Joe Carroll

Jun 20, 2024 | wcax.com | Joe Carroll

WALLINGFORD, Vt. (WCAX) - Like so many rescue squads in Vermont, Wallingford relies on volunteers to fill the ranks. And at just a month shy of 79, Ed Dias is the oldest to go out on calls. "This is where I'm at most of the time," Dias said. "I enjoy helping people."Just before the pandemic, Dias approached the rescue squad's Eric Davenport about joining. "First reaction was, he's very interested," Davenport said. "He said, umm, asked me how old I was and all that," Dias recalled.

Jun 13, 2024 | wcax.com | Joe Carroll

BRIGHTON, Vt. (WCAX) - In the Northeast Kingdom town of Brighton, Frank Allard and his nephew-in-law, Scott Chapman, are checking out the war memorial in the village. On one side, the Korean and Vietnam veterans. On the other, the World War II veterans like Allard. "Very patriotic town," Chapman said. "It is," Allard said. Allard is one of the few survivors of the 260 men and women honored in Brighton, but he says the real heroes are the ones that never came back.

Jun 6, 2024 | wcax.com | Joe Carroll

RUTLAND, Vt. (WCAX) - In Rutland, voices of admiration echo throughout the city for Bobby Poquette. "He touches lives and I think, don't we all want that?" said Kay Corio with the American Cancer Society. "The world and our community are better because of Bobby," said Donna Towler, an old classmate. "Love him, love him," said Angie Rivers, a friend. Ask anyone in town who's the most dedicated volunteer and Poquette's name likely will be leading the list. "I like to help other people," Poquette said.

May 30, 2024 | wcax.com | Joe Carroll

BARTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Roy Gero brings machinery back to life. He works for a man in Brownington who collects vintage tractors. On this day, it's a 1938 Case. "I got a note there, I got to tune it up," Gero said. After starting up the tractor, Gero comes up with a diagnosis in short order -- the engine's running rich. "Sputtering a little bit," he said. "Too much gas... 'tain't burning all of it." The plugs need a little cleaning to get the spark back.

May 23, 2024 | wcax.com | Joe Carroll

RUTLAND, Vt. (WCAX) - Rita Brooks and Dave Ballou are regulars at the Bowlerama in Rutland. "It's getting pretty heavy," Brooks says as she picks up a bowling ball from the locker. "I think it gains weight while it sits in here."The two play a few times a week. It's mostly for fun, but not without a healthy dose of competition. Reporter Joe Carroll: You're a better bowler than Dave, I guess, is that accurate? Rita Brooks: Oh yeah. "You're hot today," Ballou said following a few frames.