06/10

Wallingford News June 2010

Editor’s Note: Please send news, ads, and items of interest by 6/24 to townclerk@wallingfordvt.com.

Support the Wallingford Newsletter with an ad in the Wallingford News. Rates are $50 for a business card size ad and $75 for a double ad. Your ad will run for 12 issues. For more information, call the Town Clerk's Office at 446-2336. Do you have a used car, boat or services to sell? A one-month ad, 25 words or less is $5. Is there anything you’d like added to the newsletter? Let us know. Issues of the newsletter can be mailed to you if you provide us with the self-addressed stamped envelopes (with 61¢ postage on each). The newsletter is also on the Web at www.wallingfordvt.com.

Route 140E Road Work Planned Through June 15th
The Vermont Department of Transportation is now reconstructing about 800’ of roadway starting just past Bear Mountain Road and going East for about 800’. The road will be closed and then re-opened at some point to local traffic only. Call 773-1384 with questions.

Did you know that the Wallingford Town Clerk’s office is a Passport Acceptance Facility? You can apply for a passport or pick up applications at the Wallingford Town Clerk’s Office during regular business hours (Mon-Thu 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fri 8 a.m. to Noon. Call 446-2336 for further information.

Elfin Lake Swimmers
Hurry in to the Town Clerk’s office to buy your family pass for the 2010 season at a discounted price! Wallingford Residents: Family pass: $50 purchased by 5/28; $65 after 5/28. Non Residents: Family pass $60 purchased by 5/28; $75 after 5/28.

Green Mountain Passports
With the upcoming vacation season, I’d like to remind those who are qualified about the Green Mountain Passport, a discount program for seniors and veterans with disabilities. To be eligible, a person must be a resident of Vermont and: at least 62 years old or totally disabled as a result of disease or injury suffered while serving in the Armed Forces or a resident of the Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington. Use your passport for free admission to state parks, state historic sites, and events which are fully state- sponsored. To receive a Green Mountain Passport, fill out an application at the Town Clerk’s office and pay a $2 fee.

Summer Recreation Program
This program is offered to children who have completed kindergarten through sixth grade. The program will run the weeks of June 21, June 28, July 26, August 2, and August 9. Hours of operation will be 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., Monday-Friday. Weekly fee is $60 per child (you choose the week) plus a one-time registration fee of $25. Registration is limited to 40 children per week. For questions, call Kim or Cheryl Maniery at 770-8122.

The Town is offering five (5) scholarships (one-week each) for the summer recreation program for any Wallingford child whose family is unable to afford the weekly registration fee. Contact Joyce Barbieri at 446-2336 to apply. Financial information may be requested.

Wallingford Memorial Day Parade-Monday, May 31^st at 10 a.m.
Anyone interested in marching in the parade (Monday, May 31^st) should line up at True Temper at 9:45 a.m. Parade starts at True Temper and goes south to the Green Hill Cemetery on Route 7. (In case of rain, ceremony will be held at the Wallingford Elementary School.) Questions, call Keith Shelvey at 446-2399.

Auditor, Conservation Commission, Planning Commission and Recreation Committee Vacancies – please volunteer. Contact the Town Hall at 446-2872.

{Please note that these meeting minutes are a brief summary and are not the final approved version.}

Selectboard

Selectboard approval given to 1) establish a moratorium on all digging and dumping at the “pit”; 2) prohibit gun use and motorized vehicles in the “pit”; and 3) add Jill Burkett and Jack Tally as RDC members at the request of the Recreation Development Committee.

The lowest bidder, King Cutters Lawn Care & Snowplowing was chosen for lawn mowing.

Upon the recommendation of the Recreation Committee, Kim Maniery, Dominick Maniery, Steve Culbertson and Stephanie Pelletier were hired for summer rec. Stephanie Gould was also hired as an alternate. Jesse Doiron and Andrew Imhof were hired as lifeguards.

DRB Chair Ed Crelin gave his opinion regarding the accuracy of the FEMA remapping and discussed the latest letter he prepared for the Selectboard’s review.

B. Brooks gave a status report on last week’s gathering of Meacham Street residents concerning the water run off.

J. Barbieri discussed the Fernfields Farms and Ralph Stafford income budgeted in this fiscal year.

The Selectboard approved the announcements of summer recreation program scholarship availability.

J. Gilman gave an update on the master plan for the pit. The Selectboard approved having the road crew: 1) grade the Waldo Lane parking lot; 2) stockpile excess material and/or crushed stone at the park to bridge trail; and 3) move the concrete piles in the pit to the crater.

E. Wallingford resident Bonnie MacPherson came to discuss the condition of her driveway.

The Selectboard reviewed the statutes pertaining to the authority to regulate activities on the town’s properties.

The three quotes received for hauling gravel to Wallingford Pond Road were reviewed.

The clerk’s 10-year old photocopier died. The Selectboard approved purchasing a Kyocera CS-2050 from Vermont Digital.

J. Barbieri discussed the Fernfield Farms and Ralph Stafford Scholarship investment funds.

Steve Spatz summarized his findings from the energy audit performed at the town garage. The biggest problem is the heat loss due to the insufficient insulation. Immediate improvements recommended: 1) upgrade inefficient lighting and out-dated electrical; 2) replace the existing overhead doors with insulated units and new operators; and 3) replace the ceiling fans to re-circulate the heat. Steve reported that lighting rebates are available through Efficiency Vermont.

Rec Committee member Tom Phillips submitted a bill from Phil Baker for top soil for the lake, reported that the grass seed for the lake has been donated and that the Committee approved paying a youth group $180 to perform some landscaping next month.

Approval was given for caterer permits for Noel’s for two weddings and a permanent outside consumption permit for the White Rocks Inn.

Approval was given to CVPS to locate utility lines within the right of way on Hillside Road and Olde Pine Lane.

At the recommendation of the Planning Commission Chair John West, the Selectboard approved writing to local, state and federal officials questioning the accuracy of the new FEMA mapping.

The Planning Commission requested an extension of the regulations that expire in June. The Selectboard agreed to schedule a Public Hearing on June 7 for the purpose of extending the Interim Bylaw Flood Hazard Area Regulations

VTrans has recommended the Town’s highway grant application to Montpelier for final approval for paving a portion of Route 140W.

VTrans will be working on Route 140E near Bear Mountain Road in June. The road will be closed and then reopened to local traffic only during the month.

The Board approved using our temporary winter highway worker for two weeks while one highway worker is on vacation in June.

Joyce asked for an update on the meeting to be scheduled with the Trustees of Public Funds regarding the investment funds.

Merger- Yes or No??????
Wallingford Fire District #1 voters: do you want the Town to pursue merging with the fire district so that residents outside of the district (excluding East Wallingford) would be able to vote on the fire protection budget? If so, we need to see some support. Please read the first draft of the merger agreement at www.wallingfordvt.com and send in your signed comments. Also, we encourage you to communicate with the Prudential Committee by the attending their meetings normally on the 2^nd and 4^th Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Wallingford Fire Department. Thank you.

The Town of Wallingford’s interim flood regulations were discussed. It was decided that the interim regulations be revised to incorporate requested revisions as presented by Rebecca Pfeiffer, VT DEC.

Development Review Board

Public Hearing for William Lohsen,
Permit # 06-10. 2 lot subdivision: 15.3 acres to be Lot 1 of 12.55 acres and Lot 2 of 2.75 acres, which is to be serviced by a shared 20’ wide Right of Way located at 1934 Rte 140W, Wallingford. Application, Site plan and State of Vermont Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Permit WW-1-2093 were reviewed. Subdivision approved.

Public Hearing for Chipman Lodge #52, F&AM / Kids’ Cove of Wallingford, Inc., Permit # 07-10 to change in use of existing Masonic Lodge Building located at 65 Main Street, Wallingford, VT. Use of the lower floor is proposed as preschool / daycare facility to service up to 45 children with 7 staff. A perimeter fence is also proposed. E. Crelin noted that the Flood Hazard Area “check box” on the application was not completed.

E. Crelin stated that the Plot Plan submitted was inadequate as it did not provide specifics on items such as fencing, parking and future curb cut. He indicated that permits have been issued contingent upon certain approvals etc. but as submitted there are too many items unclear.

E. Crelin stated that the Flood Hazard Area was of concern and would need to be addressed such as 1^st floor elevations etc.

E. Crelin stated that a concrete parking plan, curb cut issue and shared drive and flood concerns would need to be addressed.

Larry Miller stated that a supplement plan dealing with the outstanding issues would be required.

The hearing will be continued to May 20^th to provide the applicant time to address/clarify the outstanding issues.

Prudential Committee

The tables and chairs for the lodge have been ordered and should arrive shortly.

Maureen reported there is a fireman willing to help Mark by doing the anti seize on the hydrants that Dale had started before getting injured. He also offered to mow the lawn at the sewer plant until Dale can return to work.

The board decided to ask Alicia Sharp if she would serve on the Scholarship Committee year to represent the Prudential Committee.

Maureen announced that the Fire Dept had received a grant for equipment and gear for $89,805 and will be ordering the items shortly. The board wanted to give a big Thank You to Stephane Goulet for all his work in writing up the grants.

Maureen brought a note from Gwenn West about the compliance of the Operation and Maintenance Manual with the State. Gwenn has been working on this and asked the board whether to finish it or have the office do this. The Board approved having her finish it.

Bill Brooks came to answer questions the board had about the draft merger agreement.

Maureen gave the board a copy of the bids that the town received for the mowing their properties. Since the Fire District owns its equipment, they approved hiring Jeremy Duchesne to help until Dale can return.

The board felt, after reading over the draft of the merger, that things were being done backwards as there was no plan in place yet. Scott does not feel at this time that it is in the best interest of the fire district to merge with the town. The board did not feel that this could in any way be settled by the next annual meeting, as there are still so many little details that are not worked out at this time.

Jeff Duchesne asked that the stuff from the lodge that is stored at station #2 be taken out as the fire department is working on cleaning up that station. He also received approval to apply for another AFG grant for equipment as this may be the last year to apply for a while.

Maureen asked for a response to the Selectboard’s memo regarding the fire protection budget. 1) Q: As discussed at the FD#1 Annual Meeting, how much of this grant funding can be used to reduce the 2011 Fire Protection Budget that will be billed out to taxpayers in August?

A: None of the grant money will be used to reduce the budget as the items are things that are over the cost of what is in the voted budget amount of $129,978 for 2011.

2) Q: How much money was received from the sale of the air packs and will this money be used to reduce the 2011 Fire Protection Budget accordingly? A: The air packs were sold for $3,000 with half belonging to the fire dept. The other half for the district was used to offset a bill that the fire dept. themselves paid, which should have come out of the Fire Protection Budget. So that money will not be used to reduce the 2011 budget.

3) Q: Will any of the equipment being replaced due to the grant funds be sold and if so, will this money be used to reduce the 2011 Fire Protection Budget. A: There will not be any equipment sold, as the grant money is being used to buy things that they do not already have and did not ask to have in their budget to purchase to help keep the budget total down as much as possible. So, therefore this will not reduce the 2011 Fire Protection Budget.

Jim reported a tree fell on the power lines causing a power surge that fried everything electrical, including the furnace. The Board approved having Irving repair the furnace.

The Board turned down a request by the Town to cover one fourth of the cost ($50) for lake water testing, as it should be part of the Recreation budget.

The group will plan a summer meeting at someone’s house to brainstorm a strategic plan.

Kim and Shannon will work on a draft for the town plan for review by the rest of the commission.

Kim developed a newsletter article on invasive plants for the May newsletter. Ralph will write the next article, which he plans to call “Look who’s hanging out” and include photos of various clotheslines.

GREEN UP DAY
Wallingford had another successful Green Up Day effort with approximately 75 to 100 participants collecting over 135 bags of trash, 10 tires, 2 TV’s and other miscellaneous treasures. Volunteers included the Elementary School children scouring the village on Friday and then Rotarians and the Conservation Commission handing out bags and directing people from the Rotary Building on Saturday. Many townspeople go out on their own even on another day or on a regular basis. There seemed to be an extraordinary effort along Waldo Lane and in Stone Meadow Park (the old gravel pit) now that the Selectboard has imposed restrictions on dumping, shooting and motorized vehicles. Plans are underway to clean up the piles of debris and create a safe path from the new pedestrian bridge to the beach on Elfin Lake for this season. Future plans include nature trails, a picnic area and other activities. The Conservation Commission is already considering events for next year’s Green Up Day, such as prizes, awards, activities, etc., to make it better than ever.

Recreation Committee

04/14/10. K. Shelvey, L. Marchinkoski, T. Phillips, T. Petrossi, and J. Osmer

The committee reviewed lifeguard applications. J. Gilman recommended that that the proposed director position for the lake not be put in place and that the town clerk office employees oversee the lake operations.

The Recreation Committee will recommend to the Selectboard to hire lifeguards Jesse Doiron and Andy Imhof.

Tony shared grills that he can make costing $75 each. The Recreation Committee approved putting three grills at the lake and one at the recreation field. An Elfin Lake pass will be given to Tony Petrossi for making the grills and all his other work at the Lake and a pass will be given to Ray Petrossi for the use of his tools.

Tony shared there are teenagers at his church who are willing to do work for a donation. The Recreation Committee approved allowing IBC Youth Group to perform volunteer work at the lake for a donation of $180.

We will need 200 pounds of grass seed and six bales of straw for seeding at the lake. Keith and Tom will look into costs for this.

Quotes have been received from r.k. Miles and Drywall Center for new doors for the building at the lake.

The Recreation Committee recommends that Kim Maniery, Dominic Maniery, and Steve Culbertson be re-hired for the Summer Recreation Program, and also Stephanie Pellitier for the summer counselor position and Stephanie Gould as an alternate.

Recreation Development Committee

04/23/10. J. Gilman, C. Macleod, R. Nimtz, D. Scranton, J. Tally, J. Burkett, and K. Shelvey

Jill reported that Mill River seniors must do a certain number of “community” hours. This can be a resource to tap once we have come up with actual work plans.

Specific work projects will be developed for presentation to the Selectboard in order to get help from the road crew. Josh reported that the Selectboard would have signs installed for “no dumping”, “no discharging of firearms” and “no motorized vehicles”. The committee also suggested placing “Pedestrian Crossing” signs at the bridge-parking lot area.

The Committee is meeting May 2nd to lay out the continuation of the path from the new bridge to the basketball court. We will also use this as a work preparation meeting and come up with specific jobs to be accomplished with a clear, written plan for exactly how the work will be conducted.

The date for the construction of the water garden at the beach has been pushed back to begin work late summer/early fall.

Energy Committee

04/05/10. K. Welch, E. Safford, J. White, J. Barbieri, D. Blodgett and T. Chila

Tim has school site assessment report, but no thermal issues are included. Tim will follow up.

We still need data from Wallingford Fire Department. Tim will ask Selectboard about doing an audit on town hall, which will be free.

Tim found the existing narrative on energy in our town plan but this section should be expanded, according to Tim.

We’ve completed 9 house energy audits with some houses signed up in the pipeline.

Tim talked with Jason Smith about a student CFL sale, who suggested to Tim to talk with Odyssey of the Mind folks about a potential fundraiser for their trip. Joyce will follow up. Tony could supply bulbs up front and then we’ll pay him back.

Changing the Town hall water heater from a 40-gal. electric storage tank to on-demand electric system doesn’t seem like a very good idea $$ wise.

Ken went to a workshop on “Property Assessed Community Energy District” - it’s a mechanism for a town to create an “energy district” in town - then the town can request a bond and the users can pay back their loans via their tax bills. Burlington has this, but it may be very challenging to set up in a small town.

Wallingford Elementary School

05/06/10. Present: K. Fredette, D. Klock, C. Piotrowski, P. Rondinone, and C. Watts

Chuck W. shared policy review of VSBA recommended and state required policies and WES policies and noted gaps.

The Board discussed the need for an air compressor. Walter noted outstanding WES financial obligations including payment of a WES teacher settlement. Ken noted that if the air compressor was to fail there may be dire consequences for the school including school closure. The Board approved the purchase.

Jason met with Kids Cove representatives – new opening date expected August 1^st.

Jason noted that the federal government has changed regulations on food service. This change requires WES to go out to bid for food service contract next year.

Mill River school board wants to meet with elementary representatives regarding union negotiations.

South Wallingford Water Committee received approval to access the water line running through Little Red School House property.

Auditors sent projected cost for next year of $3400 (up 9% from last year’s $3100).

VSBIT recommends that letters of employment for support staff be used rather than contracts. The Board approved issuing letters of employment in lieu of contracts to support staff with salary increases as budgeted.

Chuck W. noted that a tentative agreement was reached with the Wallingford Teachers Association and the contract is being reviewed by lawyers.

“Wallingford Seniors Happenings”

Foot and blood pressure clinic on Wednesday, June 2nd at 10:30 a.m. at the Wallingford House.

Our next Planning meeting will be Wednesday, June 9th at 10 a.m. at the Town Hall. We hope to see some new faces and we could use your input.

Our Seniors Trip for June will be Thursday, June 10^th. Bus leaves Wallingford House at 10:45 a.m. Lunch will be at the Senior Center ($3) in Manchester and then tours ($5-10) at the Lincoln Family Estate and lots of activities. We’ll stop at the Wallingford organic farmstand in Manchester and Friendly’s for ice cream and shopping at adjoining stores. Call Gwen West at 446-3875 to sign up.

Remember Senior’s lunch every Monday at Noon at the Rotary. Contact Linda Weightman at 446-2301.

We will hold bingo on the 2nd Monday of each month at the Rotary building at 1 p.m. The public is welcome.

Well…… spring took it’s time in getting here but it was well worth the wait! Days are cool, mostly sunny, sometimes wet, and very, VERY green! Gorgeous flowers and colorful birds make for delightful days! Life is good except, perhaps, for the insects that are intent on bugging and being real pests AND they seem to know just when your arms are full!

Speaking of full, the Gilbert Hart Library staff and Board of Trustees are full of gratitude for the response we have received to the fund-raising and membership drive letter. The Library has received donations from Wallingford residents, the surrounding communities, and out-of-town patrons who frequent the library during the summer months. In times of economic hardship, people turn to and depend on their libraries. Libraries are part of the solution when a community is struggling economically. Libraries are unique. Where else can you have access to nearly anything in print, on CD, DVD, or the Web – as well as personal service and assistance in finding it? Your library! If you have not made a donation, we welcome and encourage your support!

The Library and Board of Trustees would also like to thank the Thrive Center for their recent donation to the library. We received a percentage of the proceeds from the Winter YOGA program. We really appreciate it Dr. Joe & Lisa! Thank you!!!!

Monetary donations are not the only donations welcomed at the Library. Magazine gift subscriptions are another way to make a donation. Currently the gift subscriptions we are receiving include Down East and Eating Well. If you would like to give a magazine gift subscription, please call me at the Library, and I can tell you the magazines we are currently receiving.

Also, videos (DVD and VHS), music, puzzles, hard cover books would be appreciated. There are only three requirements: (1) all donated items must be in good condition; (2) donations must be dropped off when the library is OPEN; and (3) we be allowed to sale the items that are not added to our collection. Just give me a call at 446-2685 if you have any questions or would like to make a donation.

Children’s Program – Saturday, June 5, 2010 – 10:30 a.m. – noon. Join Kate Goetz and Sherry Mayo, the new Library Assistant, as they help the kids sculpt their own ceramic turtles! Join the fun!!!! Call the library at 446-2685 for more information.

The Gilbert Hart Library needs a bookkeeper -- someone who will, for a small stipend, perform the following duties:

If you are interested, please stop by the Library or contact Linda Reeves or Connie Johnson at 446-2685 for more information. This is a great opportunity to give something back to the community and get paid doing it!

Family fun in Vermont State Parks and Vermont’s historic sites!! The Vermont State Parks “Check out the Parks” pass has arrived. This year the pass has been expanded to include Vermont’s historic sites. The pass is FREE to our library patrons. The State parks pass admits one vehicle holding up to eight people to a Vermont state park for one day. The historic sites pass will admit 1 family or groups of up to 8 people. The passes have a value of $80 so it’s a great deal! As each Vermont library received only 1 of each pass, either pass may be borrowed for no more than 3 days at any given time. This is to allow as many people as possible to use them. Stop by or call the library to reserve the pass or if you have questions (446-2685).

Echo Pass: Most folks are familiar with the Echo Lake Aquarium and Science Center, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, located on the Burlington Waterfront. I mentioned the Pass in last month’s Wallingford Newsletter but some folks missed the information and asked me to include it again this month. The Echo Pass will admit up to two adults and three youth for $2 each – nice savings! The idea is “BORROW A BOOK. BORROW THE PASS” -- an easy commitment. Next time you plan to visit the Burlington waterfront, stop in and check out a book and pick up the pass. You won’t regret it!

Book Review: Trevor’s Song the Miraculous True Story of a Tragic Farm Accident, a Father’s Love, and One Boy’s Leap of Faith is a true story. The book was written by T. A. Beam. The story is about an energetic, athletic 8-year-old boy named Trevor who was the first one to the finish line and the last one in bed. He loved to run, leap, and race anyone who was willing, and he was an eager worker always determined to get the job done. Then, on a cold winter morning on his family’s Pennsylvania farm, Trevor made one false step inside a harvester wagon. His bulky winter jacket was snagged in the machinery and he was pulled through spiked bars that should have killed him instantly. Both legs seemingly mangled beyond repair—one even was slated for immediate amputation. A spike missed his heart by less than an inch and another gouged a deep gash in his head. His father found him slumped lifeless over the spiked bars and it seemed that his son had died in his arms.

This is an amazing story of a little boy who defied everyone’s expectations; a little boy who lived when he should have died and who walked when he should have been crippled. You will meet an earthly father who refused to give up. This is an “unforgettable true story of one little boy’s leap of faith from tragedy to triumph!” Just seeing Trevor’s face with his lovely smile pictured on the front of the book is worth checking it out!

Linda Reeves, Library Director
Sherry Mayo, Assistant
Telephone: 446-2685

NEW Library Hours

Sunday - closed
Monday - closed
Tuesday -10:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday - 10:00 – 8 p.m.
Thursday - 10:00 – 6 p.m.
Friday - 10:00 – 5 p.m.
Saturday - closed (except for 1^st Saturday of every month) 1^st Saturday - 9 - 12

Gilbert Hart Library Board of Trustees Meeting - April 13, 2010

Present : Linda Reeves, Clare Bornarth, Adrian Eisler, Connie Johnson, Lois Johnstone, Bert Jones

Community members attending: Betty and Don Emery, Doug Reeves, Kelly DiIonno, and Carol Pratt.

Secretary’s Report: Minutes of the March meeting were shared. Corrections and additions were made and accepted.

Linda stated that the Secretary’s Minutes should be revised to include her comments made at the March 2010 Board meeting that money raised by the Friends on behalf of the library and under the library’s non-profit status (501 (c) (3)) should be used to reduce the deficit. Approximately $16,000 in the Merchants Bank and UBS accounts is not being used to help the library during this very difficult financial period. The library expects to have a deficit of over $10,000. The funds should be used to reduce/eliminate the deficit. The Board did not support this request.

Members of the public who were attending the meeting asked questions concerning the funds raised by the Friends. There was a lengthy discussion and varying points of views were stated. Some of the public asked why the money raised on behalf of the library was not being spent to help the library but left sitting in bank accounts. Comments were made that the amount of funds in the accounts seemed excessive and that the money should be used to help the library.

Representatives from the Friends stated they money was being “saved for a rainy day.”

Members of the Board also expressed different views about the disposition of the funds in the Friends account, but no decisions were made.

Library Director’s Report: Linda’s report was shared with the public and had been read by board members online. She announced a new assistant librarian has been hired, and Sherry Mayo will officially begin on May 19^th. There has been approximately $4,700 received to date from the board’s annual letter asking for support from patrons.

Financial Report: No spread sheet for the month as Zora is still out of town. An earlier IRS refund needed to be returned along with a late payment penalty.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Building and Grounds: nothing to report
b. Finance: there was continuing discussion about the need to cut costs and increase revenue in an effort to reduce the deficit. Adrian will ask Pat C. to come to our next board meeting to review the status of our financial accounts.
c. Children and Young Adults: Kevin, David and Katie Goetz are planning a children’s pottery making program for June 5^th. The Friends will be asked to consider helping support ongoing children’s projects.
d. Friends’ Report:.Friends Whist continues every other Friday night. The next book discussion - “Rebecca”, is scheduled for Wednesday, May 19^th at 7:00. The annual plant sale will be held Sat. May 22^nd from 9-noon. The Friends will help with the trustees Early Summer Garden Tour library fund-raiser on June 26.

Old Business: ongoing discussion continued about our need to cut costs and increase revenues in an effort to reduce our deficit. Community input was offered.

The month of May has been such a busy month, it’s hard to believe there is so little scheduled for June. I guess we’re all ready for vacation!

Whist parties will continue through the summer, however, June 11^th and 25^th being the Friday nights they are scheduled this month. If you want other summer dates, they are July 9^th and 23^rd, August 6^th and 20^th and September 3^rd and 17^th. Carol Pratt is still in charge of these at 446-2843.

The next Friends meeting is on June 9^th at 2:00 p.m. and again we will try to come up with some new ideas for Wallingford Fun Day on July 17^th. We will most certainly have a book sale, since weeding continues in the stacks. We will also solicit books from you, our patrons, as we usually do. For our tag sale, we will also ask you for whatever you wish to sell to benefit the Library. We do not do consignment sales. So you can set aside items as you are cleaning out. We don’t sell clothing as a rule. We will ask for donations after Independence Day.

The discussion on Katherine Paterson’s Day of the Pelican, which I mentioned last month, will not happen until fall. I will alert you to this when the time comes.

We have finished book discussions for this season, recalling Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier from teenage years, for many of us. A Hitchcock movie of it was also found and many of us also watched (it was very true to the book). We have decisions to make regarding next year’s plans, and need your input. So come to the next Friends’ meeting, or call Betty Emery at 446-3366.

We wish to add our voice to the promotion of the Garden Tour plus Art Show and Tea on Saturday, June 26^th. Posters are up around town giving you all the details. The cost is $15 and you will see 6 gardens in the area; the Klock Room will feature select paintings by local artists, and refreshments by the Friends. It sounds like a wonderful day. Be at the Library at 10:00 a.m. and events run to 2:00 p.m.

Events for the Maple Valley Grange #318 on Route 7 in South Wallingford……

Every Tuesday from 6-9 p.m. Line Dancing. $5 per person. Snack bar available. Beginners & experienced.

The Chipman Lodge 52 FAM holds meetings on the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Lodge.

Suicide Survivors Support Group meetings for those who have lost a loved one or friend through suicide are held at the Maple Leaf Clinic, 167 North Main Street in Wallingford (446-3577) on the third Tuesday of each month.

Lunch, Love & Laughter
Come join us for lunch at the Wallingford Congregational Church on South Main Street every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

NEW & FREE--- Krafty Kids!!!
Have lunch, laughs and make a craft. Every Thursday over summer beginning June 24^th from 12:15-1:15 p.m. at the First Congregational Church at 189 South Main Street in Wallingford. Questions, call 446-2817.

Wallingford Neighborhood Watch
If you’d like to receive emails under the Wallingford “Neighborhood Watch” system, send an email to townadmin@wallingfordvt.com and keep updated on vandalism, thefts, etc. in Wallingford and surrounding towns.

The Wallingford Historical Society lecture with Mike Bradley last summer was so interesting; we’re having him back to finish his presentation.

Get some insights into how surveys were performed decades ago. How should we evaluate their findings? And more.

Vermonter Mike Bradley will share his experience of over 25 years providing Vermont land surveyors with records and information that records oftentimes omitted. In short, he has extracted, transcribed, correlated, and integrated histories, archives, deeds, probates, biographies and journals to give us a clearer picture of early surveys. Don’t miss this Wallingford Historical Society presentation.

The talk will be held at the Wallingford Town Hall at 7:00 pm on June 29^th. Free and open to the public and accessible to people with disabilities. Call Diane Cooney at 446-2514 for information.

Help Needed. The Wallingford Historical Society will be working on the collection on the first and fourth Wednesdays of each month if anyone wants to join us. The time is 1:30 -3:00 pm. This is also a good time to research the collection.

Angel Food Ministries
Angel Food Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing substantial grocery savings to communities throughout the U.S. Angel Food is available monthly to any household in a quantity that can fit into a medium sized box at $30. Each month’s menu is different and consists of both fresh/frozen items with an average retail value of $60. Generally, one box of food assists in feeding a family of four for about one week or a single senior citizen for almost a month. Angel Food gladly accepts debit/credit cards, cash and food stamps.

Take a look at the new Angel Food Ministries offerings at www.rutlandangelfood.com. Questions can be directed to Carleen Eaton at (802) 779-8078. Gift cards are now available for Angel Food!

Orders will be taken in person by a volunteer who will be at the Town Hall on Tuesday, June 1st from 3:00-4:00 p.m. Stop by. Debit/credit cards, EBT (food stamps) or Cash accepted. Order deadline is June 20th at noon; delivery date in Wallingford is June 26—make arrangements through Carleen.

Little Red Schoolhouse Upcoming Events

Community Playgroup: For children ages birth and up with a parent/caregiver. Come visit with other adults/families, let your children play in a safe and fun environment! Mondays 9:30-11:30 Pack a snack!

Home School Gatherings: Little Red Schoolhouse is available to home schooling families to gather, special activities and more! Wednesdays 9:30-3:30

Knitting/Yarn Group First Thursday of every month at 6:15 pm, at the Little Red Schoolhouse. Bring your yarn, supplies and a project to start, or one you’re working on! Want to learn to knit or crochet? We can help with that too! Starts May 6th. May expand to twice a month in the fall if there is a lot of interest.

Asperger’s Parent Support Group: 4th Tuesday of every month from 7:15-8:30. The Asperger’s support group is open to any families wanting to gather and discuss issues relating to Asperger’s, high-functioning Autism or NLD.

Wallingford Congregational Church Food Shelf
The Wallingford Congregational Church houses an Emergency Community Food Shelf. Supplies will be given by appointment only. Contact Robin Milner at 446-3966.

The Ladies Aid of the First Congregational Church
The Ladies Aid of the First Congregational Church of Wallingford would like to thank all who donated food, money and/or time to make our 89th annual May Breakfast a success. We appreciate your support.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Volunteers needed -- Age 13- seniors for Fundraisers, work details, events!
Contact Charlie Gauthier at 353-0996 for details.

Whether you operate a farm and are preparing to plant on a large scale, or you are buying seeds for a smaller home garden, the Rutland Area Farm and Food Link (RAFFL) encourages you to plan ahead and this year, to Grow an Extra Long Row of vegetables for local children, families, and individuals in need.

Last summer and fall, we were able to collect and redistribute over 10,000 pounds of fresh produce, meat, cheese and eggs to 14 non-profit organizations in the greater Rutland area. We would like to double the amount of redistributed food in this, our second year.

We invite you to become a part of the process by planting an extra row – large or small – or by donating cheese, eggs or meat to the program. RAFFL volunteers will be stationed at both the Rutland and Poultney Farmers Markets to accept product or monetary donations. Volunteers can also pick products up at your house or farm, or with additional planning, can organize a formal gleaning. We are tremendously humbled by the generosity of our local producers, and the recipients of the fresh food continue to be very grateful. We hope that through increased awareness and outreach, we can continue to help our neighbors in need. Please consider visiting the RAFFL volunteer at the Rutland and Poultney Farmers Markets, or call our office at 802-417-7331 to discuss ways in which you can donate fresh, nutritious, local food to people relying on food assistance.

THE NEW # 1 BURGLAR SECRET: Part I
I was able to look at your "facebook" site and read where you told a friend the exact dates you would be out of town which gave me a lot of time to empty your house.

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste. And taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.

6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)

10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

Vt. Days – June 12-13
During this weekend, all Vermont State Parks Day Use areas and all Vermont Historic Sites is FREE! There will also be free park interpretive programs and events statewide. Saturday is free fishing day, where everyone can fish without a license. For more info, go to www.vtstateparks.com and visit the Events page.

Wallingford Early Summer Garden Tour
On Saturday, June 26^th there will be a fund-raiser to benefit The Gilbert Hart Library. Six local gardens will be open for visitors between 10AM and 2PM with a complimentary afternoon tea and art exhibit in the library’s Klock Room between 1PM and 3PM.

Tickets may be purchased at the library in advance for $15 or at the door for $20. Please treat yourself to a delightful day out exploring these diverse landscapes. We think you will enjoy the unique inspiration of each of our wonderful garden hosts. Additional information is available by calling 446-2442.

Wallingford High School Alumni News
The Wallingford High School newsletter has been sent out and replies are coming back for the Annual W.H.S. Alumni Banquet. This will be held at the Franklin Conference Center in Rutland on Saturday, July 10^th. Social hour is from 5-6 p.m. with dinner beginning at 6 p.m. The deadline for replies is July 1^st.

Several classes are planning reunions at the banquet. The classes of ’40, ’50, ’60, and ’75 are planning to meet at the banquet. The class of 1970 is also planning a party for some time this summer. If your class would like space reserved at the banquet, please contact any member of the Board.

Last year we tried to raise money for the Scholarship Fund by holding a golf tournament. We have decided to try it again this year. The Second Annual W.H.S. Alumni Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, July 9^th at the Lake St. Catherine Country Club. If you would like to play, contact Kevin Fredette at 446-2224 for more information. If any business would like to donate prizes such as golf balls, tees, hats, shirts, umbrellas, or things that have your logo on them, contact any member of the Board. All proceeds go to the W.H.S. Alumni Scholarship Fund.

Members of the Board are: Alice Munson, President, Marge Eddy, Vice President, Rita Reynolds, Secretary/Treasurer, Sharon Seaver, Stearns Stewart, Linda Weightman, John Colvin, Ruth Dana, Conrad Waite, and Richard Stewart.

Good news! The tickets are being printed and the 50/50 Raffle is on for 2010! After taking a year off, the 50/50 raffle is returning. The date is Friday, July 23^rd at the newly renovated Boy’s Camp on beautiful Elfin Lake.

In case you are not familiar with the Annual Wallingford Rescue 50/50 Raffle, here is a summary of the event. 225 raffle tickets are sold. Eight cash prizes range from $40 to $1,500. On Friday, July 23^rd, a raffle drawing is held at the Boy’s Camp. There will be a buffet of finger foods available for all ticket holders and one guest. At 7:30, the elimination process begins. During the drawing of tickets, there are also dozens of door prizes given away. These prizes are generously donated by local businesses. They range in value from $10 to over $100.

There will be 225 tickets for sale and the price remains at $40 each. If you purchased a ticket in 2008, then you will be receiving a call in late June to see if you would like to purchase a ticket. If you have not purchased a ticket, you can call any of the members of the Wallingford Rescue to be put on a wait list for a ticket.

This has been Wallingford Rescue’s major fundraiser for 22 years. It seems to be a popular event for local people. We would like to thank you for your support over the years. Without you, the building at 99 Maple Street would not have been possible.

2010 Officers are: President Bastian Auer, Vice President Laurie Phillips, Secretary Rita Reynolds, and Treasurer Nancy Seward. The Board of Directors are Rich Auer, Hillary Reynolds, and Colleen Gilman.

WVFD Sponsors Town Wide Tag Sale Day June 19
The Wallingford Volunteer Fire Department is looking for participants to join them for a day of town-wide tag sales. Vendors can opt to be included on the town-wide map for a fee of $5. An online FREE copy of a 16 page booklet titled: Tips & Strategies For A Successful & Profitable Tag Sale: A guide to planning and conducting your next tag sale with less hassle & bigger profits! is available at: http://anna-qs-attic.blogspot.com/p/tag-sale-guide.html

-Get listed on the town-wide map to help increase traffic and potential buyers for your sale.
-Get the link to an online FREE copy of the tag sale guide with your listing on the town-wide tag sale map.
-Now is your chance to clean out the clutter you’ve been accumulating for years in that basement, barn, attic or garage.
-Benefit from the WVFD’s advertising for their sale held at the firehouse on that same day.
-Maps available after June 15th from WVFD members

Contact the WVFD for application form and more information at:

Wallingford Volunteer Fire Department
P.O. Box 280, Wallingford, VT 05773
Phone: 802-446-2295 Email: wvfd3300@yahoo.com

The WVFD is also accepting donations for their annual tag sale. Please contact department members to schedule a pick up of your donated items.

The WVFD has a limited amount of vendor spaces available for rent. Contact the department for more info.

Congratulations Graduates
Mill River Union High School – June 9
Wallingford Elementary School – June 10

Wallingford Annual “Fun Day” July 17
The Wallingford Volunteer Fire Department is looking for contributions – cash, checks, gift cards, or items for the Fun Day Raffle. Please call the WVFD at 446-2295 if you have any questions. Be sure to remember that your contribution to our non-profit organization may qualify for a tax deduction.

Summer Camp for Rent on Tinmouth Pond

Two bedrooms (one double bed/two bunkbeds), 1 bath with phone, TV w/cable, kayaks and paddleboat. Fully furnished. $500 per week (7 days/6 nights). No pets allowed. Payment due upon reservation. Call (802) 446-2902 evenings.