Past President of JPA, Andre LaPrade

I neglected to inform my readers yesterday that Andre LaPrade passed away Friday, Sept. 1. Yesterday's meeting began on that sad note, and there was a moment of silence in his memory. Andre had many friends here at Joe's Pond and was even an enthusiastic "year 'rounder" for several years before finding a winter home in Florida.

Andre served as president of the Joe's Pond Association from 1998-2004. It was during those years that Project 2000 was founded, and within a very short period of time Andre had raised money to improve the pavilion, the kitchen, playground - just about everything got updated and renewed. He brought me on as secretary in about 1999 and working with him was like being in a whirlwind sometimes. His ideas and dreams for the JPA were large and bold, and he took great pride in seeing the changes happen. We owe him a huge debt of gratitude for his foresight, energy, and determination. Fittingly, there will be a plaque at the pavilion in Andre's memory. He will certainly be missed, and our thoughts are with Sherry and their family. Messages of condolence may be sent to Sherry and the family at P. O. Box 15, West Danville, VT 05873.

I found the above photo of Andre taken at the 2008 annual meeting.

This reminder comes from Sue Yesalonia:

As camps close, if you have canned food or non-perishable food items that are unopened and are still good (please check expiration dates!) that you do not want any longer, you can drop them off at the Open Door in Danville on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday between 10:00 and 1:00. Additionally, if you have clean, gently used clothes or household items that you no longer need, theses too can be donated to the Open Door, which supports local families in need. If you can’t personally make a drop off, please contact Susan Yesalonia. She will pick up usable donations. Her phone number is (802) 793-3973.