New and Noteworthy:  Members might want to consider a gift to one or two organizations that directly impact the quality of life at Lake Morey:  the Lake Morey Foundation and the Upper Valley Ambulance.  This coming summer will be challenging as the lake community combats the return of Eurasian milfoil.  Donations to the Lake Morey Foundation (PO Box 234, Fairlee, VT 05045) are tax deductible and will help support milfoil eradication efforts and other lake-oriented initiatives.  Having the Upper Valley Ambulance, a full time emergency medical response team, on the lake is a lifesaving benefit.  Check out their website (www.uppervalleyambulance.com) for donation information.  And as always, many thanks to our members for their ongoing support of the LMPA!

Welcome Message:  First, I would like to thank the Board of Directors for their trust in electing me as President of our lake association.  I will do my best to insure that we adhere to the guiding principles of our 104-year-old charter:  preserving the natural environment of Lake Morey in the Town of Fairlee and its immediate surroundings, safeguarding its health, and promoting the interests of cottages and property owners.

In recent times, families have continued the social gatherings around Lake Morey that our forefathers began.  My observation is that we are becoming a more cohesive group of cottage owners and visitors, and as such are all more in tune with the wealth of recreational opportunities that our lake community affords.  But as a group we also face challenges that threaten the future of the lake.  Even with constant vigilance through our Greeter Program, Adopt-a-Lake and manual control efforts, milfoil has reared its head once again.  This fall a plan was put forth by the Lake Morey Commission and Aquatic Control Technology for a portion of the north end of the lake to be treated next year.  The success of our original treatments lasted longer than predicted but now it is important to eradicate new beds.  The Town of Fairlee has started the process of applying for a State permit to allow for treatment this coming summer.  We will keep you posted in as the approval process moves forward. 

The LMPA Safety Initiative which began last summer will continue with a safety training session planned for late June 2012.  Last year we conducted the basic training portion of the program.  This year we will hold an eight hour class that will result in the issuance of a State of Vermont Boat Operator's License.  This license is now required of all boat operators under the age of 38. The heightened presence of the Vermont State Police on and around Lake Morey will also continue thanks to a new contract with the Town of Fairlee.

The 5th annual Fairlee Family Fun Day, co-sponsored by the LMPA and the Fairlee Recreation Council, will be held July 21st at the Town Beach.  It is an opportunity for the Fairlee community, LMPA members and lake visitors to share waterfront activities with their children and enjoy a BBQ and ice cream social.  Many thanks to all who have volunteered and contributed to this fun-filled day over the years!

I am also pleased to report that membership continues to be strong.  Recent new property owners have become LMPA members.  Our membership now stands at approximately 190.  Many thanks to The Aloha Foundation, Chapman's Store, Holy Mackerel, Fairlee Marine, FARM-WAY, Lake Morey Resort, Martha Diebold Real Estate, Mrs. Chapman's Gift Shop, and Wings Market & Deli for supporting the LMPA as commercial members. 

With winter upon us, I thank you for making 2011 a great and safe year at Lake Morey.  All the best in this new year -- and remember, it's not too long until boats will replace ice fishing huts on the lake!

Bruce Durgin, President, LMPA  (DurginBruce@yahoo.com)