Dear Friends,

We have finally had a week of real spring weather with some sunshine and warm temperatures. It is almost like a switch was thrown because all of the trees suddenly have leaves, the mud has dried up and the big apple tree outside my window is covered with blossoms. Lake Champlain is at record flood stage, however, and some homes along the lake are flooded.

A temporary dock had to be created to allow us to board the Northern Lights cruise boat for the VSBR Terry Ehrich Award dinner as the regular dock was under water. Nevertheless, over 110 people managed to get on the boat and the speeches and roastings commenced. I was so proud, so humbled and so honored by the award and the experience.

As I was received the award, I glanced over at Grace and could see her pride and some tears as I gave my talk about the journey that has led me to receive this most prestigious social responsibility award. It was great to be surrounded by friends and family as I talked about the challenges I have faced, and those that VBSR faces going forward. It was a perfect night with a beautiful sunset on the beautiful Lake Champlain.

Our next big eWaste Recycling Event is tomorrow, and I’ll be up at National Life in Montpelier helping out during their Eco Fair by collecting ewaste for free. The event is co-sponsored by Apple and we expect to bring in several truck loads of ewaste. Again with Apple’s support, we will be holding a second eWaste Recycling Event (and our second in NH) at our store in Manchester at the Mall of New Hampshire next week, May 21st. I’ll be there as well, though I have an ulterior motive—I have tickets to see the Red Sox play the Cubs for the first time since 1918!