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Youth Exchange Host Family Needed

The Ludlow Rotary Club continues it's 33 year history of hosting international students for a full high school year. We are currently looking for two to three host families to share the hosting of an international student for the upcoming school year. The Rotary club provides a monthly allowance for the student as well as monthly trips that allow respite for the host families, and additional experiences for the student. It is a wonderful opportunity to open your home to a new culture, and share our local culture with a high school-age student.

If you are interested, please contact club youth exchange coordinator Jim Rumrill at jrumrill@hotmail.com, or call at 802-380-2766. Rotary Youth Exchange; Building peace and understanding, one exchange at a time.

www.ludlowrotary.com

Ludlow Rotary Receives Grant for Okemo Valley Swiftwater Rescue Team

Ludlow Rotary received a Global Grant to fund the Okemo Valley Swiftwater Rescue Team (OVSRT) in the amount of $62,922. The grant will fund training and equipment to outfit 15 emergency personnel in techniques for making rushing water and other technical rescues while remaining safe themselves. Safety for our local emergency personnel was a key factor in receiving the Global Grant from Rotary International(RI).

The grant is part of the emergency response recovery program of Rotary International. It was funded by a collaboration of Rotary Clubs from Ludlow, and surrounding area clubs; individual Rotarians in southern Vermont and Swellendam, South Africa; a club in Moinabad, Telangana, India; the Rotary District of Southern VT and NH; and the RI World Fund.

After the devastating flood in 2023, the Ludlow Rotary Club received numerous generous donations for flood recovery. As a Club they decided to keep $15,000 of those donations for a project that would benefit all four communities served by the Club. When the Technical Rescue team was selected to receive the funds, it was suggested that those funds could be enhanced by the new RI emergency response grants, if international partners could be found. The Club has spent the past year and a half securing the necessary partners and putting the funding together with Ben Whalen, vice president of the Technical Rescue Squad.

The Okemo Valley Swiftwater Rescue Team is composed of emergency personnel from Cavendish, Ludlow, Mount Holly and Plymouth. Whalen indicated the equipment and training will help protect the emergency personnel of all 4 communities, many of whom are volunteers, in addition to the public who face danger in the face of increasing weather and related hazards. Many of those trained recently said it was the best training they had ever had.

The LRC meets most Tuesdays for lunch in Ludlow. The LRC is small and is always looking to welcome new members. If you would like to attend a meeting and learn how you may 'Serve Humanity' while enjoying the fun and fellowship of others, please contact Kevin Barnes at 802 558-0479 or any Rotarian.

Ludlow Hears on Internet Safety

Ludlow Rotary heard horror stories about scams and frauds from M&T Bank branch manager, Art Randolph at a recent meeting. Randolph, a long time Rotarian, provided written and verbal details of how to avoid becoming a victim of such scams.

He cautioned that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. He also said count to ten on any call, text or email which is suspicious. He urged skepticism and further checking the source of emails which are possibly a fake from what is believed to be a familiar source, by hovering over the sender address to see whether the sender is valid. Oftentimes they look like a familiar business or contact, but the email will not be from that source. Those are all scams.

People in our communities are falling victim to scams daily. The bank makes an effort to discourage withdrawal of unusual amounts of funds from individual accounts for what they have found to be fraudulent sources. Randolph also cautioned, "never let a stranger come to your home to pick up large amounts of cash, regardless if they say it is for a loved one." Take it slowly and never act with urgency to be safe.

As the world faces increasing challenges, the Ludlow Rotary Club is reaffirming its commitment to the dual pillars of Community Service and World Peace and Conflict Resolution. Local Rotarians invite community members to join their mission of "Service Above Self" to create positive change starting right here in the Okemo Valley. LRC meets most Tuesdays at DJ’s at 12:15 p.m. We invite others to have lunch with us to learn about what we do. Visit us at www.ludlowrotary.com or like us on Facebook!

Epic Promise Funds Youth Exchange Weekend

Epic Promise Funds Youth Exchange Weekend

The Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) hosted international students who are on a school-year-long youth exchange program in the Northeast for a weekend of skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Okemo Mountain Resort. The weekend was made possible by a generous grant from Vail Resorts Epic Promise known as the Vail Resorts Epic for Everyone Access & On-Mountain support.

Vail is committed to the health and sustainability of their local and urban metro communities. Annually, Vail Resorts invests over $22 million in Access programming and has cultivated partnerships with over 180 nonprofits that help make the future of the sport more inclusive by serving guests of all ages, abilities, cultural backgrounds, and ethnicities.

Local Rotarian and long time coordinator of the Rotary Youth Exchange program, Jim Rumrill, said "The students had a wonderful time on the mountain. It is one of their favorite weekends every year. Thanks to Vail and Okemo Mountain Resort for their continued support of this great event."

Ludlow Rotary Club Welcomes New Owners of the Belmont Store

Ludlow Rotary Club Welcomes New Owner of the Belmont General Store

The Ludlow Rotary Club recently welcomed Alissa Chronert, the new owner of the Belmont General Store, as a guest speaker at a recent meeting.

Located in the center of Belmont village, the Belmont General Store has been a cornerstone of local life since it was founded in 1843. For generations, the store has served as a gathering place for residents and visitors in this small rural community.

For Alissa, the store represents more than just a business opportunity - it is deeply tied to her own family history.

Her connection to Belmont began in childhood, when her family owned a rustic camp in the area. She fondly recalls spending summers and winters at the cabin, where life was simple: candles provided light, lake water served for bathing, and buckets of water were used to flush the toilet.

Even after graduating from college and moving to New York City, Alissa returned to Vermont nearly every weekend to enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with the place she loved.

Those memories made a lasting impression and ultimately led her back.

“When the store went on the market in 2020, it really caught my attention,” Alissa said. “It holds so many memories for me, my family, and the people in town. At the time, I was also planning my wedding, so I wondered if I could really take on a general store as well. But it felt like a fun adventure and a great way to give something back to the community, especially since the store had been closed for so long.”

In 2023, Alissa and her husband Michael, a professional triathlete, purchased the property and began an extensive renovation project to restore the historic building.

During the renovation, the couple made several fascinating discoveries hidden within the walls of the old store. Among the finds were newspapers dating back to the late 1800s and an old Coca-Cola machine tucked away between the walls.

Just days after uncovering the machine, a customer walked into the store and shared a childhood memory of buying soda from a Coke machine that once stood there - a moment that reinforced the deep connection many locals have to the building.

Today, the Belmont General Store is once again open seven days a week. The store offers a variety of Vermont-sourced products, along with beer, cider, and wine. A café and deli serve breakfast sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and espresso in the morning, while lunch features a selection of hot and cold sandwiches.

Family connections remain central to the business: Chronert’s brother owns the nearby Mount Holly Beer Company, and her father contributes by baking pastries for the store including what she proudly describes as his particularly delicious croissants.

The store has already become a popular stop for snowmobilers looking for lunch during the winter season. Looking ahead, Alissa said they are exploring the possibility of offering gasoline to better serve traveling snowmobilers.

With the store once again bustling with activity, Alissa hopes it will continue its long tradition as a gathering place for the Belmont community.

Contact any Rotarian if you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the Ludlow Rotary Club or attending as a guest at our Tuesday luncheons.

WinterSledding Social

A "Winter Perfect" Evening in Belmont!

What a spectacular night for the Ludlow Rotary Club! We couldn't have asked for better conditions as we gathered in Belmont for an old-fashioned winter celebration. The air was crisp, the snow was fast, and the company was even better.

The Need for Speed

We had a fantastic lineup of sleds hitting the hills, ranging from classic racers to modern flyers. While the competition was friendly, there was a clear standout: the blue highly decorated sled! It officially took the title of "Fastest on the Hill" for the day—though we suspect the extra decorations might have added some aerodynamic magic.

Warm Hearts and Festive Eats

A massive thank you to Brigid Sullivan for keeping us cozy! Brigid provided a roaring fire log that served as the perfect hub for the evening. Between runs, we enjoyed a spread of festive food that kept everyone fueled and spirits high.

A Sweet Vermont Tradition

To wrap up the evening, we treated ourselves to a true Vermont classic: Sugar on Snow; thanks to President, Kevin Barnes. It was a delight to watch several of our guests experience this for the very first time! There’s nothing quite like that perfect mix of hot maple syrup with fresh snow.

Thank you to everyone who came out to make this event so memorable. It’s days like these that remind us why we love our Vermont community!

Josh and Jamie Rose, New Owners of Green Mtn. Sugarhouse, Speak at Rotary Luncheon

Josh and Jamie Rose, New Owners of Green Mtn. Sugarhouse, Speak at Rotary Luncheon

Josh and Jamie Rose of Plymouth, VT became the new official owners of the Green Mountain Sugarhouse in early January. Since Josh was little, he’s been in the sugarhouse or woods daily while his parents, Doug & Ann Rose, continued their normal work routine; Ann in the office/shop and Doug in the sugarhouse. Ann’s father, Dave Harlow started the GMSH in the 1950’s running it until 1985 when Doug and Ann stepped in and took over. Now It is in the capable hands of the third generation.

Josh stated they completed their 13,000 taps just before the big snowstorm arrived in January. They have three parcels they tap located in Reading. Josh demonstrated the vacuum sensors and remote monitoring equipment which are placed on the sap lines. With this equipment, he monitors the vacuum process through his smartphone, sensing any possible leaks or faulty sap lines. He can get to the faulty line much quicker than having to walk all lines looking for leaks or damage.

Jamie assured the group nothing will change with maple candy, fudge or creemes. (A big cheer from the Rotarians!) One of her initiatives is to boost their online sales. Years ago,marketing started with a catalog, then online sales came about. One idea she hopes to create is a possible “subscription” allowing customers to receive maple syrup delivered on their schedule; perhaps a quart every month if that is the customer's wish. You should expect to see the family in the office at their desks, with their three young children doing homework on weeknights if you stop by, like Josh and his sister did years ago during sugaring season.

Gift baskets, individual syrup, homemade maple products and unique Vermont gifts can be found at the store on RTE 100 North. Josh and Jamie invite everyone to stop during sugaring season to see the operation. The fresh smell of maple syrup is like no other!

As the world faces increasing challenges, the Ludlow Rotary Club is reaffirming its commitment to the dual pillars of Community Service and World Peace and Conflict Resolution. Local Rotarians are inviting community members to join their mission of "Service Above Self" to create a ripple effect of positive change starting right here in the Okemo Valley. LRC meets most Tuesdays at DJ’s at 12:15 p.m. We invite others to pop in and have lunch with us to learn about what we do. Visit us at www.ludlowrotary.com or like us on Facebook!

New Municipal Manager of Ludlow

Posted on Jan 13, 2026

New Municipal Manager Speaks to Ludlow Rotary

Penny Wu, a native of Ludlow, graduated from BRHS, attended college at UVM and moved to Colorado for employment at the USDA Forest Services for 35 years. Upon retiring from her occupation, she spotted that Ludlow was hiring for the municipal manager position. And as she said when things happen, they happen for a reason. She applied and was awarded the position in early December 2025.

She is excited and eager to bring new ideas to the town of Ludlow and surrounding towns. Upon her first week of employment, she met with all department heads to form the 2026-27 town/village budgets. She dove extensively into expenses and revenues on all levels to present an effective budget for proposals for the select and trustee boards upcoming meetings. She is enthusiastic for Town Meeting, which will be held in March, commenting that in Colorado town meetings do not exist.

Penny is looking at long-term projects and building infrastructures. She hopes to work closely with FEMA for the completion of the Timber Inn land restoration citing additional plantations need to be completed. She spoke about the need for a new or redesign of the Ludlow Water/Sewer Department. The current facility has been through two floods recently she noted and either needs substantial repairs or relocation. The flood control dam project Ludlow is facing is a $30 million dollar renovation that is being reviewed.

The Ludlow Rotary Club meets weekly at DJ’s Restaurant and welcomes visitors who wish to know more about Rotary and what we do. Visit us at www.ludlowrotary.com or like us on Facebook! We are a small but mighty club serving the towns of Ludlow, Mount Holly, Plymouth, Cavendish and Plymouth since 1927.

Ludlow Rotary Supports Chester Teen Center

Ludlow Rotary Supports Chester Teen Center
The Ludlow Rotary Club recently presented a check to Andrew Moore, Creative Arts Director for BRACC (Black River Action Community Coalition), in support of the new Chester Teen Center. The center is spearheaded by Lauren Ingersoll and is located at Green Mountain Church, 469 Main Street in Chester.
The Chester Teen Center provides a safe, welcoming space for youth ages 13 and up, offering a balance of fun and enrichment. The center is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:00–5:30 pm, and features homework tutoring, creative workshops, and opportunities for teens to socialize and build friendships.
Operating year-round, the Teen Center also offers seasonal activities, including mountain biking in the summer and skiing in the winter, helping teens stay active and engaged throughout the year.
For more information about the Chester Teen Center, visit braccvt.org.

LR Awards Grant to Mount Holly Elem School
Ludlow Rotary Awards Grant to Mount Holly Elementary School

The Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) awarded the Mount Holly Elementary School a check in the amount of $3,000.

The School’s music program was the beneficiary of a Rotary grant to purchase risers for concerts, plays or other events. Previously, the school had to bring risers from Ludlow Elementary School for concerts.

As shown in the photo, LRC President Elect, Brigid Sullivan, presented the check to Mount Holly Music Teacher Mary Barron, and Principal Craig Hutt Vater.

“This represents the long-term policy of both the LRC and Rotary International to support the educational needs of public schools,” commented Sullivan. She added that projects like the risers are complemented by LRC’s distribution of books to elementary schools and individual students as well as scholarships to graduating high school seniors planning to attend college.

Rotary Hears of Okemo Snowmaking Efforts

The Ludlow Rotary Club was pleased to welcome Eb Kinney and Greg Cartier of Okemo Mountain Operations and Snow Surfaces at their recent meeting. Together, Kinney and Cartier bring more than 40 years of experience at Okemo Mountain Resort, where they help deliver the outstanding skiing and riding experience that guests have come to expect year after year.

Kinney and Cartier shared that Okemo is targeting an opening date of November 22, weather permitting. “We’re ready to go,” said Kinney. “As soon as temperatures drop, our team will be out making snow and grooming those beautiful trails our guests love.”

Okemo’s dedicated “Mountain Operations Team,” 30 to 40 members strong, is poised for action once the conditions allow. Over the summer, the crew worked hard maintaining and mowing the resort’s extensive network of trails, covering approximately 600 acres, including 130 acres of hand-cleared terrain.

Guests can also look forward to the return of the halfpipe, one of only two in New England, crafted with specialized machinery to shape and maintain its curved surfaces. Recent autumn rains have fully replenished Okemo’s water storage ponds, ensuring ample supply for early snowmaking efforts.

This year, the resort has made several notable improvements, the installation of two new digital signs to enhance guest communication and enjoyment, the replacement of 300 snowmaking nozzles with low-energy, high-efficiency equipment, improving sustainability and snow quality, new seat pads on some lifts, and replacement of two snow cats.

Snowmaking typically begins when temperatures drop to the 24–26°F range, allowing the team to produce the signature “carpets of snow” Okemo is known for.

Kinney emphasized that success on the mountain is a true team effort: “Our team at Okemo is all about creating the best possible skiing experience for our guests. Everyone plays a part in making the mountain special.”

As winter approaches, excitement is building across the community for another fantastic season on the slopes of Okemo Mountain with lots of fun activities planned.

The Ludlow Rotary Club (LRD) meets Tuesdays for lunch at DJ’s in Ludlow. The LRC is small and is always looking to welcome new members. If you would like to attend a meeting and learn how you may “serve humanity” while enjoying the fun and fellowship of others, please contact any Rotarian or drop a note to Ludlow Rotary Club, P.O. Box 216, Ludlow VT.

Pictured are Greg Cartier, Eb Kinney from Okemo Operations and George Thomson, Rotary Past President

OMS Head of School Speaks at Ludlow Rotary Club Meeting

LUDLOW, VT — The Ludlow Rotary Club welcomed Mariel Meringolo, Head of School at Okemo Mountain School (OMS), as the featured speaker at its October 28, 2025, meeting. Meringolo shared the inspiring story of OMS, founded in 1991 to meet the academic and athletic needs of competitive winter sports athletes. Over the years, OMS has guided numerous Olympians and professional skiers and riders, earning a strong reputation for excellence both on the slopes and in the classroom.

During her presentation, Meringolo emphasized OMS’s deep commitment to community involvement. The school offers eight scholarships each year to students from towns within the Two Rivers Supervisory Union, helping make world-class training and education more accessible to local families.

She also highlighted how OMS students have been giving back since the 2021–2022 season, volunteering with the Ludlow Elementary School snow sports program, skiing and riding alongside young students during their Wednesday afternoons at Okemo.

In addition, OMS runs The Three Maples Summer Day Camp, launched in 2022 as a low-cost camp opportunity for local children. The camp has become a popular summer tradition, offering fun, adventure, and outdoor education for area families. Applications for OMS scholarships and financial aid are available online.
The Ludlow Rotary Club also welcomed Lori Wright as its newest member, continuing Rotary’s mission of bringing together community leaders in service and fellowship.
The Ludlow Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global service organization dedicated to promoting goodwill, peace, and community engagement. The club meets most Tuesdays at lunch to discuss local issues, coordinate volunteer efforts, and support programs that strengthen the Ludlow region and beyond. If you would like to attend a meeting and learn how you may 'Serve Humanity' while enjoying the fun and fellowship of others, please contact any Rotarian or drop a note to Ludlow Rotary, PO Box 216, Ludlow, Vermont 05149.

Chili Success!

Ludlow Rotary’s Chili-Off Major Success with All

The 34th Annual Chili Cook-Off this past Holiday weekend was a major success. The weather was perfect, hundreds of “taste testers” were treated to a large variety of chilis, and the many chili providers were happy with the reception of their unique brands of “real” chili. Additionally, the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) gained resources to continue providing assistance to local projects.

“We had over 20 chilis to taste and be judged by well over 700 eager customers,” commented Kevin Barnes, LRC President. “There was everything from Thai chili, venison, vegetarian, and even white bean and chicken to sample. At times, the line to get into the chili tent circled around the block and down Main Street”. Barnes noted that “every kind of chili you can imagine was offered at the cookoff from very hot, veggie, and everything in between. It truly was a chili-lovers festival!”

Kathy Burns, one the chili providers noted “It was so fun to participate. Thanks for the push in all the years I added this great fun filled event to my check list. Very nicely done!”

Some of the winners of the tasters voting were no strangers to winning at the cook-off”, Barnes noted. As a result of the voting by the many “taste testers”, the recipients of the People’s Choice awards were:

1st Chili Con Carlos - Carlos Inglesias

2nd Birds Nest - Shelli Steinfeld

3rd Contractor Approved - Contractors for Christ

Honorable mention. Saylor Family Chili - Chris Saylor

The Judges for the following awards were three area educational leaders: they include Ema Vastola - Cavendish Elementary principal, Lisa Marks - Ludlow 4th Grade, and Zoe Trimboli – Green Mountain Paraprofessional/After School Program, decided the following winners in these categories:

Best in Show Thai Curry - Stemwinder

Team Spirit Singleton’s Best - Singleton’s Store

Spiciest Saylor Family Chili - Chris Saylor

Barnes expressed the clubs thanks to the many businesses and folks who made the cook-off possible. They were:

Cayenne level:

William Raveis Vermont Properties, Mary W. Davis Realtor and Associates, Master Plumbing and Heating, Servpro-Ryder Restorations, Cota and Cota Plumbing and Heating, Green Mountain Fireside, Main and Mountain, Jeff Milligan Builders, Wright Constuction, Belmont Septic, High Country Contractors

Chili Pepper:

Ted Stryhas Builders, Black River Mechanical, HB Plumbing and Heating, Burns and Associates, Sue Star-Adams, Diamond Point Wealth Partners, James Young Attorney at Law

Jalapeno level:

Wine and Cheese Depot, Gassetts Group Builders

In Kind:

Benson’s Chevrolet, Shaws Supermarket, Wilcox Dairy, Ralph Pace, Okemo Mountain Resort, The Castel Inn, DJ’s Restaurant, Frank Ellison, The Hatchery

The proceeds from the cook-off will be used by the LRC to continue its programs of aiding local groups and schools.

35th Annual Chili Cook-off Is Here!

Ludlow Rotary Club 35^th Annual Chili Cook-off

The Ludlow Area Rotary Club is sponsoring the 35^th Annual Chili Cook-off on Saturday, October 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The cook-off will be located at the traffic light on Depot Street. Proceeds to benefit The Ludlow Area Rotary Charitable Fund that services Ludlow, Cavendish, Mount Holly, and Plymouth. Admission is $15.00 for adults, $5 for under 12, and $35 for 2 adults and 2 children. It includes chili, bread, ice cream and cider.

Chili entries are welcome from individuals, clubs, and businesses. Entry fee of $10.00 will include a table space and sterno. Participants are responsible for arriving between 10:30 – 10:45 the day of the cook-off. Cash prizes will be awarded in the “People’s Choice” category. Awards will be given to the chili entry with the most votes in the “Judges’ Choice”, “Spiciest”, and “Team Spirit” categories. Chili entrants are asked to provide five (5) gallons of chili for this event and we can help with servers if needed.

Please mail your name, address and phone number along with chili entry fee of $10.00 to: Ludlow Rotary Club, PO Box 216, Ludlow, VT 05149. For more info, contact Kevin Barnes 802 558 0479.

We hope to see you there – come join the fun!

26th Annual Duck Race Victory

26^th Annual Duck Race Features Over 650 Ducks Seeking Victory

This past Saturday, over 650 ducks (rubber ducks to be certain) raced from the Depot Street bridge to Walker Bridge as the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) conducted its 26^th annual race down the Black River.

According to the Head Duck, Sharon Bixby, the course was difficult for both the ducks and the Rotarians and friends helping them traverse the shallow and rocky waters of the river. Nonetheless, most of the ducks managed to cross the Walker Bridge finish line.

The first ducks crossing the line rewarded their owners who had “rented” them with financial awards. They were:

Duck #1 – awarded $200, owner, Anonymous

Duck #2 – awarded $100, owner, Theresa Southworth

Duck #3 – awarded $50, owner, Suzanne Theroux

Corporate Duck winner – awarded “bragging rights”, owner, The Book Nook

And last (but not least) The last duck to make it across the finish line, awarded $25 and owned by Virginia Ward

The proceeds from this year’s race will go to the Mt. Holly Fire Department so they can purchase new hoses.

Sharon Bixby, expressed her thanks to the various groups that assisted in the event, especially the businesses and those who purchased Duck tickets.

While some of the river guidance staff are still trying to dry out their shoes, Sharon indicated that the LRC is busy planning next year’s “river exercise”’. The first objective will be to identify an area non-profit group to benefit from the 2026 duck race. For information, contact Sharon at 802-228-8823.

Pictured above are Ludlow Rotarians and members of the Mt Holly Fire Department as they assist the more than 650 ducks across the finish line in the Ludlow Rotary Club’s 26^th annual River Race at Walker Bridge. As is clearly evident, the river was running low causing the ducks to need guidance to the finish line.

DG Donna Deos Visits our Club

At this week's meeting, District Governor Donna Deos visited the club. She spoke about her plans for the year and her thoughts on recruiting new members. Donna emphasized the need for growth in our membership and the importance of getting new members involved in activities right away. Many people do not know of the good works of Rotary and it is up to us to share it.

Donna is the Governor through June 30, 2026 and is on a planned schedule to meet with all 63 clubs in the district. She is a member of the Bow, NH Rotary club and the first District Governor in 7870 to be the daughter of a Rotarian.

Sophia Moore-Smith Visits Ludlow Rotary Club

Sophia Moore-Smith attended our meeting on July 29 and spoke to the club about her involvement in Rotary Youth Exchange and her increasing involvement with Rotary. Sophia was an exchange student to Brazil for the 2018-19 school year, sponsored by the Rutland City Rotary club. After her exchange, she enrolled at NYU and this past May completed her Master's Degree in International Relations.

Sophia spoke of the benefits of spending a year on exchange and how she has applied it to her adult life. She is now the President of the Rotaract Youth Exchange Alumni club. The club is three years old and includes former outbound exchange students who were sponsored by clubs in District 7870. In addition to helping to mentor current youth exchange participants, the club is sponsoring its first inbound student, a boy from Taiwan who will be arriving in late August.

26th Annual Ralph D. Hogancamp Memorial Duck Race

Ludlow Rotary Prepares for 26^th Annual Duck Race

It’s that time of year – when the ducks are preparing for race down the Black River in the Ralph D Hogancamp Memorial Duck Race to help a local group on August 16 at 12 Noon. This year the race proceeds will go to Mt Holly Fire Department.

The Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) will be sponsoring the 26^th running of this traditional “athletic” event of the ducks on Saturday, August 16 at 12 Noon. The sponsored ducks will be dropped from the Depot Street bridge into the Black River and the race to determine who the fastest duck to reach Walker Bridge will begin.

The first three ducks reaching the Walker Bridge first will be rewarding their sponsors with cash prizes of $200, 100, and 75 for the first three winners. Keeping with tradition, the last sponsored duck to make it across the finish line will earn $25 for its sponsor-just for trying.

Head Duck, Sharon Bixby, indicated that this year’s race should be very demanding. “We believe the ducks have a special motivation to be the first to cross the line at Walker Bridge now that the Covid epidemic is past and they’ve survived duck hunting season. But it’s still a rocky river to travel, so anything may happen!”

Naturally, to be one of the winners, sponsors need to rent their ducks by purchasing raffle tickets. Tickets are available in numerous “sizes”:

$5 for a single ticket

$20 for a quack pack (5 for $20)

$50 for a corporate duck

Raffle tickets are available at Benson’s Chevrolet, Fletcher Memorial Library, M&T Bank and Ludlow Insurance and any Ludlow Rotarian! They are also available online at www.ludlowrotary.com.

Contact head duck, Sharon Bixby, Rotarian, at 802-228-8823 for any questions.

Ludlow Rotary “Passes the Gavel” and
Summarize Past Year’s Accomplishment

Ludlow Rotary “Passes the Gavel” and Summarize Past Year’s Accomplishments

At its annual picnic meeting at the lake home of Tom Harris, members of the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) observed its traditional “passing of the gavel” and reviewed the club’s achievements in the past year. Out-going President, George Thomson, passed the gavel to Kevin Barnes, the new LRC President and led the Ludlow Rotarians in an analysis of what the club had achieved during the past year.

In summarizing the achievements of the past year, Thomson noted, “We have more than doubled the basic goals set forward by Rotary International (RI), earning its Presidential Citation. I want to thank the board members of LRC along with all the other members of the club for the great effort and dedication to meeting these goals”.

He listed some the goals achieved during his tenure which included:

· Working on a global grant from RI for Okemo Valley Technical Rescue

· Agreeing to be an international partner with a Rotary club in India to setup a kidney dialysis facility in rural India

· Working hard to support the incoming student exchange program, with Jim Rumrill becoming the chair of the Essex Eastern United States Student Exchange program next year. This program, curtailed by Covid for several years, is an important avenue in learning about other nations through their students. Jim also led the effort to charter the Interact Club at Green Mountain High School.

· Awarded $14,000 in scholarships to seven area graduates. This program has resulted in over $285,000 in scholarships since its creation

· Raising the funds necessary to support scholarship awards and programs for local and regional groups through the Penny Sale, Duck Race, and Chili Cook-off

· Distributed books to schools in our district, including personalized books for elementary school youngsters

· Seeking partnership with area Rotary clubs for LRC’s global grant proposals

· Continuing to ensure that LRC members still had fun doing all it could to help local, regional, and international groups in need of our assistance

Thomson indicated that he will become an Assistant Governor in the District, which covers New Hampshire and Vermont.

On accepting the gavel from Thomson, Kevin Barnes said he would continue to support efforts to address our goals. “I believe we have achieved a great deal and it is my intention to see that we continue to work on these goals and the new ones that will develop. This club may be small when measured in numbers against large Rotary clubs but it is huge in terms of what it can do and will do.”

Information on the LRC and membership may be obtained from any Rotarian or by a call to Kevin Barnes at 802- 802-321-8720.

The highlight of the annual “Changing of the Gavel” for the Ludlow Rotary Club was the actual passing of the gavel from the retiring President to the new club President. This occurred at Lake Rescue home of Rotarian Tom Harris, where the LRC witnessed out-going President George Thomson (Left) handing the gavel to Kevin Barnes (right), the new President for 2025-26. This is a tradition started at the ‘Little Red School House’ in Wallingford, VT. Paul Harris, Founder of Rotary International, built “The Old Chapel Building.” In 1928 District 37 bought this historic building. In 1933 it was dedicated as “The Little Red Schoolhouse.” Paul Harris returned to Wallingford for the dedication ceremony.

2025 Scholarship Winners Visit Ludlow Rotary

Five of the seven winners of the 2025 Scholarships from the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) visited the recent meeting of the club to thank it for the awards.

Annually, the LRC offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors who live in its area of coverage which includes Ludlow, Mount Holly, Cavendish and Plymouth. To date, the LRC has granted over $284,000 in scholarship awards.

Pictured above are, from left to right, Kevin Barnes, LRC Rotarian; Briana Barton - Windsor High School; Linsey Jane Miles - Green Mountain High School; Lola Saccardo - Compass High School; Andrei Solzhenitsyn - Green Mountain High School; and Evan Kirdzik - Green Mountain High School.

Funding for these scholarships is largely obtained from the annual Penny Sale sponsored by the LRC in the Spring.

The LRC meets weekly on Tuesday's at 12:15 at DJ's Restaurant. For those who wish to know more about Rotary and what we do join us for a lunch!

Ludlow Rotary Announces 2025 Scholarship Winners

In keeping with its long-standing tradition, the Ludlow Rotary Club announced the winners of its 2025 scholarships, totaling $14,000. Tim Faulkner, scholarship committee chairperson, indicated that the Ludlow Rotary’s scholarship program has offered over $284,000 to graduating seniors from the club’s area of service which includes Ludlow, Plymouth, Mt Holly, and Cavendish.

Recipients of the scholarships in 2025 are graduating seniors who reside in the Ludlow Rotary Club’s area of coverage which includes Ludlow, Mt. Holly, Cavendish, and Plymouth:

From Green Mountain High School:

Daniel E Kesman Memorial Scholarship $2,500 – Andrei Solzhenitsyn

Robert W. Kirkbride Memorial Scholarship $2,500 – Lucy Palmer

Ralph D. Hogancamp Memorial Vocational Scholarship $2,000 – Linsey Jane Miles

Joseph “Jay” Girouard Scholarship $2,000 – Evan Kirdzik

Traditional Scholarship $1,500 – Autumn Fales

From Windsor High School:

Traditional Scholarship $1,500 – Brianna Barton

From Compass High School:

Marty Nitka Scholarship $2,000 – Lola Saccardo

Funding for the scholarship program is derived primarily from proceeds of the Ludlow Rotary Club’s annual Penny Sale in the Spring.

LES Students Enjoy New Books Designed for Them

Pictured here are eleven very happy 1st grade students at Ludlow Elementary School as they show, via their smiles, their happiness in receiving specially printed books for them provided by the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC). According to Lora Miele, their teacher at LES, “The children were thrilled and couldn't wait to bring them home to share with their families!”

LRC has been creating similar books, personalized with each student’s name, for many years to the elementary schools in Mount Holly, Ludlow, Cavendish and Plymouth as part of its Literacy Improvement Project. Interestingly, Lora Miele commented that “I still have the ones created for my children more than 20 years ago and still enjoy giving it a read now and again!"

In addition to this part of its project, the LRC is also involved, along with Dolly Parton, in the Imagination Library. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth until age 5, no matter their family’s income.

The unique Dolly Parton Imagination Library program mails a new, age-appropriate book into the homes of children every month. Dolly’s Imagination Library is designed to inspire the love of reading in children by spending time with family and friends sharing these wonderful books together.

An easy way to register your preschool child or children for this program is to visit the children’s section of Ludlow’s Fletcher Memorial Library, where there is a display of Imagination Library books and lots of registration cards. Registration cards can also be obtained from the Ludlow Rotary, PO Box 216, Ludlow, VT 05149. The privacy of the children is strictly honored.

The Ludlow Rotary Club meets weekly on Tuesdays at 12:15 at DJ's Restaurant in beautiful downtown Ludlow. Prospective members are welcome to join us for lunch to learn more about our club and howe promote peace, health, education, community projects locally and internationally. Visit us at www.ludlowrotary.com for more info and like us on Facebook!

LUDLOW ROTARY CLUB SEEKING 2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS

Ludlow Area Rotary Club Seeking 2025 Scholarship Applicants

In keeping with its annual goal of rewarding qualified high school seniors, The Ludlow Area Rotary Club (LRC) is encouraging eligible seniors to apply for scholarships to help meet their goals for higher education following graduation from high school this year.

The LRC has awarded over $290,000 in scholarships in the past to students seeking financial assistance for college and advanced trade programs.

Graduating seniors who reside in the LRC area towns of Ludlow, Cavendish, Plymouth, and Mt Holly who plan on pursuing higher education are invited to apply for these scholarships. Such applications may be obtained through the Guidance Office of the student’s high school. They need to be submitted by May 1, 2025 to Timothy Faulkner, Chair of the Ludlow Rotary Scholarship Committee, PO Box 216, Ludlow, VT 05149.

Recipients are selected on the basis of the following criteria: scholastic achievement, financial need, realistic goals, extracurricular activities, and community service.

The scholarships available are:

· Daniel E. Kesman Memorial Scholarship

· Robert W. Kirkbride Rotary Scholarship

· Ralph D. Hogancamp Vocational Scholarship

· Joseph Girouard Scholarship

Daniel Kesman and Ralph Hogancamp were legendary members of the Ludlow Rotary, which is celebrating its 98^th year of service to the community in 2025. Robert Kirkbride was an active member of the Ludlow Rotary for more than 60 years – an amazing record. Jay Girouard helped make the annual Rotary Penny Sale a success.

Applications for these awards are available through the school Guidance Officer and should be submitted to the LRC by May 1, 2025. Awards will be presented at the school’s annual award night program.

It's Penny Sale Time!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, 2025 for our annual penny sale! 6:00 p.m. rain or shine!

Ludlow Rotary Hears Fire Dept
New Equipment needs

At its recent weekly meeting, the Ludlow Rotary Club (LRC) heard from Ben Whelan (pictured above), Ludlow Fire Chief, and that department’s need for new equipment. Whelan discussed the normal life of the various types of equipment needed by Ludlow to deal with fires and property protection. Currently, the department needs to replace aged and, sometimes, non-operative equipment used to fight fires. He presented a slide show that highlighted the new equipment needed as well as the cost and delivery time of it.

A key point in his discussion was the length of time between ordering new equipment and its actual delivery, normally a two-to-three-year period.

The Ludlow Fire Department will be requesting Ludlow to approve the purchase of several important pieces of equipment. Whelan explained the cost of the replacement devices. He estimated that the MSRP for the new gear will be $4,097,039. He indicated that, through discounting, sale of current equipment, and financing arrangements, this price could be

reduced to $3,079,550, a savings of 1,017,489.