I just heard from Sue LaGue that she and Andre LaPrade are teaming up to do a silent auction at the Pig Roast on August 9! Proceeds will benefit Lorraine and Phil Porter's grandson, Zack, who is six and has leukemia.

If you've been reading the blog (see entries below) you know Zack and his parents just moved back to Vermont this summer where the family intended to build a home and Zack would go to school in Danville. Everything has changed in the few short weeks since Zack was diagnosed as having leukemia, and the expenses will be huge for Jim and Steph. Zack is getting good care in Burlington, and Steph is staying at the hospital with him. They will hopefully soon be home in St. Johnsbury where a house has been donated for the family to use as long as they need it. In the meantime, dad, Jim, is working at Home Depot in Littleton while mom stays with Zach. Grandparents Phil and Lorraine are holding things together at camp on Sandy Beach Road.

So here's the thing. Sue thought Joe's Ponders would like to show their support, and figured rather than let the silent auction that we usually have with the Pig Roast drop, we could come up with ideas and still have the auction and put the money toward a good cause. She asks that you all begin thinking and talking about what you might be able to do, and wants you to make it fun. She said she and Andy can also use help contacting folks, collecting items, or whatever. Give them a call and let them know your thoughts or ideas on how you can help or what you can donate. If there's something you'd pay to have someone else to do or donate, let them know - Sue's an organizer and Andy knows how to get the job done! Sue says funky is good, so get creative. There isn't a lot of time, so tell your neighbors and make this happen. To reach the team, call Sue at home, 476-4505 or at camp, 563-2706; or call Andre at 563-2196.

P.S. - Sue knows Evelyn and Ray Richer are also doing a benefit on Aug. 14th, and she has contacted them. Evelyn and Ray are also doing a silent auction, but have no objection to Sue and Andre doing one with Joe's Pond Association folks, too. It's really a joint effort and people are anxious to help the Porter family in any way they can. So donate to one or both - it's all for the same good cause.