Graffiti Defaces
Paines Beach

Vandalism at Paines Beach in South Royalton has been at a minimum for a couple of years and I haven't had to write a letter to the editor to let the public know about it. Now, I feel it necessary to write as we have had some spray-painted graffiti, the first incident of it that we have had in the 10 years I have been taking care of the beach.

It is going to be very difficult to get rid of the graffiti as it was sprayed on several different surfaces, parking lot fence, portable toilet, tables and rubbish cans. It makes the area look very shabby and unkempt!

The reason for spray painting graffiti escapes me and appears to be a very juvenile thing to do. It is ironic that three weeks ago, I attended the South Royalton High School graduation and presented $5000 in scholarships to graduating seniors on behalf of the Lions Club and Masons; this is part of the contributions that the clubs make to assist students in their quest for a college education and a better future for them and their families. On the other hand, we have individuals who can only find time to vandalize facilities that are provided by charitable organizations for use by the general public.

The honorable thing to do would be for the spray painters to come forward, admit their guilt and assist the club in cleaning up the mess that they made. This vandalism has been reported to the police. No charges will be pressed if the vandals come forward; however, if they don't and we learn who they are, charges will be pressed in court.

The Lions Club works hard and commits considerable time and money to make Paines Beach a desirable place for families to take their children. We work hard to keep the area clean and orderly for people who use the facilities; it is disheartening to have the area vandalized and negate our work. Please help us make Paines Beach a place of which we can be proud.

Alfred L. Jones

Heartland Lions Club

South Royalton