I would like to applaud Chrystal Ann Cox for taking the time to write a letter to the editor about her concerns over the portion sizes of current school meals, as published in the February 28th edition. I can assure her that the students and parents are not "being ripped off by their own school and cafeteria," but are following the New Meal Requirements set forth by the USDA for National School Lunch Programs. In an effort put forth by Michelle Obama, portions sizes, calorie allotments and nutritional standards have been modified to help curb the current childhood obesity epidemic.

We, directors of school lunch programs all across the United States, understand the changes can be difficult and maybe a little too strict, but basically our hands are tied. We are communicating our frustrations to the USDA, but in the meantime, locally, we encourage each student to take all the components offered with each meal. In addition, at the middle and high school levels, we offer a side garden salad or soup daily with each student's entrée. In regards to the cost of school lunch, the price is also a mandate of the USDA.

MAUREEN O'NEIL

Food Service Director,

Abbey Food Service

Southwest Vermont Supervisory Union Thanks for your support

I would like to thank those who supported me in my re-election to the Regional Governing Board of the Career Development Center. I will continue to work on the Strategic Planning Committee to plan for the vision and mission of the CDC and also work to increase the number of girls, as well as boys, throughout Bennington County in technical skill training that they can apply in their future careers.

GLORIA E. ALEXANDER

Arlington

Palmer thanks voters

I would like to thank all of the voters that voted for me on March 5th. It is a real honor.

DALE PALMER

Pownal