Sign of the Times

In what may be a sign of the times, Mendon lost all of its gasoline service last week. One station closed (Gaskell's); the other changed ownership and closed down its full-service pumps (XtraMart) while keeping its convenience store open. Gaskells told community that they pay $45,000 to fill their tank, they realize a $1500 per month profit after paying for the gas and credit card fees. Unfortunately, the higher the sale, the higher the credit card fee, so with the rising gas costs, the usual credit card charge is higher than normal. We've seen signs on some gas stations that offer one price for 'cash' and another for 'credit card'.
Our oil heating company has sent out letters to its customers warning of double costs this winter in comparison with last winter, and urging customers to pay monthly into an escrow fund to prepare. Fortunately, we've already been doing that.
Mendon's annual Horribles Parade was held on July 3...Adriana wore a "Mendon fireman's" costume in the parade. She felt a little uncomfortable since her neighborhood playmates didn't participate and she knew no one. I don't blame her...it's always more fun when you have lots of your friends with you. Our own children remember this yearly parade as another opportunity to see school friends during the summer. A quick moving thunderstorm forced the children and refreshments into the upper town hall...but we did get in the procession down Maple Street before the first roll of thunder.
Summer weather is coming back after a week of high 70s days and cool nights. 90s predicted for the coming week.