town residents and community volunteer organizations on matters related to Charlotte and the lives of its residents.

Letters, Commentaries and ObituariesConsistent with our mission The Charlotte News publishes letters to the editor, commentaries and obituaries from our readers. All letters, commentaries and obituaries are subject to review and approval by the news editor of the paper and to the following rules and standards:

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Publisher: Vince Crockenberg Editorial Staff

Managing Editor: Anna Cyr ([email protected])News Editor: Chea Waters Evans ([email protected])Contributing Editor: Edd MerrittCopy editors: Beth Merritt, Vince Crockenberg Proofreaders: Edd Merritt, Mike & Janet Yantachka

Business StaffAd manager: Elizabeth Langfeldt ([email protected])Bookkeeper: Susan Jones

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Board MembersPresident: Vince Crockenberg ([email protected])Treasurer: Ted leBlanc([email protected])Board members: Bob Bloch, Gay Regan, Tom Tiller, John Quinney, Jack Fairweather, Christina Asquith, Claudia Marshall, Ben Miller, Bailey Grattelo, John Hammer (emeritus)Technical advisor: Melissa Mendelsohn, Orchard Road Computers

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ON THE COVER

Opinion

Letter to the Editor

Trout lilyPhoto by Lee Krohn

Vermonters: Contribute to keeping agriculture afloat this summer

Dear Charlotters,

This can only be an echo of Rookie Manning’s extremely thoughtful, insightful and loving remembrance of Monica Smith. Monica’s time at Charlotte Central spanned most of my tenure on the board. Consequently, it strikes me as appropriate to underline what struck me as the essence of Rookie›s tremendous insights.

Many of us had the good fortune to be part of CCS during Monica’s time there. A simple, inescapable fact was evident: In all of my time around children—parent, coach, board-related things, simply watching—I never met anyone who loved children (and showed it) as much as Monica. The depth of that affection

was often amazing. Monica had an understanding of the true nature and value of diversity—loving, as she did, each child in that child’s own right—with a depth of insight and understanding which very few have.

I once asked Monica whether she aspired to a higher level of administration. Her answer was pure Monica (delivered with that smile and accent that we all remember), “Nah—too far from the kids.”

If there was ever a person who lived her first, best choice of vocation to the fullest it was Monica.

Her patience with and understanding of children was remarkable. (This is before we even get to how well she dealt with parents and board members.) In Monica’s

case, “Go to the principal’s office” took on an entirely different connotation—for everyone. Monica found and focused on the positive in some pretty tough situations as well as in her day-to-day routine. Her perseverance in doing this was phenomenal.

The children and parents who traveled through Charlotte Central School while Monica was principal received a true gift which was at times obvious, at times invisible, but which permeated every facet of life at CCS and nurtured every child in the building.

We were very lucky to have her there to light the place up (exactly, Rookie). Good fortune, indeed.

Clyde E. Baldwin

We are currently seeking proposals to redesign The Charlotte News website, charlottenewsvt.org, on the latest WordPress CMS platform. The new website will be scalable, responsive and manageable in-house.

We have four goals for the new website:

• To reflect and support our values, our mission and our outreach to the community.

• To include most if not all of the current website’s content, pages and functionality.

• To attain a two-second response time for the site to render.

• To launch the new website by July 16 at the latest.

In order to meet our July 16 launch date, we’re asking for proposals to be submitted by May 22—only a few days away! Our full request for proposals is available from board member John Quinney, [email protected].

A new website for The Charlotte News

4 • May 14, 2020 • The Charlotte News

Chittenden Solid Waste District representative

Though interviewee Ken Spencer joked that his reason for wanting the position of CSWD representative is, “I have nothing to do. I’m bored,” he said he’s actually passionate about litter cleanup. He said he invented a litter-pickup device, to which board member Louise McCarren said, “Are you the guy we see walking along the road?” Spencer confirmed that he is “that guy,” and thanked her for not running him over; she in turn thanked him for his efforts to keep the town clean.

Spencer was approved 5-0 as the new representative, and the prior CSWD contact from Charlotte, Abby Foulk, was unanimously confirmed as the alternate representative. Both terms expire on May 31, 2022.

Request to use old flea market as Charlotte Crossings parking

Debra Kassabian attended as a representative for the Charlotte Crossings property on Route 7; it borders the town-owned land that was the former flea market. The owners of Charlotte Crossings are interested in possibly using the flea market area for overflow event parking.She said her request was not specifically to use the land soon, but rather to find out, “How do we do that? Would the town be open to it? We’re looking for direction on that; what would be the next steps or requirements?” Kassabian, along with her husband and business partner Mike Dunbar, are currently in the midst of a Planning Commission request to allow them to change town parking land use regulations.

Krasnow noted that though the land is town-owned, “The town is required to go through same planning process through the Planning Commission or Zoning Board as any other landowner; the town would have to look into it more than just approving it.”

Krasnow also mentioned that before the matter goes too much farther, other requests to use that land have also been made. The land has been floated as a possible alternate location of the town garage, a park and ride location, and a possible solar site for town energy.

A site visit was scheduled during the May 18 Selectboard meeting at 6 p.m.; adjacent property owners will be contacted, and Road Commissioner Jr. Lewis and Energy Committee members will be included.

Homestead declaration deadline extended

Town Clerk and Treasurer Mary Mead suggested that late fees for filing Homestead declaration be waived; the deadline has been extended already from April 1 to July 15. She said it seems an “unnecessary penalty” and suggested the board waive it for FY21. The motion was approved 5-0.

Austerity measures

This is where the lengthy part of the meeting came in; with 25 minutes allotted to the matter, discussion went on for over an hour. The jumping-off point was a bill submitted to the town by the Energy Committee, represented in the meeting by Chair Rebecca Foster, for $500, as well as a $900 request from the EC for a new computer.

On April 23, the $500 expenditure was approved by the Selectboard as part of the EC’s operating budget. The money is to be paid to the Transition Town Charlotte group, which will use the funds to install energy-saving window dressings in homes of low-income residents. On April 27, the Selectboard voted unanimously that budget austerity measures are necessary due to potential financial stress resulting from the coronavirus epidemic, and that all commissions and committees should make every attempt to reduce their expenditures by five percent.

The resulting questions centering on EC budget questions reflected the bigger issue: How much town money be spent when the financial future of the town and its residents is so uncertain?

Krasnow said he thought that philosophically, the money was actually part of the austerity measures. The idea of the Energy Committee donating $500 to save taxpayers money is part of the austerity effort, the money spent will save people with a tax burden.”

Mead expressed concern that the window treatments are to be installed in FY21, which starts in July, and that the bill shouldn’t be submitted and paid now when there are no receipts for materials as of yet. Foster agreed that the amount didn’t have to be paid now but would be paid as part of the EC’s budget in advance of the winter season.

Foster also noted that now that the $500 had been removed from the EC’s budget for FY20, they were coming in with at least a 34 percent reduction in their budget for the year, “Much better than the five percent, I have to point out,” she said. This turned out not to be enough of a reason to approve the EC’s next request quite yet.

The Energy Committee hopes to purchase a computer, to be installed and used at the Charlotte Library, and operated with the assistant of library staff, that will be used for energy-related matters and research. It will feature the Brighter Vermont Community Energy Dashboard, a web site and online tools operated by the nonprofit Vermont Energy Action Network.

Foster, along with Library Director Margaret Woodruff, explained during the meeting that the current library computers aren’t capable of running all the tools the Energy Committee would like to have available, and that the purchase of a $900 Dell computer would solve the problem.

Foster said the dashboard will “help towns monitor energy goals and their progress toward

them. We’ve been struggling trying to figure out how to get people to use the tool and engage the community,” she said, “ and the library is providing computer and technical support to help people use it. The Energy Committee has been talking about it for years; it’s quite frankly an efficient and cheap way to get it done. I think it’s good value.”

Though discussion indicated that the Selectboard members see the value in such a program eventually, they were not sold on the idea enough to approve it and scheduled further discussion for the May 26 meeting. Foster agreed to provide further information about the computer ahead of time.

Recreation Department and Rec Commission

The Charlotte Beach is closed, and Recreation Director Nicole Conley said she doesn’t anticipate that it will be opening on its traditional Memorial Day season start date. Compounding the COVID-19 directives from the state to remain closed are the issues surrounding maintenance even if the government allows beaches to open.

One problem, Conley said, is that the restrooms, which are currently closed, would need to be cleaned adhering to specific cleaning protocols, and that even if staff were available to do so, the required materials, such as disinfectant wipes, are scarce.

Conley, along with Recreation Commission Chair Bill Fraser-Harris, said that they are currently in a holding pattern, and in the absence of preparation for the season with

hiring and supplies, she doesn’t anticipate a formal opening any time soon.

The tennis courts are open, though the playground will remain closed.

Other business

The Selectboard went over the finer points of a request for proposals for the Tails Committee work on the next section of the Town Link Trail; it will be published for bids and a May 20 site visit was scheduled.

The board aims to interview candidates for the soon-to-be-vacant town planner position during the first week of June, with the intent of making an offer on June 8. They agreed to advertise in Seven Days, indeed.com, and a town planner listserv.

A formal motion was made and approved, 5-0, to thank departing town planner Daryl Arminius for his hard work, and to let him know how much he is appreciated.

The board quickly convened as the as the liquor control board in order to renew liquor licenses for wine, beer, and spirits, both inside and outdoors at Philo Ridge Farm.

After deferring several agenda items, the board finished up with agreeing to suspend the requirement to record all town commission and committee meetings with the exception of Selectboard and Planning Commission meetings.

Also, meeting attendee Susan Smith said early on in the evening, “It’s good to see you people; I’ve missed what’s going on in the town.”

Dottie Waller

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Staff report

The Vermont Department of Health announced last week that all Vermonters with even mild symptoms are encouraged to contact their health care provider to get tested for COVID-19, the disease that results from infection with the novel coronavirus. This includes parents of children who have symptoms that could be related to COVID-19.

According to a press release from the DOH, “Your provider will refer you to a hospital or health center near you that can perform the test at no cost. If you don’t have a healthcare provider, call 2-1-1 to connect with a community or hospital-connected clinic.”

Symptoms that merit a call to a healthcare provider include fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell.

People with any symptoms of COVID-19 should first call their healthcare provider. The symptoms may start two to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

The testing site closest to Charlotte is in Colchester, and the state has opened three additional pop-up sites. According to the DOH , “The pop-up testing sites are for asymptomatic health care workers, first responders (EMS, fire, and law enforcement), and childcare providers currently serving

essential workers. People who are returning to the state, and who will be at day 7 or later in their quarantine period, can also be tested. These include people returning from wintering out of state, college students, and people who are coming to stay in their second homes.”

To make an appointment for one of the pop-up sites, health care workers, first responders childcare providers and returning Vermonters should visit humanresources.vermont.gov/popups. The new pop-up sites are in Bennington and White River Junction.

The pop-up sites are not open to the general public. The Health Department encourages all Vermonters with symptoms—no matter how mild—to contact their primary care provider to get referred to a nearby testing site.

Vermont expands COVID-19 testing

COVID-19

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COVID-19

For those of us parents who are losing our minds at home with toilet paper roll sculpture, eye rolling marathons and wearing elastic waist pants for 3 days in a row...things are looking up!

In all seriousness, COVID-19 is not showing up in children in our state or elsewhere. In Vermont to date, there has been one case in a child under age 10 and 27 cases under age 19. Nationally 1 to 2 percent of total cases of COVID-19 (test positive) are in children and adolescents. And the growth rate of the virus has remained low, about 1 percent, in recent weeks.

Governor Scott amended his executive order on May 6 to allow Vermonters to “Play Smart and Play Safe.” The specific changes include small social gatherings of 10 people or less, preferably outdoors. Kids are able to play together after two months of being home with family.

The governor also announced last week that summer day-camps can open, thrusting parents into planning and decision-making mode. Specifics on which camps will offer programs and for how many children are yet to come. Childcare specifics will come out this week from the governor’s office.

Will B., a Charlotte Central School middle schooler, remarks that he is excited to “play catch on the ball field and try new hikes.” He points out that kids can “stay far enough away but close enough to connect.” He said he plans to take advantage of the updated guidance and enjoy “biking, lawn games and reading The Charlotte News.”

Governor Scott remarked at his press conference last week that state and municipal parks, recreation associations, trail networks, golf courses, tennis courts and skate parks will open to the public. Campgrounds will not yet open, and sports leagues are not under way. Kids have been seeing one another in neighborhoods and biking together on trails and roads, but now the contact can be more purposeful and in small groups if parents are comfortable.

“Our daughters have felt the same longing to connect with their peer group as we adults have. In the beginning, FaceTiming friends was novel and somewhat filled the void, but quickly they lost interest and just wanted to hang out with their friends, which of course wasn’t possible,” said Tina Helzer, a Charlotte mother of three and a local restaurant owner. “They felt isolated and sad. Now that we’ve been given the go ahead to hang out with other close friends, our kids are ecstatic merely at the opportunity to reconnect with their friends! We are going to take it day by day and ease into it, just seeing neighborhood friends first; but even this first step back

to normalcy has brought my kiddos back to life again.”

Basic precautions very much matter with these latest measures. If anything, they matter more than ever to prevent a surge of illness. Wash hands. Don’t touch your face. Cough into your arm if you have to cough. Don’t spit just for the heck of it. And most important, if you feel sick, stay away from others at home. Get tested if you are ill. The symptoms known to be associated with coronavirus include fever, cough, aches, headache, chills, chest tightness, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell.

Testing is far more available in Vermont now and will be a crucial tool in continuing to re-open our state and get kids out and about. If you or a family member is even slightly ill, please contact your primary care provider to explore COVID-19 testing. Especially with childcare starting to re-open for all, childhood illness will resume.

Cloth masks will remain an important tool and are recommended for children over the

age of two. As the state opens up, wearing a mask if you cannot guarantee six feet of distance or if you enter a store remains a key step in staying safe and healthy. So play safe, play smart, all!

Kids got the go-ahead from the governor to play together, but social distancing rules still apply. Sam Moore and Will Wygmans cleared some trails in the woods this weekend. Photo by Elizabeth Hunt

Physician guidance for Play Smart and Play Safe

Dr. Elizabeth Hunt


Around TownCongratulationsDistinctive Landscaping won two awards in the Landscape Industry Awards Program. Miles Weston and Brian Pellerin won an Honor Award for their backyard design that they titled “Family Matters.” It is an open-air flag stone patio that looks over a backyard and family garden.

Charlie Proutt and Christian D’Andrea, also from Distinctive Landscaping, received a Merit Award for a house design they call “A New Approach.” It features an open upper deck that overlooks the surrounding natural habitat.

Church Hill Landscapes, Inc. received an Excellence Award for its “Fanny Allen Learning Garden,” designed by the company’s Graham MacHarg. It features an enclosed yet open-air garden with a patio, table and chairs looking on to it.

The following Charlotte students’ poems appeared in two editions of the Burlington Free Press in the “Young Writers” section: Lila Taylor’s poem titled “I miss the mundane” appeared on May 1. In it Lila talks

about missing the things she used to take for granted, and there are many of them: from the sound of her alarm at 6:30 a.m. to feeling tired after a long day. She misses feeling at ease. But, ultimately, she misses feeling normal.

Annika Gruber and Ava Rohrbaugh had their poems appear on May 8. Annika talks about “Concrete Flowers,” flowers of the cityscape. They are rare in the city, she says. Yet, there are those that come from the urban nature—through cracks in the sidewalks, those that “dance in the breeze, just waiting to be noticed.” Ava asks readers to “Call me by my name.” In her poem she says there are many things people can call her—fast, keen, wise, sweet, brave, a friend. And yet, as she and others “journey down the trails no others would dare, please call me Ava.”

Ellen and Ryan McGinnis, of the University of Vermont, have developed PanicMechanic, a smartphone app that allows the user to measure the body’s physiological response to a panic attack. Ellen, an assistant professor at UVM’s Center for Children, Youth and Families, first learned about biofeedback while a doctoral candidate at the University of Michigan. She worked with Ryan, an associate

professor of electrical and biomechanical engineering, to develop the app. With a finger positioned over the camera on a smartphone, a viewer can see blood flowing through the capillaries. A full story of the app appears in the May 6 Seven Days.

Ryan grew up in Charlotte, and he and Ellen are graduates of Champlain Valley Union High School. They currently live in Shelburne. While PanicMechanic costs $19.99 at Apple’s AppStore, beginning on May 6, the app will be free to all frontline workers. Another former Charlotter, James Hudziak, who is UVM’s director for children, youth and families, says he is “hopeful that advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence and biomechanical engineering can help provide valuable clinical data and possibly aid in mental health treatment.”Jay and Marcia Vogler’s Pizza on Earth was a featured eatery in the May 11 issue of the Burlington Free Press. It was the first in a series the paper will do on take-out restaurants that serve during the pandemic. Reviewer Brent Hallenbeck praised the pepperoni and caper pizza he ordered, saying it was a “satisfying but not over-filling meal.”

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Did you know that Vermont was the first state to designate a day of the year to clean up litter along the roadsides? And on that day in 1970, 50 years ago (!), participation and results far exceeded expectations: 95 percent of the 2,400 miles of the interstate and state roads and 75 percent of the 8,300 miles of town roads were cleared of garbage. Thanks to Governor Deane C. Davis and Senator George Aiken, we have a wonderful tradition that inspires Vermonters to get out and de-trash this beautiful state.

In our town, Green Up Day has had a robust turnout every year with tons (yes, tons) of litter removed from our roadsides. This year, Green Up Day is Saturday, May 30. We will be at the west parking lot at Charlotte Central School from 8 a.m. to

6 p.m. To round out the weekend, there is e-waste recycling at the event and a group cleanup of the Charlotte Park and Wildlife Refuge.

Due to the pandemic, the school district requires that we practice safety measures as suggested by the state. Wear masks and keep a safe distance from others while at the event. Please sign up on our website for a route to clean up or email me at [email protected]. You can also get a route at the event on Saturday.

This year we will be giving out green bags for trash and optional clear bags for redeemable and recyclable plastic containers. Bags can be picked up at the event on Saturday. You can carry just a green bag and put everything in there, or you can carry both bags and separate trash from recyclable items. Please do not leave

filled bags on the roadside—they must be returned to the event site.

Volunteers are needed. My co-coordinator Ken Spencer and I would love to have helpers at the Quonset Hut. Two-hour—or longer—shifts are available. Our website has all the information you need, and lots more. Visit CharlotteVTGreenUpDay.com or email me with any questions or to sign up to help out.

I don’t know about you, but it warms my heart to see folks out cleaning up our town together. It says so much about how we care for this land and shows how important it is in so many ways to keep trash from piling up. Whether driving, biking or walking around town, isn’t it great to not see that junk? And to share a collective feeling of stewardship? Thank you for helping out on this special day!

Green Up Day 2020: 50th anniversary

Jan. 8 Scott Hardy to David and Heather Main, 5.0 acres, 801 Mt. Philo Road, $140,000.

Jan. 13 David G. Schermerhorn, trustee. David G. Schermerhorn Revocable Trust, to Salvatore

Trovetto and Lise Bruder, 3.25 acres, e/s Church Hill Road, Lot #3, $140,000.

Jan. 13 David and Robin Oates to Leland and Cheryl Brown, 1.12 acres with dwelling, 5807

Mt. Philo Road, $100,000.

Jan. 21 David Wilson and Elizabeth Bunsen to William Smith, 1.65 acres with dwelling, 23 Wishbone Lane, $200,000.

Jan. 21 Charlotte Oaks LLC to Andrew G. Zehner 2019 Revocable Trust and Suzanne L. Whitty 2019 Revocable Trust, 1.14 acres with dwelling, 209 Hills Point Road, $1,165,000.

Jan. 23 Joshua Rose to Silvia Doyle, 5.3 acres with dwelling, 343 White Birch Lane, $750,000.

Jan. 29 Melvin I. and Ynez L. Kaplan to William Brown and Megan Browning, 5.0 acres, lot #2, Morningside Drive, $85,000.

Feb. 3 William Frank and Christine Koster to Edward and Anne Dixson, 3.52 acres with dwelling, 269 Thorp Cove Road, $1,550,000.

Feb. 8 Brady and Karla Toensing to David R. Rothenbucher and Carla Hunter, 0.95 acres with dwelling, 2613 Greenbush Road, $755,000.

Property transfers

see PROPERTY page 7

File photo.


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We’re Open for Business in Vermont

Report from the Legislature

Rep. Mike Yantachka

We are now two months into the societal shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but it honestly feels much longer. It seems hard to remember when we nonchalantly shook hands, greeted others with hugs and pats on

the back, and could see the faces of folks we encountered in a grocery store. It isn’t bad enough that the economic shutdown has caused unprecedented job losses, but help for many of those who lost jobs or their businesses or had their hours cut back has been tangled up in a jungle of bureaucracy compounded by a 50-year-old antiquated computer system. Because of the success of Vermont’s response to the pandemic in flattening the curve and avoiding an overwhelmed health care system, Governor Scott is gradually “opening the spigot,” as he puts it, to allow some businesses to reopen while maintaining proper hygienic measures.

However, the problems with unemployment assistance continue to plague many Vermonters who are having trouble obtaining the benefits they are owed and who are running out of money. There are several reasons for this situation that amounted to a perfect storm for the Vermont Department of Labor. (It should be noted that most other states are having similar issues.) Take the age of the computer system that handles unemployment claims. It is running on a mainframe computer that was state of the art in the 1970s but is woefully outdated now. It is programmed in a language called COBOL. Programmers familiar with COBOL are long-retired or about to retire. Large-scale updates to the software are not feasible or practical. Two attempts over the last decade to replace the system, both of which were part of a consortium of several states to share the cost of development, have not been successful.

So now we’re stuck with an inadequate system that was working fine when there were 200 to 400 applications per week but

can’t handle the 87,000 that were generated en masse since mid-March. The 65 regular VDOL employees who input and process claims were overwhelmed. Calling in to the department became virtually impossible. Since the initial flood of claims, 200 additional personnel were hired, including a call center firm called Maximus. At the same time, the federal CARES Act allowed self-employed persons, who don’t qualify under the regular system because they don’t contribute to the unemployment insurance fund, to sign up for benefits. As a result, a new, unfamiliar Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) system had to be set up alongside the Unemployment Insurance (UI) system to handle an additional 17,000 claims. To complicate things further, the relaxed rules for claiming unemployment were not reflected in the programming, which caused some applicants to be incorrectly disqualified.

Every one of the 180 members of the Vermont House and Senate has heard from constituents who are rightly frustrated at their inability to navigate the jungle that is currently the state’s unemployment system. After hearing from constituents for weeks, the House created a spreadsheet to allow legislators to record the complaints and situations of their constituents for referral to a special Labor Department team. In addition, 24 legislators have volunteered to assist in connecting claimants on that list to appropriate department employees.

The Labor Department has also taken steps to reverse negative eligibility codes received by many applicants. As of May 10, 54,000 of the 61,000 UI claimants determined to be eligible have been paid, and 8,600 of the 17,000 PUA claimants have received payment. Both the administration and the Legislature know that more must be done, and we are working cooperatively to achieve that for our constituents.

Be well, stay safe—and persist.

I welcome your emails ([email protected]) or phone calls (802-233-5238). This article and others can be found at my website, MikeYantachka.com.

Navigating the unemployment system jungle

Feb. 12 Doug Todd and Annie Rosenthal to J.D. and Damaris Herlihy, 0.11 acre with dwelling, 22 Common Way, $325,000.

Feb. 19 John W. Hatch and Barbara A. Garrison, trustees of Hatch Family Revocable Trust, to Frank McIntire and Adela Nunez, 5.5 acres with dwelling, 5059 Spear Street, $260,000.

Feb. 20 Robert E. Booth to Allen C. Moore Jr and Marion P. Moore, trustees, and Claudia C. Moore, trustee, seasonal cottages (16%), 2557 Thompson’s Point Road, $100,000.

Feb. 20 Richard and Jill Lowry to Jeffrey and Malia Stout, 2.43 acres with dwelling, 335 Upper Meadow Lane, $830,000.

Mar. 4 W. McHenry and Virginia Keyser to Joseph and Emily Rosenberg and Jonathan Rosenberg, 5.10 acres with dwelling, 1700 Greenbush Road, $842,500.

Apr. 1 John and Michelle Jordan to Joseph M. and Melissa Caligiuri, 3.26 acres with dwelling, 347 Popple Dungeon Road, $1,239,000.

Apr. 2 Rowan Beck to David G. and Diana T. Nelson, 2.61 acres, 48 James Farm Road, lot #4, $270,000.

Apr. 8 Thomas Gardner and Catherine McEachern to Benjamin Miller and Nicholas Bonenfant, 3.6 acres with dwelling, 81 Coyote Lane, $470,000.

Apr. 8 Donna W. Pittman Trust to 2019 Mitchell B. Shifrin Revocable Trust, 19.90 acres with dwelling, 4035 Mt. Philo Road, $510,000.

Apr. 13 Hilary Maslow (Naud) to James Donovan and Patricia O’Donnell, 124.33 acres, 125 Lake Road, $900,000.

PROPERTYcontinued from page 6


As Vermonters we should be very proud of how we have traveled this new journey together, respect-ing the parameters and guidelines that Governor Scott has outlined for us, and now, because people have been diligent and

considerate, we can now start to see our little world take some steps toward a new normal. I say a “new” normal, as I don’t see us returning to our “old” normal and, quite frankly, hope we don’t. Life, at a slower, less frenzied pace is quite nice, and I’m thinking many of you may agree with me. Although I’m now past the working stage of my life, I have to think trading a commute to working at home could be quite the nice trade, and perhaps some folks out there might have the option of having that as their new normal!The CV-19 Team met again this week and continues to try to find ways to help ease the challenge that this crisis has created for folks. Some of what is below is “old” news, but maybe some folks missed it; other information is new. The important piece is that if you have a question or are in need of some assistance, there are resources out there to contact….and if what you need is not listed or you know of a resource we have not listed, please email Mar-garet Woodruff at [email protected] or Cindi Robinson at [email protected]. Our goal is to share information about resources available and to communicate with all of you!Still not receiving unemployment benefits? Mike Yantachka, our representative to the Vermont State Legislature, is willing to try to help you. See his Report from the Legislature on page 7 of this issue. Read everything in your home?Our library is operating, checking books in and out. Books can be returned at the drop boxes at the library or at Spear’s Store, where they are then quarantined for 72 hours. Using the library website or calling 425-3864, you can place a book on hold. Your request will be processed, the book disinfected and wrapped for you to pick up on the library porch. Sum-mer is coming, and the hammock or porch swing awaits.Are you a parent of a CCS student?Homeschooling can be a challenge for both

parent and child and can be even more difficult when the parent is still trying to be a productive employee from home. Parents are encouraged to connect with teachers to ask questions, seek assistance, and get encourage-ment. Use the CCS website to contact your child’s teacher. Charlotte Food Shelf is openLocated in the basement of the Charlotte Con-gregational Church, the Food Shelf is avail-able for curbside pickup on Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. If you need food or have questions, please call Karen Doris at 425-3252. Families with students at CCS who are receiving food from the school can continue to receive food into June. When that program ends for the summer, those same families should contact the Food Shelf for assistance. CCS food will resume in the fall. Food Shelf volunteers have very specific protocols to follow in order to keep everyone safe.Need financial assistance?Both the Food Shelf and the Charlotte Congre-gational Church have emergency funds to help families in need. Cindi Robinson manages the Assistance Committee for the Charlotte Food Shelf. Requests can be made by calling 425-3252 or 425-3130. The Congregational Church can also be contacted for assistance; 425-3176. And from Chris Davis, Emergency Man-agement DirectorFor the most up to date information, re-source lists, and links to many other Vermont agencies providing support during these challenging times, please go to the Vermont Department of Health website https://www.healthvermont.gov/response/coronavi-rus-covid-19or call 802-863-7240. • For non-health-related questions, dial 2-1-1 or 1-866-652-4636.•Play Smart and Play Safe Vermonters

may leave home to get fresh air and exer-cise and resume limited social interactions and gatherings of 10 or fewer, preferably in outdoor settings, provided that physical distancing and protocols consistent with guidance from VDH and the Centers for Disease Control are observed. To keep disease from spreading this means always staying home and away from others if you are sick with COVID-19, have recent-ly been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, or just don’t feel well.

•Continue to keep a 6-foot distance from others when you meet people outside of your household. Continue to limit non-es-sential travel; all travel should be limited to Vermont to the extent possible, and when you do travel, limit non-essential stops. Anyone who leaves Vermont for more than one day for non-essential travel is required to quarantine at home for 14-days upon their return.

•Vermonters may leave home to participate in outdoor recreation and outdoor fitness activities that require low or no direct physical contact.

•Take Care of Your Emotional and Mental Health Feeling anxious, confused, overwhelmed or powerless is common during an infectious disease outbreak. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs emotional support, help is available 24/7: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255; Text VT to 741741 to talk with someone at the Crisis Text Line. For more information visit healthvermont.gov/emergency/injury/sui-cide-prevention.

•Changes to previous Stay at Home orders effective May 11 Members of one household may choose to socialize— and allow children to play— with members of another household, such as family, neighbors or friends known to be following VDH/CDC health and safety precautions.

All Vermonters are encouraged to wear face coverings over their nose and mouth any time they are interacting with others from outside their households, including in congregate out-door settings. Masks are not recommended for strenuous outdoor activity. Businesses, non-profit, and government entities may require customers or clients to wear masks.

All businesses and nonprofit and govern-ment entities which support or offer outdoor recreation and outdoor fitness activities that require low or no direct physical contact may begin operations, subject to compliance with the health and safety guidelines and training requirements set out below, and applicable Agency of Commerce and Community Devel-opment guidance. These include, but are not limited to, state and municipal parks, recre-ation associations, trail networks, golf courses,

big-game check stations and guided expedi-tions. Campgrounds, marinas and beaches shall not be opened at this time. In addition, all businesses and nonprofit and government entities which support or offer outdoor recre-ation and fitness activities must implement the following measures:

• Require Vermonters participating in outdoor recreation and fitness activities to “arrive, play and leave.” Groups may not congregate before or after activities. For example, no tailgating.

• Post signage and institute registration pro-cesses that reinforce outdoor facilities are only open to Vermonters and those who have met the 14-day quarantine requirement.

• Post signage discouraging contact sports and games.

All businesses and nonprofit and government entities which support or offer outdoor rec-reation and fitness activities should go to the Agency of Commerce and Community Development website for rules, practices and mandatory health and safety and training: https://accd.vermont.gov/covid-19. Informa-tion for business assistance is also available at this website.

Child care centers can re-open June 1 and summer day camps will be able to open this summer, provided they can follow safety guidelines expected to be issued next week.

The CV-19 Team will continue to meet in the coming months to bring you up-to-date news and assistance. If you know of resources that are available that we have not listed, or if you have a need and are looking for a particular resource, please feel free to contact Trina Bi-anchi at [email protected], Cindi Robinson at [email protected], or Margaret Woodruff at [email protected].

As we start seeing life changing and opening up, please remember that this isn’t over, and we need to continue to be patient, careful and cognizant of staying safe and staying well. So far, Vermonters have excelled in this jour-ney. And if you and your family have found, discovered or rediscovered activities or things that you want to keep in your new normal, it would be fun to share those with others. If you have thoughts, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected]. Stay well, stay safe!

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On February 6, The Charlotte News published an article by Chittenden County Forester Ethan Tapper on wolf trees. Tapper defines a wolf tree as one that grows in an open field, like a “lone wolf.” Charlotte has several such trees, including a big sugar maple to the right on the road going up Mt. Philo, 200 or so yards before the road splits into an up road and a down road.

This tree survived the 1998 ice storm, when most of the trees on that side of the mountain were destroyed by the weight of the ice on their branches. After the storm, cleanup crews carefully trimmed the tree to preserve it, but all other trees nearby were removed.

I have attended two slide shows about Mt. Philo. Both showed the tree as a youngster growing in an open pasture on the road going from the Mt. Philo Inn up toward where the road now splits. The second presenter was Judy Chaves, whose guidebook, “Secrets of Mount Philo,” included a postcard picture of the tree in an open pasture. In the book, she described the picture as an “Early 20th century view of Mount Philo.”

I don’t remember tales of wolves in early Charlotte, but in Berlin, Vermont, where I grew up, a wolf hunt occurred in 1803. In February of that year, 11-year-old Daniel Baldwin was walking in West Berlin when he was chased by wolves. A few days later a wolf hunt was organized on Irish Hill where seven wolves were shot. The scalps were removed and taken to the Berlin town clerk, Able Knapp, who paid the state bounty, and a keg of rum was purchased with the money.

If there were wolves in Charlotte, they had probably been eliminated to collect the bounty well before 1803; it’s unlikely that trees growing in the open after that would have been thought of as “wolf trees.”

I made the short walk up the road to the surviving tree on April 8 to measure its circumference. The tree is growing on the side of a hill and an exact measurement is impossible, but the circumference of the tree including the rough bark is 10 and 2/3 feet at a point five feet from the ground on one side and two and a quarter feet from the ground on the opposite side. This means that the diameter at this height is 40 and 3/4 inches, including the bark.

The “wolf” on Mount Philo Continue up the mountain road. 400 feet beyond the first hairpin curve, standing 50 feet uphill from the road, is a majestic, widely branching maple with a large gnarled trunk. The wide branching of the tree speaks of time growing out in the open (such trees are sometimes called “wolf” trees). And indeed, this is the same tree shown in the previously mentioned postcard ... standing by itself in a field, uphill and slightly distant from the newly built carriage road. Also visible in the photo is a row of younger trees, maple saplings, probably planted along the road soon after it was built. Several of these trees are visible today beyond the large maple, growing in a straight line along the current road, on the uphill side.

Judy Chaves, Secrets of Mount Philo

Top right: Dave Perrin stands dwarfed by the wolf sugar maple on the road up Mount Philo. Photo contributed

Right: The sugar maple as a youngster on the right-hand side of Mount Philo Road in what was once open pasture.

Photo courtesy “Secrets of Mount Philo” by Judy Chavez


Greetings from across town! We hope that you and your families are well and have a chance to enjoy the somewhat slow start to spring here in Charlotte.Porch pickup of library materials continues!

Thanks so much for your patience as we get the items ready for you. Here are a few updates:• Starting Monday, May 11, our

porch pickup will run Mondaythrough Friday from 10 a.m. to 2p.m. Please place your requestsvia the Charlotte Library website(charlottepubliclibrary.org) or bycalling the library at 425-3864. Feelfree to leave a message with yourrequests if we are unable to answerthe phone.

• Library staff will be in touch withyou to confirm that your items areavailable and to arrange your pickuptime.

• If you have any questions, pleasedo not hesitate to contact us viaphone (425.3864) or email ([email protected]).

Virtual Events at the Charlotte Library

Baby Time: Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. Join us for a live Baby Time on Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. Stories, songs and fun for the youngest ones. Please contact us for an invitation to the virtual event: [email protected].

Story Time: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Join Cheryl for live story time from the library. Favorite stories and crafts to keep 3- to 5-year-olds engaged and entertained.Please contact us for an invitation to theevent: [email protected].

Mad Scientist Online: May 14 at 3 p.m. Try your hand at fun experimentsusing household items with help from thetech team of Susanna and Charlie. We’llwork together and share results in thislive Zoom session. Please email info@

charlottepubliclibrary.org for an invitation.History Alive 1936! May 27 at 3 p.m. Undoubtedly 2020 will be a year remembered in history, and it’s only spring. Many monumental years have shaped our political, social, and aesthetic choices. One such year was 1936. Join us for a lively Zoom discussion! Imagine America in depression, Europe on the verge of war, Jesse Owens and Olympics held in Germany, Spain engaged in a brutal civil war, democracies tested by fascism and communism, Hoover Dam, Beryl Markham’s transatlantic flight, the arts flourishing with jazz and swing music, Langston Hughes, Georgia O’Keefe and more. Although we turn the clock back 84 years, we will make connections to our current pandemic challenge and such pressing issues as human rights; distribution of income; race and gender imbalance, political fanaticism; and environmental anesthesia. We will examine the many stories and perspectives of 1936 through political, social, scientific and aesthetic lenses. All are welcometo participate and bring perspectives, insights and questions! Co-sponsored by the Charlotte Library and the Charlotte Senior Center. To register,view the library calendar at charlottepubliclibrary.org/calendar and view the event on May 28.

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Our leashes have been lengthened! Governor Phil Scott and his administration are gradually re-opening Vermont, and with that comes more opportunities to get outdoors at this beautiful time of year.

Here are some ideas.

There is at least one owl’s nest on Mt. Philo, possibly two. Grab your binoculars and take a look. Also plenty of migrating birds at this time of year.

Are the wildflowers more beautiful and abundant this year, or is it the unbounded joy of seeing them in these dark times? Our long stretch of cool weather seems to have frozen many flowers in time, from daffodils to hepatica and spring beauties. White trillium carpet many locations—check out Kingsland Bay for an extravagant display.

Green Up Day will unfold in Charlotte on Saturday, May 30. Pick up some green bags for trash and a clear one for redeemables and give our roadsides some TLC. Make sure to stay socially distanced and take the usual precautions against poison ivy and sharp objects. Look for a sign-up link on the Town of

Charlotte website: charlottevt.org.

Several friends have been exploring some less-familiar places, among them Colchester Pond in northern Colchester, East Woods on Swift Street in South Burlington, Rock Point in Burlington, TAM (Trail Around Middlebury), area town forests, and the Otter Creek Wildlife Management Area in North Ferrisburgh.

Perhaps you have noticed “Local Traffic Only” signs in Burlington’s South End? This is an effort to make safe spaces for bikers and pedestrians by slowing traffic. Local Motion, a nonprofit that advocates for safe access for people-powered activities like walking, running, and biking, hosts a website that is rich in ideas for having safe fun in the outdoors: scavenger hunts for families, bike routes from five miles to 100+ for bikepackers, bike games, safety and maintenance refreshers, how to use a balance bike to teach a child to ride on two wheels, even yoga for cyclists. Local Motion is advocating for bike shops to be considered essential, ensuring that repairs and purchases can unfold with curbside delivery and pickup.

Local Motion maintains the very popular Bike Ferry connecting Burlington and Colchester to South Hero. Major reconstruction of the causeway has been delayed, so the May opening of the ferry has been postponed until July. Check Local Motion’s website before setting out for a ride, localmotion.org

I’m not encouraging more screen time—we’re all getting plenty with work, social and family obligations—but some rainy day check out Green Mountain Club’s virtual workshops and events: Zoom Hiking 101—basics for hiking close to home or a thru-hike on the Long Trail, including fitness, planning, Leave No Trace, proper gear, and more; Nature Story Time with GMC; Online Outdoor Trivia; iNaturalist and Northeast Alpine Flower Citizen Science Training; and Long Trail End-to-Enders Panel, greenmoutainclub.org.

Vermont State Parks are accepting camping reservations for June 15 or later. Parks are expected to be operational for the 2020 season with possible changes to park services.

If you are heeding the request to remove invasive garlic mustard while taking walks, keep a few things in mind. Wear gloves as

there may also be poison ivy or dog poop, as some have discovered. Try to remove all of the thick white tap root. The root stores enough energy for flowers and seeds to continue to develop long after the plant has been pulled. For this reason, do not compost garlic mustard; each plant can produce thousands of seeds. Keep a black plastic bag handy and dispose of it as trash.

Rules of thumb to keep us all safe: If a parking lot or trailhead is crowded, consider another location or another time of day. Walk single file if you meet other walkers. Carry hand sanitizer. Don’t expect restrooms to be open. Keep dogs, if permitted, leashed and close if you pass others. Wash hands as soon as possible. If you feel sick, stay home!

Get outdoors. Be safe and smart! Enjoy!

Outdoors

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1401 Thompsons Point Road, Charlotte | 802-425-2431 | pointbaymarina.com

The staff at Point Bay Marina is looking forward to seeing everyone. Your safety and the safety of our staff is of utmost importance so we will be following guidelines set forth by the Governor.

Please keep that in mind when you visit the marina.

The Ship’s Store is fully stocked and ready to serve. If you like call ahead and your order will be waiting for you.

Celebrating spring, toys for outdoor fun, and our reopening next week!

Lo c at e d i n t h e

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Though it got a good dose of snow, this tulip survived Saturday night’s flurries.

Photo by Elizabeth Bassett

Get outdoors and stay safe: The leash has been lengthened

Elizabeth Bassett


Greetings from Los Angeles – where I write to you, floundering between violent boredom and mania-fueled productivity, tucked within the confines of my two-bedroom apartment. Maybe you too

are spending far too long surfing the endless ocean of digital content. Maybe you too can’t decide if you should clean the house, work out, send emails, or watch the paint dry. Maybe you too can’t decide whether you should go to sleep at a reasonable hour or just continue to be awake. What once was “not enough hours in the day” has quickly turned into “far too many.” I miss the old world, where time felt concrete and our days weren’t so nebulous. It’s not like I was living life to the fullest before we all self-quarantined, but I certainly didn’t think about the boundless possibilities until now.

There’s a lot we’re missing out on. Going out to restaurants, running into friends on the street, or casually window shopping all seem like rich distant memories. I find myself making lists of all the things I can’t wait to do when I can finally put my face mask in a shoebox and venture outside. What will I do first? How will I maximize my experience? Checking the news each morning feels like I’m asking my parents from the back of the car, “Are we there yet?”

In a sick twist of irony, right before the pandemic I was asked to put together a dinner party playlist. No prompt, no theme, but complete freedom to construct the perfect soundtrack to socializing over a shared meal. As always, I overthought the assignment, stressed about it, and eventually made three separate playlists of different sounds and styles, all of which now sit collecting dust in my Spotify account. Since we have the time, let’s throw a few different types of dinner parties and see how it goes. What else do we have to do?

Go one on one

I think the best place to start is somewhere private—I’m talking one on one. Maybe it’s an old friend you need quality time to catch up with, or a crush you’re trying to woo with your culinary skills and recently cleaned home. Whatever or whomever, you’re going to need a playlist that’s warm, embracing, and open enough to allow conversation to flow freely between gulps and bites. If you read my letter from February, it’ll come as no surprise I find that a robust collection of jazz will do just the trick.

Start off strong, maybe with Blue Note Record classics like Horace Silver’s “Song For My Father” or Bobby Hutcherson’s “Yuyo,” something that your guest might recognize and perk their ears toward. The goal here is to begin with a sequence that grooves, carries a sense of pace, but doesn’t come across as too busy. At this point, beverages have been handed out and it’s likely time to sit down to a small bite. Let’s dial back the energy oh-so-slightly—try some sounds from Brazil, like percussionist Dom Um Romao or famed songwriter Marcos Valle, to mellow the mood with a sense of sophistication. The bouncing Bossa Nova guitar will maintain the tempo of the evening, while the traditionally soft vocals of Brazilian jazz will allow you to settle back in your seat and get comfortable.

As the night progresses, feather your foot on the gas pedal. Stick around the speed limit with some light instrumentals from Joe Thomas or Les Hooper, but make sure to rev the engine every once in a while with something more active or vocal from a few of my favorites, French psyche-jazz outfit Cortex or Washington-based crooner Primo Kim. Throw the car in cruise and take it to wherever you need to go; assuming you’ve cooked up something delicious, you’re heading exactly where you’ll want to be.

All of that sounds sophisticato and a bit sexy, but maybe that’s not your style. Perhaps you want to expand your invite list and bring over your favorite houseguests. The entire scene is slightly more active, but still maintains a similar sense of intimacy. Shift gears and sprinkle in some funk and soul to set the tone. In these instances, I like to keep my music upbeat and full of brass, especially when you’re trying to transition from dessert into parlor games and successfully leap over any residual sluggishness from a full stomach.

I love the palpable energy from a good old-fashioned solo to guide you through: saxophone solos like those in Ramsey Lewis and Earth Wind & Fire’s “Sun Goddess,” or the synthesizer shredding in Les McCann’s “Someday We’ll Meet Again,” keeps spirits high. Your ears find themselves accustomed to familiar melodic motifs while still being tickled by the excitement of a kinetic instrumental feature.

Don’t be afraid to slow it down and heat things up with a series of more sweet and soulful songs. Joe Bataan’s version of “Crystal Blue Persuasion” or Milton Wright’s “All I Know Is That I Have You” find a perfect balance between something spirited and conclusive, a host’s gentle way of saying, “This was fun, but it’s time to go.” Once you’re left to your own devices, start the dishes while you treat yourself to a song that says “mission accomplished.” Try Allen Toussaint’s “When the Party’s Over” to get you in a scrubbing mood.

Go bigLet’s imagine you want to go big and start inviting everyone over. This is happening. People are coming to your place and you’re gearing up to entertain on a grand scale to which no host has ever entertained before. It’s time to text the neighbors about future loud noises, purchase a tub of ice, and get ready to set your stereo to “stun.” We’re having a house party. But we’re also adults here, so we want to keep things tasteful.

The formula for a fantastic night of music isn’t too different from our smaller get-togethers; you need to stimulate a sense of excitement without drowning out your guests with excess activity. You need thick bass lines and perky tempos, and a whole lot of it. Don’t turn an ankle right out the gate. Start simple and ramp things up throughout the night. You don’t want your first guests arriving to an empty house with your speakers thumping off the walls. Launch into some skipping guitar riffs and four-on-the-floor drums from some of

my favorites: Germany’s World Brain or LA’s own Secret Circuit, and leave the door open. Guests will kick off their shoes and help themselves to a drink in rhythm with the beginning of the night just before you dive into a series of more robust songs, like Krystal Klear’s ‘80s infused tune “Dekryptic” or Rainbow Arabia’s “Plena.”

As the party takes form, don’t be afraid to take requests or toss in some throwback tunes. I personally like to work in a song from ’90s Japanese rockers Buffalo Daughter, or even end the night with “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears. As a host, no matter what you put on your stereo, your aim is to please, so keep an eye and ear on how everyone is feeling and act accordingly.

Even through we’re on our own for the time being, it’s never too early to start weaving together a playlist and fantasize about putting it into practice. While you’re at it, try a few of my recent favorites on for size. Pour a morning coffee to new sounds from London’s Cleo Sol or brood in contemplation with Adrian Younge and Ali Shaheed Muhammad’s latest compilation of jazz legends of yesteryear, Jazz is Dead 001. Until then, I hope to see you out and about real soon.

To listen to my monthly playlists of songs assembled for The Charlotte News go to: charlottenewsvt.org/voices/music/

Signing off, John Moses

John Moses is a former Charlotter and a musical host of The Lab, a radio show on KCRW in Los Angeles (an NPR affiliate). You can email John at: [email protected].

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Tunes to Tune Into

The band World Brain will get your feet moving before you know it.

Artwork by Alison Rosenfeld

Playlists for parties we can’t have right now

John Moses

The Charlotte News would like to remind the community to

SUPPORT

BUSINESSESLOCAL


Jenna Mazur, dressed in green to represent the Green Mountains of Vermont, was recently crowned Mrs. Charlotte. She will compete in the state pageant for the title of Mrs. Vermont on July 10 in Brandon, Vt. The winner will compete in the Mrs. America pageant in Las Vegas.

Mazur decided to enter the competition in order to continue a life-long commitment to community service and becoming her best self by helping others.

“I believe in the power of connection,” she said. “Connecting with other people has helped me overcome obstacles in my life and having the opportunity to meet others in the role of Mrs. Vermont would enable me to shine my light even farther outward.”

Mazur said she hopes that her own experience in handling and overcoming mental health issues will inspire others. “I keep persevering, and I have learned that being open to talking about this has been the best medicine for me. I have also learned that one cannot judge, as everyone has a past and a story. I believe sharing my

personal story may help others and together we are stronger women, and people, by learning we are not alone.”

People

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SportsSpring sports season canceled

The Vermont High School Principals Association has canceled the current spring season sports due to the governor’s

order for residents to stay home. The sports are baseball, softball, lacrosse, tennis, track and field, ultimate frisbee and unified basketball. The last state championship to be played was the March 11 Division I men’s hockey. Fall sports seasons have yet to be determined.

All-star rosters named

Even though the games themselves have been canceled or tentatively re-scheduled, the team rosters have been named and include a number of CVU athletes. The

45th Lions Twin State Soccer Cup pitting Vermont against New Hampshire will not be played as scheduled. The Vermont rosters had Redhawk girls Gillian Magnier and Shelby Statton; the boys team showed CVU’s Jonah Roberts, Erik Stolen and Cullen Swett. The boys head coach was CVU’s Rob Cole assisted by Andy Borah.

The Make-a-Wish All-star Hockey classic has been going for nearly 30 years—23 of them containing a women’s game as well as a men’s. It is still on the books for June 27 at Stowe Arena despite concerns over the coronavirus pandemic and the governor’s orders to cancel events that would draw crowds. The combined Mt. Mansfield/CVU women’s team contributes Nicole Wright to the Vermont roster. The men’s team has James Bernicke, who also received “Honorable Mention” on the Burlington Free Press all-star roster.

Edd Merritt


“I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is

the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing

a lot. I believe in being strong when everything

seems to be going wrong. . . I believe that tomorrow

is another day, and I believe in miracles.”

Audrey Hepburn

Ah, the Hepburn ladies—both very different and very special. I wonder what Katherine Hepburn would have said she believed in. So, how could you rewrite that quote to fit yourself? Yours could be playful like Ms. Hepburn’s—or more serious. These days, there is plenty of time to reflect, consider and note what you have always left unspoken, even to friends and family. You can be serious or have some fun with it!

What are your values? You might mention friendship, honesty or patience, but are there any that are unique to you? Take the time to be specific. If you haven’t already seen them from years ago, there are the books This I Believe, and This I Believe, Part II. They might give you some ideas on how to approach the challenge. If you have a computer, you can also find this series online at NPR.org. Although the recent quiet around us will start to disappear soon, we are likely to still have “more time” to devote to this than we did in the past. This project can go on as long as you wish.

Caveat: Much as I like the quote above, it bears remembering that the very nature of a miracle makes it something which cannot be expected to happen—that would be akin to magical thinking. The unexpected, miraculous nature of a miracle is what makes it a miracle!

______________

One of the synonyms for “miraculous” is “incredible.” And so, it is miraculous—cum incredible—how gracefully our instructors at the Senior Center have pivoted to the online Zoom format for their classes during the quarantine. This is no small thing, and it can be hard to appreciate if you have never tried to teach a subject. With conversion to an online class, there is the patience required when grappling with the technical reality, as well as the level of flexibility and creative challenge of presenting courses while you are, essentially, alone.

Although it may be hard to believe, most of the instructors at the Senior Center have been here for more than 10 years, and they really like what they do as much as they like their students. What’s really wonderful is that all embody an ideal image of what aging can look like when you stay active, physically or mentally. Now that we are staying closer to home, it’s a great time to consider the ongoing exercise courses. Please visit our website CharlotteSeniorCenterVT.org, and click on Online Courses for a list of them.

One of the Senior Center’s newest instructors is Nicole Librandi who started last fall; she has taught Italian at Middlebury College and Elon University (NC), among other institutions. Although she has studied a few Romance languages, she is very taken with the flow of Italian and its intrinsic poetry and mode of expression. Nicole takes pleasure in the learning experience along with her students and focuses on fun, hands-on learning using props and visuals to make things concrete. Singing and food are often important parts of her classes, and she is figuring out how to do this while in quarantine.

While it’s true that we probably will not be traveling to Italy in the near future, there is always Italian food, wine and opera to enjoy. Plus, studying a language is very much like taking a trip without having to pay for the plane fare.

Starting on 5/29, Nicole will be offering two Zoom courses in Italian:

Italian Intro, starts on 5/29 for six Friday afternoons, from 1– 2 o’clock. If you’ve never studied Italian, or if your knowledge of the language is “rusty,” this class is for you! Have fun with the Italian language and culture together, through basic conversation and virtual tours of Italian art, music, style and cuisine. Class size is limited, so please register by 5/26 for the six-week course. (See below for how to register.) The suggested fee is $30, but donations of any amount are accepted.

Italian Refresher, starts on 5/29 for six Friday afternoons from 2:15 – 3:15. Join this class to refresh your knowledge of Italian through conversation and grammar updates. Enjoy Italy—virtually—as you practice Italiano in conversation, games and song: think musica, bellissimo, pasta, Roma, Venezia, etc. Class size is limited, so please register by 5/26 for the six-week course. (See

below for how to register.) The suggested fee is $30, but donations of any amount are accepted.

How to register for a Zoom course: Please email your name, address, phone number, and name of the course you want to take to [email protected]. You will receive a confirmation that you are enrolled. Pre-payment is requested; checks should be made out to CSC and mailed to P.O. Box 207, Charlotte, VT 05445. If you have any questions, please send them to: [email protected], or leave a message at (802) 425-6345.

Meanwhile, the Gents Breakfast (that’s right, no apostrophe) has stopped cooking breakfast and is now Zooming their gatherings on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. What is also noteworthy is that the meeting time has changed from 7 a.m. to a much more reasonable start of 8 a.m. The email list has dozens of names, and 15-18 gents make an appearance each week. Over the years, the group has gone from using a fold-up projector screen, to a desktop screen, to a high definition wall-mounted screen for their videos and PowerPoint presentations. But really, the group is more about the relaxed exchange of information, ideas and experiences.

They have heard about the history of medical imaging, public health, climate change, long-distance sailboat racing—and this week is the story of a several-day trip to Yellowstone last March. The topics are usually scheduled in advance—but not always—and spontaneous discussion can happen also, with a designated “share chair.” Bob Chutter and Dale Hyerstay

have been shepherding it along for quite some time, and it’s a welcoming, friendly group with a wealth of different backgrounds, education, and experience.

If this sounds good to you, please email [email protected] and indicate that you are interested in the Gents Breakfast. You will receive a confirmation and a Zoom invitation to the next meeting. There is no fee, and no commitment is required, so you can come on the weeks you wish.

______________

The Senior Center’s mission is to serve those 50 and up. Residents from other communities are always welcome. There are no membership fees. Feel free to leave a message on the Center number anytime: 425-6345; voicemail is checked daily.

Be careful. Stay well. But mostly, be kind.

______________

Charlotte Senior Center802-425-6345

Charlotte Senior Center

Carolyn KulikSENIOR CENTER

DIRECTOR

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Go inside a stone.That would be my way.Let someone else become a doveOr gnash with a tiger’s tooth.I am happy to be a stone.

From the outside the stone is a riddle:No one knows how to answer it.Yet within, it must be cool and quietEven though a cow steps on it full weight,Even though a child throws it into the river;The stone sinks, slow, unperturbedTo the river bottomWhere the fishes come to knock on itAnd listen.

I have seen sparks fly outWhen two stones are rubbed,So perhaps it is not dark inside after all;Perhaps there is a moon shiningFrom somewhere, as though behind a hill—Just enough light to make outThe strange writing, the star-chartsOn the inner walls.

“Stone,” Charles Simic


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Want a great start to 2020?LET LAFAYETTE PAINTING will give your home a beautiful, fresh look. Our painters can do a lot in a day.Lafayettepaintinginc.Com or call 863-5397 to hear about our winter discount.

The Charlotte News is looking for a few DRIVERS TO VOLUNTEER THEIR TIME on the day our newspapers are issued to help drop them at various locations within Charlotte, Shelburne, Ferrisburgh

and Hinesburg. If you have some spare time and want to help distribute our local newspaper please send an email to [email protected].

MCCAFFREY’S SHAMROCK PAINTING Interior and exterior work, lift certified, clean, neat work, decent rates, 35+ years experience. If you are serious about wanting paint work done, call us for an estimate. 802-877-2172

GARDENING - Husband and wife team, over ten years of experience centered on holistic and ecological practices. Pruning, cleaning, planting, design and redesign consultations, personalized hands-on education (cultivate the confidence to lend the land!) Call or text 802-318-5365, [email protected]

Reach your friends and neighbors for only $12 per issue. (Payment must be sent before issue date.) Please limit your ad to 35 words or fewer and send it to The Charlotte News Classifieds,

P.O. Box 251, Charlotte, VT 05445 or email [email protected].

Classifieds

TOWN OF CHARLOTTEREQUEST FOR BIDS FOR TRAIL CONSTRUCTION

The Request for Bids can be viewed at www.charlottevt.org and can also be obtained by contacting Dean Bloch, Town Administrator, at dean@

townofcharlotte.com or 425-3071 ext. 5.

Sealed bids are due by Monday, June 8, 2020 @ 6 p.m.A mandatory site visit will be held on Wednesday, May 20, at 9 a.m.

Bids are to be mailed or hand delivered to: Dean Bloch, Town Administrator, Charlotte Town Office, 159 Ferry Road, P.O. Box 119, Charlotte, VT 05445—

envelopes should be labeled “Trail Construction Bid.” If hand delivering, use the mail slot to the right of the front door.

TOWN OF CHARLOTTEIS ISSUING A REQUEST FOR

PAVING BIDS

The Request for Bids can be viewed at www.charlottevt.org and can also be obtained by contacting Dean Bloch, Town Administrator, at dean@townofcharlotte.

com or 425-3071 ext. 5.

Sealed bids are due by Tuesday, May 26, 2020 @ 4 p.m.

Mailed or hand delivered to: Dean Bloch, Town Administrator, Charlotte Town Office, 159 Ferry Road, P.O. Box 119, Charlotte, VT 05445—envelopes should be labeled

“Paving Bid.” If hand delivering, use the mail slot to the right of the front door.

The Town of Charlotte reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids for any reason, and may not necessarily select the lowest bid.

THE TOWN OF CHARLOTTE, VERMONTNOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGTO MODIFY SCENIC ROADS

Notice is hereby given pursuant to the standards and rules adopted by the Vermont Transportation Board that the Selectboard of the Town of Charlotte will hold a public hearing to consider modifications to Roscoe Road and Monkton Road, both of which are designated Scenic Roads under 19 V.S.A. 2502, on Tuesday May 26, 2020 at 6:10 p.m. The public hearing will be held either at the Charlotte Town Office or remotely, in which case an internet link and phone number will be provided on the meeting agenda.

The hearing’s purpose is to discuss the effects of a proposed modification and the possibility that the modification would result in the removal of the roads from the scenic classification.

The proposed modifications to Roscoe Road (TH 39) and Monkton Road (TH 36) consist of paving the aprons on north and south ends of the Seguin Bridge, aka Rule Bridge (CB 28 ) and on the east end of the Quinlan Bridge (CB 29). The proposed paved aprons are to be the width of the existing traveled roadway and a length of approximately 50 feet from the end of each bridge.

Public comments can be provided at the hearing, or they can be submitted in advance of the hearing to:

Dean Bloch, Town [email protected]. Box 119159 Ferry RoadCharlotte, VT 05445

NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS

Agreeably to the provisions of Title 32, Vermont Statutes Annotated, section 4111, notice is hereby given that the undersigned assessor within and for the Town of Charlotte has this day completed the abstract of property owners as of the first day of April, 2020. The assessor has this same day lodged the abstract in the Office of the Clerk for the inspection of taxpayers.

On the 21st day of May, 2020, at 8 a.m. the undersigned assessor will meet at Town Hall to hear appeals of the taxpayer aggrieved by actions of the assessor from whom timely grievances have been received.

To be timely, such grievances must be in writing and received (postmarks not accepted) by the 20th day of May 2020.

At the close of grievance hearings, the assessor shall make such corrections in the abstract as were determined upon hearings or otherwise. Unless cause to the contrary is shown, the contents of said abstract will, for the tax year 2020, become the grand list of the town of each taxpayer named therein.

Signed at Charlotte Town Hall, in the County of Chittenden this 27th day of April 2020.

Assessor of the Town of CharlotteBetsy R Tegatz

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Thursday, May 14, 2020 | Volume LXII Number 22

Charlotte News Charlotte News Your nonprofit community news source since 1958

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