Dr. John O’Meara, Saint Michael's College assistant professor of physics, learned last week that he and five colleagues from around the country have received a $474,617 grant from NASA, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, to carry out a study of galaxies and their halos. Professor O’Meara’s portion of the grant is $46,983.

“Our work tries ultimately to answer the question: Where do galaxies get the material they need to form stars?” Dr. O’Meara said.

College of St. Joseph is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristie Johnson as the New Business Manager at the College. Kristie began her career with the College of St. Joseph in September 1993 as the Student Financial Services Coordinator. Since 1996, she has been the Controller at the College, as well as an adjunct professor since 2000, teaching courses in Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Business Math, Financial Statement Analysis, and Auditing.

Former Boston chef John Delpha and wife Caitlin Bilodeau have opened a new restaurant, The Belted Cow Bistro, to much fanfare in Vermont. Delpha can boast culinary awards ranging from a two time chef choice winner at the world barbeque championships to holding the Executive Chef position at not one but four of Boston’s most acclaimed restaurants (La Campania, Sorellina, Harvest and Mistral).

Toastmasters of Greater Burlington announces the election of the following members as officers of the chapter’s board of directors:

President - Jamie Magowan of Winooski is a tour development specialist for Notch Above Tours of Colchester. He is also a weekend announcer for 98.9 WOKO, KOOL 105, and WJOY.

Secretary - Christopher Halpin of Essex Junction is an attorney and recent graduate of the Chittenden Central Supervisory Union's Teacher Apprenticeship Program. He has a private law practice and works at Essex High School.