To the Editor:

Soon, we hope, the warm weather will move in and we will bid farewell to an unusual winter. We did not have the prolonged periods of cold that are normal, but the Deerfield Valley, in general, went into the winter still in debt from last fall’s hurricane damage. Many people were out of work for long periods, waiting for their businesses and homes to be repaired. The lack of snow made a robust economic recovery impossible this winter, and the cost of fuels kept rising each week.

The state cut down on their fuel assistance, leaving even more people unable to afford to keep themselves warm. So we found a large number of people unable to keep up with their heating bills.

In order to thank those who have contributed to our fund and to keep the general public informed, we publish our expenditures at the end of each winter season.

From the first of October 2011 through March 31, 2012, the DVCC spent $54,393.01 on various types of fuel for people within the Deerfield Valley. Unfortunately there were some people who needed more, but we were unable to help further.

Raising the money to provide this help becomes more difficult each year. We have often said that if everyone in the valley gave us five dollars each year, we could cover the needs of those people who run into trouble during the winter months. However, we continue to rely on a small percentage of people each year who give generously and support our efforts. To those of you who have helped us, we cannot express our gratitude enough.

We hope that you join us for our two major fundraising efforts this summer and fall. Tunes ‘n’Blooms is a cocktail party/garden tour which is held at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Forte, and will take place on Saturday, July 21 (rain date July 22). Posters will appear around town in June as well as in The Deerfield Valley News. The “Best Dam Walk in Vermont” is an enjoyable way to take a walk, or a run; a long one or a short one, and get your friends to sponsor you to help us raise money for next winter. It will take place on Sunday, September 9. Information and registration forms can be found at bestdamwalk.com or by calling (802) 464-5872.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan M. Spengler

On behalf of the board of directors Carolyn DiLeo, Ann Herrmann, Ginny Kuhnert, and Ginny Studer

Wilmington