The Future Depends on Us
Amherst Lake is our home and second home. It's our destination on a beautiful day. It's a haven for wildlife, trees and plants. A great recreational spot, and one of the more tranquil lakes in the area.
We have a shared responsibility to our community to preserve it. That's why we have founded PALVT.org and own the dam.
We are incorporated in the State of Vermont and are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which means all of your donations are tax free.
Our first goal is to preserve the dam as the first step to ongoing community stewardship of the lake - retaining its beauty, enjoyment, ecological health and vitality.
Team
Who We Are
Richard Ruggiano
President
Richard and his wife Kathy bought their dream home on Amherst Lake 16 years ago, attracted by the pristine beauty. Richard is a veteran international insurance executive of more than 35 years and a recently retired elected official. Committed to his community, he has served as a Boy Scout Leader, Eagle Scout Advisor, Soccer Coach, Mason, Shriner, member of the Scottish Rite, and community leader.
Paul Glynn
Treasurer
Paul, Jess and their two young daughters own a property on Amherst Lake. Paul is a small business owner of 20+ years. He and Jess look forward to watching their girls grow up on Amherst lake!
Betsy Neville
Secretary
Betsy and her husband Mike have a house at Hawk. She is the founder and CEO of a strategic communications firm serving both for- and non-profit clients. She and her family are active kayakers and swimmers in Amherst Lake and deeply committed to its future.
Lora Bennett
Member at Large
Lora is a long-time resident of Vermont, a retired teacher who taught in its public schools and who has a house on the Black River. She ran the Hawk Marina for twenty years.
Jess Glynn
Member at Large
Jess, Paul and their two young daughters own a property on Amherst Lake. They look forward to watching their girls grow up on Amherst lake! Jess is a Physician Assistant at a community hospital.
Adam Zakarian
Member at Large
Adam and Kathy are Hawk owners and one of their favorite activities is kayaking on Amherst Lake. Adam has worked primarily in the power generation industry as an engineer and project manager and enjoys participating in non-profit organizations.