PDF - Sturbridge Times Magazine
Transcription
PDF - Sturbridge Times Magazine
Sturbridge teen’s summer trip to WHY TANTASQUA SHOULD LEAVE THE SOUTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY LEAGUE Page 4 Romania Page 5 VOLUME 1 NUMBER 3 The Sturbridge Times WWW.STURBRIDGETIMES.COM THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER FOR STURBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS USA Page 11 Vino Where to go to taste & know Page 15 MAILED FREE INTO EVERY HOME AND BUSINESS IN STURBRIDGE MASSACHUSETTS THE SEPTEMBER 2007 EDITION Chamber, Town aim to increase tourism, economic development Lt. Joshua Booth Bridge to be dedicated September 30 By Jessica Ann Morris The picturesque green and white historical home at the intersection of Route 20 west and Stallion Hill Road averages more than 75 visitors daily, not because of its attractiveness, but because it’s the center of activity for local commerce. The Sturbridge Visitor Information Center and the local Chamber of Commerce are together at 380 Main Street, and while the structure that houses them is small, the responsibilities shouldered by the two inhabitants is enormous. “Tourism is the third largest industry in Massachusetts and the primary economic engine for Sturbridge,” said Ms. Alexandra E. McNitt, executive director for the Chamber. “Thirty-nine percent of our member base is directly affected by Sturbridge’s tourism success,” she adds. More than 450 Chamber of Commerce members hail from Sturbridge, Southbridge, Charlton, the Brookfields, Spencer, Brimfield, Holland, Wales and northern Connecticut. Annual dues start at $275 and afford networking, service events, insurContinued on Page 12 On Sept. 30, the Holland Rd. Bridge will be dedicated to 2nd Lt. Joshua Booth, the U.S. Marine platoon leader from Sturbridge who was killed 2nd Lt. Joshua Booth in Haditha, Iraq, October 17, 2006. At the time of his death, Lt. Booth was on a mission to build trust between the Marines and the Iraqi people. His company had been deployed to the AnBar Province one month prior to his death. The dedication will coincide with the Gold Star Monument rededication on Sunday, Sept. 30, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Gold Star Mother’s Monument, in front of the Center School. The ceremony will include a roll call and flower laying in front of the new crosses named for Sturbridge veterans who have died in battle. Taps will be played and a firing squad will pay tribute. Families of all veterans will be invited. The group will then re-assemble at the Holland Rd. Bridge for the dedication ceremony to Lt. Booth and plaque unveiling. Jim Glickman, John Stebbins and Christine Tieri are part of the Ted Team. Meet Ted Tantasqua Education Foundation will raise funds to enhance learning By Richard Murphy The sign on the door of your office says emphatically, “No Solicitors.” Some guy comes along and ignores those words. What do you do? If he is selling magazine subscriptions or offers to blacktop your driveway, you have instructed staff to send him packing. What if he is selling your beloved alma mater? That is what happened to Christine Tieri, partner in the Sturbridge advertising agency, Smith & Jones. At her door was John Stebbins, who runs a regional payroll company in Springfield and lives in Sturbridge. While Chris has a son at Burgess Elementary, John has a freshman son and junior daughter at Tantasqua. John had come to Chris’ workplace less to sell than to give Ted. Ted is the nickname given by its marketing-oriented members to the Tantasqua Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. Chris is a Sturbridge native and Tantasqua graduate who, along with her business partner and classmate, Jean Giguere, loved her experience as a Continued on Page 18 A Hometown Newspaper for Sturbridge This newspaper is brought to you by the merchants and services who are advertising in these pages. Please remember this when selecting goods and services. Prsrt. Std U.S. Postage PAID Worcester, MA Permit No. 2 2 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 EDITORIAL A A common good s you read this issue of The Sturbridge Times, I hope you will notice that there is no shortfall in this town of people who step outside their own needs to help other people. In July, Sturbridge teen Kallie Richards boarded a plane for Romania where she hoped to provide comfort and friendship to orphaned children who have not enjoyed the privileges that she knows so well. Here at home, Carol Childress, who has formed and led the Opacum Land Trust, took her passion for the environment, mixed it with her business savvy, and mobilized a small army of do-ers into an Eco-Art Auction that sold 70 items that were made from, or inspired by, nature. Sturbridge residents Pat McGarrah and Tom Chamberland will be at the American Legion Hall on Monday, Sept. 17 at 7:00 p.m. instead of at home, relaxing after work. They will be there to answer any of our questions concerning the trail development plan that promises to enhance the lives of Sturbridge residents for decades to come. Deb Morin has been teaching at the Sturbridge Nursery School for 25 years. In that time, she has given her unique talents to help form hundreds of young lives and enrich generations of Sturbridge residents. These few examples of service are pulled from this one issue of our paper. Obviously, there are many more; actually there are others mentioned in this paper. It is worthwhile to pause occasionally and notice the people around us whose shoulders are to the wheel for our common good. Guest Editorials Tguest editorial in this paper will help us find his newspaper welcomes Guest Editorials. A the Sturbridge “Vox Populi” — or Voice of the People. Here are the rules. You are invited to write about anything that has to do with Sturbridge and Sturbridge life, as long as it is enlightening to all of us, makes good sense, is non-defamatory and is coherent and appropriate enough to be read aloud and understood by most members of a Sturbridge family. Enlighten us with something new. Challenge us all with an idea. Point something out that will help us as neighbors. Give it to us in 350 words or less, sign it and give us your phone number. We look forward to hearing from you. The Sturbridge Times Let’s Talk HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER OF STURBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 01566 USA TO SEND NEWS OR A LETTER TO EDITOR OR A GUEST EDITORIAL PUBLISHED DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF EACH MONTH AT STURBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS PUBLISHER & EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR CONTRIBUTORS PAUL CARR JOHN SMALL RENÉE CANADA TOM CHAMBERLAND JAMES COOKE JESSICA ANN MORRIS RICHARD MURPHY STEPHANIE RICHARDS Please do not send letters for print that you are sending to other newspapers in this area. E-mail: [email protected] or go to www.sturbridgetimes.com and select “Got News?” and write to us there. or write to us at P.O. Box 418 in Sturbridge 01566 or call us at 508-347-7077 TO PLACE ADVERTISING PRINTED AT MASS WEB, AUBURN TO ORDER A DISPLAY AD: Go to www. sturbridgetimes.com and select “Advertise” and then “Order Your Display Ad” (you can order right online) or Call 508-347-7077 TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Go to www.sturbridgetimes.com and select “Advertise” and then “Classifieds” (you can order right online) or Call 508-347-7077. MAILED BY CLARK MAILING COMPANY, WORCESTER See Classified Section in this newspaper for more information. THE STURBRIDGE TIMES P.O. BOX 418, STURBRIDGE, MA 01566 TEL. 508-347-7077 FAX 508-347-8150 WWW.STURBRIDGETIMES.COM DELIVERED INTO EVERY HOME AND BUSINESS IN STURBRIDGE. LIST PROVIDER: ALLMEDIA OF DALLAS, TEXAS RESIDENTIAL LIST UPDATED EVERY 3 MOS. Brevity by Guy and Rodd THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 3 THE VIEW FROM STURBRIDGE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR APPOINTMENT TO AD HOC COMMITTEE SHOULD BE FINALIZED I WATCHED, WITH SOME DISMAY, the proceedings of the most recent Board of Selectmen’s meeting on August 20th during which there were discussions regarding proposed appointments to the Economic Development Commission. Specifically, I was surprised to hear commentary from the B.O.S. regarding their concerns about a proposed appointee, Matt Sosik, who Town Administrator Jim Malloy had recommended to service on the Economic Development Committee. I do not see how or why the B.O.S. would take an official position on an appointment when that appointment is to an ad hoc committee for which the B.O.S. has no appointment confirmation authority. The Town Charter clearly states in section 6-2 Other Appointive Powers that, “The Town Administrator shall have the power to appoint such other individual town officers and members of boards and commissions as are authorized by the General Laws, this charter, or bylaws, and for whom appointment is not otherwise provided.” Of note is that an “Economic Development Commission” is specifically NOT mentioned in the long list of boards and committees that require B.O.S. confirmation (refer to Town Charter section 6-1). I strongly urge Town Administrator Jim Malloy to finalize the appointment process of Mr. Sosik — and all other proposed appointees — as it is his statutory authority to do so. JENNIFER MORRISON Sturbridge Ed. Note: Ms. Morrison has written as a private citizen. She is a member of the Sturbridge Planning Board. TELEVISED ACCESS AIDS IN LOCAL DEMOCRATIC PROCESS IN MARCH OF THIS YEAR I ASKED A SELECTMAN why the Conservation Commission meetings were not televised and was simply told “I don’t know”, to which I indicated additional information would be appreciat- ed. To my knowledge, neither I nor the town has received an appropriate answer. Certainly any group that has the statutory authority to levy decisions upon residents has an obligation to be as accessible to the public as possible. This concept is surely a motivating influence behind the televised broadcasts of the B.O.S., ZBA, and the Planning Board meetings. Residents and B.O.S. members alike will recall that in the Fiscal ’07 Finance Committee report, released in April 2006, the FinCom stated that, “Accurate, relevant information on numerous and often new subjects must reach the townspeople at a timely moment. Otherwise, there is little chance for sound decision-makContinued on Page 4 4 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 THE VIEW FROM STURBRIDGE ConCom, other town committee meetings should be televised Continued from Page 3 ing. A steady flow of the latest verified information belongs on community access cable television. We recommend a reconfiguring of the meetings of all Town boards, committees and commissions to maximize the televising of those meetings”. Given the concerns raised by the FinCom and lack of public accessibility residents have to ConCom meetings, I am sufficiently concerned that neither this report, nor the question posed by me and others has yet to be satisfactorily addressed. Certainly the ConCom’s robust meeting agenda which necessitates the scheduling and conducting of business well past 10:00 p.m. cannot be considered publicly accessible to the general public as a whole given the competing demands on resident’s time. Where the technology already exists in the Town Hall meeting room (where ConCom meetings are conducted), I am at a loss to understand the reasoning behind the failure to televise these meetings. Certainly the residents of Sturbridge deserve the right to actively participate and monitor government proceedings from the safety and comfort of their homes should they desire such, again when and where the technology exists. Consider as well the demands upon families, older, or incapacitated residents who are unable to make the trek to Town Hall and the challenges they face in maintaining access to public proceedings. One would surely think that we have a responsibility to make public meetings truly publicly accessible. In a 1772 journal entry John Adams wrote that “There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty". Sufficiently concerned and experienced with the predisposition of men in power to be influenced by special interests while simultaneously becoming intoxicated with power, Mr. Adams and the founding fathers knew all too well the personal limitations of government officials. Years later in a letter dated April 15, 1814, John Adams would further state that “Democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts and murders itself. There was never a democracy that did not commit suicide". John Adams understood the proclivity for man to become uninterested with the day to day functions of government, as the competing demands of daily living shifted focus to the task of survival. Thus, the small, seemingly insignificant acts of governmental representatives beyond the public view might well lay the foundation for abuses or special interest lobbying. By the time this imbalance was noticed, one would have traveled the road too far to recognize the level of power seeded to OPINION SPORTS others. This would cause democracy to “exhaust and murder itself”. It is the responsibility and right of every resident to carefully scrutinize government, particularly locally, as it is at that level that the majority of us are affected. THOMAS R. CREAMER Fiskdale Ed. Note: Mr. Creamer has written as a private citizen. He chairs the Sturbridge Planning Board. JAMES COOKE Why Tantasqua sports should leave the S.W.C. League ast year, the Tantasqua Boys Basketball team generated pride for the school and excitement for the region when it won the state title in Division 2. That was indeed quite an accomplishment as it was only the third time in the school's 50-year history that a Tantasqua sports team has won a state title. Compared to other regional high schools of its size, Tantasqua lacks state trophies for athletic achievement. The time has come then to build on that momentum from winning a state title in basketball and create a winning sports tradition at the high school. Unfortunately, Tantasqua's current participation in the Southern Worcester County League (SWCL) does not provide the strong level of competition for the school's sports team to ensure continued success in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) state tournaments. All the other Tantasqua sports teams compete in the Division 1 category with L the exception of boys' basketball and football. Yet there's only other Division I school in the SWCL Shepherd Hill Regional in Dudley. In order to compete successfully in the state athletic competition, it's important that Tantasqua face Division 1 teams during the regular season. Given the school's enrollment - about 1300 students Tantasqua will find itself playing in the Division I category for the foreseeable future. (The MIAA assigns to sports teams to Division I, II or III categories, usually based on school population, although many athletic powerhouses in Central Massachusetts such as St. John's, St. PeterMarian and Holy Name High Schools with lower student enrollment than Tantasqua's play up in D1.) Frankly, it's surprising given the school's enrollment that the MIAA lets the boys' basketball team play D2. With those two exceptions boy's basketball and football -- all the other Tantasqua boys and girls teams are unprepared for state competition because they don't play enough tough D1 teams. Take last year's boys' soccer team as an example. During the regular 2006 season, the team crushed SWCL opponents like Southbridge and David Prouty. Although Tantasqua was seeded Number 1 in the Division I District playoffs for boys' soccer, it got ousted in the first game by a lower-seeded opponent. The soccer team should have faced tough D1 opponents to prepare itself for the state playoffs. Where would Tantasqua go if it left the SWCL League? If the goal was to minimize travel and costs, then Tantasqua should go play in the Western Mass Pioneer Valley League. The reason is that Tantasqua (which has three of its member towns in Hampden County) is more close to the D1 schools in the Springfield area than it is to suburban D1 schools in Worcester County, which tend to lie east and north of the city of Continued on Page SUMMER What I did THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 5 VACATION A VACATION EXPERIENCE WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE Sturbridge teen finds her Mission on a trip to Romania 14-year-old Kallie Richards went to Prague during her 9-day visit to Romania. Inset shows Kallie, center, with two Romanian students, LaLa, left and Betty, right. BY RENÉE CANADA When summer hits, many kids take advantage of the beautiful weather and the freedom from long school days to soak up the sunrays and just have fun. But Sturbridge teen Kallie Richards decided at least nine of her days this summer would have a greater purpose. On July 3, she began her journey to Romania quite literally with a mission. She, along with 45 others were a part of a mission trip led by Global Expeditions, a ministry of Teen Mania, to Oradea, a city on the western border of Romania. The group was originally expected to head to orphanages and hospitals to visit with the local children, but when they arrived to town, the government quickly forced a change to their plans. Although Romania has been liberated from its status as a communist police state, the government turned down the group’s request. “We tried ministering for one day and then the government wouldn’t let us any longer,” Kallie says. After her team got to know the translators who accompanied them on the entire trip, they focused on learning about the people and the culture of the area. “I was originally kind of upset because one of the main reasons I went on the trip was because I knew most of the kids had been there [at the orphanages] for long periods of time. While they have guardians, they don’t get the love and attention of parents,” Kallie explained, showing a maturity that transcends her young age of 14 (she was just 13 at the time of the trip). “I was looking forward to playing with the children in the orphanages and thought they’d be happy to have us visit.” But Kallie knew not to take the change of plans personally. 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Right on the border with Hungary, Oradea has a large Hungarian population and is officially bilingual in Romanian Continued on Page 16 BACK-TO-SCHOOL L E S S O N S Fiddle, Mandolin, Drums, Piano, Guitar, Flute, Bass Guitars, Mandolins, Violins starting at $99 THE FIDDLE CENTER (508) 347-9511 1-800-222-5930 Check out our website at www.sturbridgetravel.com for our weekly specials 128 Main St., Sturbridge Professional Center, Sturbridge 300 East Main St (Rt. 9) East Brookfield 508-867-6600 www.fiddlecenter.com NEW GODIN ELECTRIC GUITARS NOW IN! BOARDWALK PLAZA 6 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 500 MAIN STREET, STURBRIDGE Come in and see Missy or Suzanne and learn about our latest interest rates and programs. 500 Main Street, Sturbridge, Massachusetts Sturbridge Tel. 508-347-1821 Fax 508-347-1820 Candy&Gift S FUN GIFT & E U IQ UN YONE! FOR EVER COLD BEER FINE WINE FULL LIQUOR Hours Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Kitchen Closed 11:30-9pm 11:30-9pm 11:30-9pm 11:30-10pm 11:30-10pm 11:30-9pm Bar Closed 11:30-10pm 11:30-10pm 11:30-10pm 11:30-12am 11:30-12am 11:30-9pm Luncheon Special: Pizza by the Slice until 4 pm 500 Main Street Sturbridge 508-347-1740 Open Daily 508-347-3642 CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS • JEWELRY • DECORATIVE TILES JOURNALS • MUGS • CARDS • FAIRY FIGURINES AND MORE ... Boardwalk Plaza 500 Main Street (Rte. 20) Sturbridge 20/20 SPECIAL 20% OFF Park Place Hair Salon At The Boardwalk Plaza Join Curves now and get 30% off the service fee, plus your first 30 days free. Discover how 30 minutes is all it takes to get a total body workout with our total support. 500 Main St. Fiskdale (508) 347-5101 ANY PURCHASE OVER $20 OFFER EXPIRES SEPT. 30, 2007 * Offer based on first visit enrollment, minimum 12 mo. c.d. program. Not valid with any other offer. New members only. Valid only at participating locations through 11/11/07. ©2007 Curves International. SUMMER THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 7 What I did VACATION Tantasqua sophomore Amber Reilly takes on the AAU Jr. Olympic Games By Renée Canada Fifteen-year-old Amber Reilly is not so different from most girls her age. When she hangs out with her friends, she loves to go shopping and have sleepovers. She's been spending much of her last days of summer swimming, wakeboarding, and tubing. That is, however, when she’s not spending hours at the gym. As a competitive gymnast, Amber spends a lot of her hours at the gym--up to 12 hours a week-and it certainly has paid off. This past July at the AAU Junior Olympic Games in Knoxville, TN, Amber placed fourth on the balance beam in her age division and seventh overall in events for her age division. Amber, along with seven others from the Over the Top Gymnastics Academy, also in Worcester, went to Knoxville. Their team finished first in the Team Dance competi- From July 27 to 31, Amber Reilly was in Knoxville, TN representing “Team New England” at the AAU Junior Olympic Games. You might recognize her as a cheerleader for the Tantasqua Varsity Basketball team. tion, bringing home the gold. Started in 1967 in Washington D.C., the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Junior Olympics is the largest multi-sport event for youth in the United States. Its inaugural games included 523 athletes competing in just swimming and track and field. Today the competition has the participation of over 16,000 participants in over 20 sports. This year the event was held in Knoxville from July 27th to July 31st, 2007. Amber qualified for the gymnastics portion of competition in May at Paramount Gymnastics Academy in Swansea, and from there, she was put into one of two teams according to her score. Her regular AAU season finished at the end of May and she started training for the Junior Olympics at Paramount immediately afterward until the end of July. "So instead of starting and learning new tricks [as I usually do at the end of a season], I just did the same routines over and over again," Amber explains with a laugh. A dance instructor came to Over the Top in January and choreographed all the team's routines. The head coach for the cheerleaders who used to share their gym also helped in coming up with their dances. The girls chose Cirque du Soleil for their theme. Continued on Page 24 “Cedar Street is gourmet greatness” The Phantom Gourmet “A glorious and far-reaching menu of carefully chosen, creative and varied dishes.” Matt Quinn, Worcester Magazine “Dinner at a place like Cedar Street (and there aren’t many) is good for the soul.” Bill Cory, Telegram & Gazette NEW SUMMER MENU Dinner daily from 5:00 Reservations highly recommended A New Flavor Every Season With fresh world influences, our menu takes on a new flavor every season. If America is a melting pot, this is what real American food is. 12 CEDAR STREET STURBRIDGE MASSACHUSETTS CEDAR street restaurant www.cedarstreetrestaurant.com 508-347-5800 8 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 Meet the man who gives us Cedar Street Restaurant The Interview Many Sturbridge residents consider Cedar Street Restaurant to be one of the town’s culinary treasures. Non-Sturbridgers talk about the place and travel great distances to enjoy its fresh, sophisticated cuisine. Bill Nemeroff bought the place three years ago and has transformed it from a restaurant to a Sturbridge attraction. When did you know you were going to become a chef? Probably when I was about 13. Believe it or not, that’s when I had my first restaurant job. Where was that? A place in Virginia Beach called Frankie’s Place for Ribs. It was a very touristy place. Very popular. A real high-volume restaurant. At 13-years-old, what did they have you doing at Frankie’s? BILL NEMEROFF “Today, when I go out to eat I look at the dessert menu first.” I started as a dishwasher. Then they promoted me to fry cook, which was a huge deal for that place. It was an unusual situation because of my age and the fact that back then in the restaurant industry line cooks were very hardened people and not always law-abiding. I wasn’t supposed to be working but the guy who ran the restaurant was my mother’s boyfriend. I worked there longer than anyone, including the general manager, which was pretty extreme. By the time I turned 15, I had become the de facto kitchen manager. Anyway, early on I knew that cook- STURBRIDGE TIMES PHOTO BY JOHN SMALL Cedar Street Restaurant ing was going to be a major part of my life. When I went to college at Old Dominion I decided to study Geology Education, so that I could teach and have weekends and summers off so I could also cook in a restaurant. My mother was telling my I had to prepare for a ‘real job,’ but I wanted to be a chef. This was in the days before the Food Network. I really wanted to be a chef because I liked to cook. How did you face up to the fact that Geology wasn’t going to be it for you? My father was sick. He said: ‘Life is short; do what makes you happy.’ I still follow that advice. Today, when I go out to eat I look at the dessert menu first. There really was no choice. What made me happy was the fast-paced atmosphere of a restaurant kitchen and that experience can’t be recreated anywhere else. What helped you choose Johnson & Wales in Charleston, S.C. for your training? It just made good sense. I’m a southern boy and Charleston is the capital of the south as far as food goes. Johnson & Wales had a school there so it was the right thing to do. Does the city have a strong influence on the school? All of the aspects of Charleston, from the hospitality, the culture and the history — it all makes for interesting cuisine. I draw a lot from that. The French side of it. My mother’s family is French, My father’s family was Russian. So all of the culture mix between southern and french cuisine, it all became a labor of love. A lot of braising. We didn’t concern ourselves with calories; we made food so that it tasted good. So, you were a classmate of Tyler Florence? Yes. It’s amazing that two guys can leave the same school and one of them gets picked up by a national TV network. Actually, Tyler and I went two different routes. As soon as he finished he went off to publish his cookbook. I went off to cook. This worked out great for him and catapulted him into the limelight. Continued on next page THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 9 Bill Nemeroff Continued from previous page Actually, I don’t remember him much at school. Some of my roommates worked with him at a place called Blossoms and I guess he didn’t make much of an impression on them either. What was your first job out of Johnson & Wales? I worked while I was in school full time. Had some great jobs. I worked in a cajun restaurant where I learned how to make authentic cajun and creole cuisine. I also worked at a yacht club where I developed skills in catering to guests. I worked for a time at The Mills House Hotel, the only fivestar hotel in Charleston. Right out of school almost instantly I was picked up by a restaurant called Andiamo here in Massachusetts, in Bernardston. I was appointed as general manager and executive chef of this 300-seat restaurant. I was young right out of culinary school, and didn’t have much management experience but they wanted someone young and unconnected—no wife, no kids. I stayed there for four years and received a lot of experience • • • • there. The owners were very handsoff. It’s also the place where I met my wife. She worked there for a while and then I had to let her go (chuckle). Experience History ... In a casual atmosphere Is there a point in a chef’s career when you know you’re ready to own your own place and that’s the only choice for you? I don’t think anyone is ever really ready. You just have to jump into it and do what feels best. By never compromising on your integrity, the food, and eventually you, will have some success. Maybe not financially, but you’ll build a reputation. People will recognize that you know what you’re doing. If you want, you can leave it and start something else. I really don’t know that anyone is ever ready to do this. You have to experience it to know. It’s a tough business. You know that every day is Thanksgiving at the Publick House. But after serving guests for 236 years, our culinary staff has taken traditional favorites and added a modern twist. Experience our innovative menu for yourself. Visit www.publickhouse.com to view our complete menu. Present this to your server for 25% off your meal. Valid on Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner in the Historic Dining Room Only. Discount on food only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or special. Not valid on Twilight Dinner menu. ST Valid between 9/1/07 and 9/30/07 What is the toughest part? Keeping yourself motivated. Constantly having to be on your toes. I enjoy watching trends and developing new flavors. On the Common, Route 131 — Sturbridge, MA 508-347-3313 www.publickhouse.com Continued on Page 10 Wireless Data Cell Phone, PDAs & Blackberry Wireless Internet Wireless Accessories Sunset Bar & Patio Now Open 420 Main Street, Sturbridge 508-347-3335 128 Main Street (Rte. 131) STURBRIDGE, MA 01566 www.amcommwireless.com 508-347-0008 BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL COUPON GET AN ADDITIONAL $5 OFF Expires 10/31/07 ALL PRODUCTS Tuesday - Saturday Lunch 11:30-3 • Dinner 5-9 Sunday Dinner All Day 12-8 Closed Monday New Lighter Fare Menu Upstairs Served daily at 3 pm MARTINI ROOM & RAW BAR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT THURS.-SAT. Great Steaks • Fresh Seafood Perfect Martinis • Fantastic Wines Nightly Dinner Specials WORCESTER MAGAZINE www.perennials—dining.com 10 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 A conversation will Bill Nemeroff, chef-owner of Cedar Street Restaurant Continued from Page 9 Your menu changes with each season. Would you say that your dishes are inspired by the seasons? Yes. Seasons as well as local flavors. I work with local farmers and people who grow herbs. One guy in Sturbridge, who doesn’t live far from here, sells me a pound of Morell mushrooms that grow around one of his trees. You can never get Morell mushrooms this fresh anywhere. There’s another guy who grows chervil, fresh and abundant. He brings it over and it ends up in our food. How did you find Cedar Street Restaurant? My wife is from this area. We had our first child in Virginia Beach. My family in Virginia is small; she has such a large family; we wanted to be near all of that. Her mother lived in West Brookfield. Just by visiting the area often we knew that Sturbridge had a lot of culture and history and people coming through with the Pike and Rt. 84 merging here. Cedar Street already had a good reputation and I knew that I wanted a small, older house that was converted into a restaurant. I didn’t want a place with a bar because I didn’t want that to influence the people that would come in for the food. It was a nice New England place with a good location. Would you say that there are flavors that are indigenous to New England? The people who come from outside New England are looking for clam chowder and lobster. When I go down south, I notice that one in five restaurants has lobster. People are looking for lobster everywhere. But the interesting thing is that much of New England is a melting pot because of the various cultures that have settled here. Down south you’ll find southerners with the southern culture. You don’t find so much of a melting pot down there as you do here. Around here, the cuisine takes on the flavors of the various communities. You think about the large Italian communities, Quality, Convenience, & Personal Service 570 Main Street Route 20 Sturbridge/ Fiskdale, MA 508-347-0116 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-7 Sat 9-6 Sun 9-5 — High Quality Meats — Fresh Seafood — Boars Head Deli Meats — Frozen Foods & Ice Creams — Dairy Products — Hand Selected Produce — Fresh Baked Breads — Cold Beer, Sodas & Juices — Domestic & Imported Wines — Selected Groceries & Supplies and the large Brazilian community in Worcester—a little of that comes into the food. Your restaurant attracts people who have a strong appreciation for wine. Please tell us about the relationship between your food and good wine. They go hand-in-hand. Sitting down and eating a meal is an experience; it’s not just filling your stomach. Obviously you need a beverage with the meal. The experience is enhanced when we pair nuances of certain wines as complements to the food. You, and others here in town, have played a strong role in the fact that Sturbridge has become a regional destination for good food. With this success, what are your ambitions for Cedar Street Restaurant? Someone asked me this recently. I’ve been here for three years and the first two years we were merely building a reputation; now we’re 29 Brookfield Road (Rte. 148) Sturbridge, MA 508-347-0017 Full Service Bike Shop Full Service Pro Skate Board Shop Lowest Prices on Parts and Service in the Area Featuring: JAMIS, KHS, NIRVE, EASTERN, STOLEN FREE AGENT, ELLSWORTH Bike Parts featured on ASUBike.com BACK-TO-SCHOOL BACKPACKS T-SHIRTS OTHER APPAREL Monday-Friday 10-7 Saturday 10-6 getting phone calls from purveyors who wouldn’t ordinarily come to a place as remote as Sturbridge. For instance, Cambridge Meat Packaging, which is the largest supplier of kobe beef on east coast, called me one day and told me they’d be willing to stop in Sturbridge. We’re purchasing meat from them now. Now we have seafood that is flown-in 2-day air from Hawaii. You can’t get tuna as fresh from Boston harbor because the boat has been out there for days and they have to travel a full day just to get to where the tuna can be line caught. In Hawaii, once a tuna is line caught it goes to market and can be on our plates within two days. We get big eye tuna because we feel the quality is better. There’s a lot of process and careful precision involved in getting that one dish on the table here at Cedar Street. Although we get a lot of our business from outside of our 40-mile radius, we are a neighborhood restaurant. Cedar Street Restaurant, 12 Cedar Street, Sturbridge. Tel. 508347-5800. THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | AUGUST 2007 11 25 years of service to Sturbridge families and the little ones she launched on their way Deb Morin marks 25 years of teaching ABCs By Stephanie Richards As Deb Morin talks about teaching preshoolers during the last 25 years, you see the excitement in her eyes as if she was just beginning her career. “Since the age of three, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Morin, director of Sturbridge Nursery School, said. “Preschool and kindergarten were nonexistent when I was growing up. But my cousin and I would play school, making up names and things to do. I loved playing school.” Established in 1967, Sturbridge Nursery School is accredited by the National Academy for Education of Young Children and offers two-day and three-day programs for three- to five-year olds. It is a cooperative program where parents commit to helping in the classroom for two weeks and assisting in areas like raking leaves, shoveling snow and fundraising initiatives. Morin is a believer in the cooperative experience because it creates a special bond like a family. “You really don’t see a lot of cooperatives around. I love it because the children see parents giving their time and it tells them that they are important and education is important at an early age,” she said. “And there have been many longtime friendships that began here.” That special bond has made a difference most recently Morin said as two families were impacted by tragic events. A few years ago, a student’s mom had cancer and died. More recently, fouryear old Christian Frechette, who was in the two-day class, drowned. Morin commented how supportive parents of students were to these families, “because it is like a family.” And there is no question that the kids are the focal point for Morin’s love of teaching. “On my self-evaluation every year, I always put down the best part of teaching is the interaction with the kids. The chemistry of each group is different every year. I really learn from them too,” she Deb Morin Sturbridge Nursery School said. “It is always exciting to see a shy child that suddenly joins in—he or she has finally reached a comfort level.” New initiatives as well as traditions help make each new school year diverse for Morin as well. “We have established some traditions, like our Thanksgiving Feast and Mother’s Day Tea. The children do everything from cooking to serving and in the process learn things like left to right progression, science and measuring,” she said. More recently, preschoolers in the program have benefited from music enrichment through a state grant as part of the Union 61 Community Partnership Council. And a field trip to local dentist, Dr. Thomas Boccia’s office, helps to calm their fears while they learn about dental health. Morin has seen a lot of things change in the last 25 years, especially in the lives of preschoolers. “Preschoolers are a lot smarter now. They are exposed to a lot more with technology and tools that are geared toward learning. And there is more diversity in the makeup of children than there was,” Morin, who has two grandchildren, said. “There are more moms working now and we see greater participation from dads helping out in the classroom and going on field trips.” There are many sweet moments that Morin can recount over the years but one in particular holds a special place in her heart. “I remember in one class, there were six kids sitting at a small table. One of the kids called me ‘mom’ by mistake. I told him that I am a mom too and a teacher. One of the little girls at the table said ‘you mean you are a mom and a teacher. Then your dream came true!’ And she was right,” Morin said. Sturbridge Coffee Roasters Meet Rita Schiano at September 22 book signing turbridge author, Rita Schiano will be signing her new book, “Painting the Invisible Man,” on Saturday, September 22 at Sturbridge Coffee Roasters, 212 Hamilton Street, Southbridge from noon to 3:00 p.m. The book is available at www.reededwards.com and also at Garieri Jewelers, Bedrock Plaza (Rte. 131) in Sturbridge. S STURBRIDGE 12 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 BUSINESS Chamber: looking to bring in the right businesses Continued from Page 1 ance discounts, committee participation, newsletters, education and training, and other benefits. Ms. McNitt, originally from Woodstock, Connecticut and now a West Brookfield resident, has an extensive hospitality background. Before venturing on her current journey as Executive Director, she spent 12 years at Harvard University as Director of Marketing and Communications for Dining Services. “It was important to find a job that meant something to me,” she explained. “Here I can serve the area where I grew up and have always cared about.” Ms. McNitt inherited a number of tourism and economic development challenges when taking office in 2006. “The Chamber was in a bit of disarray as there really wasn’t a foundation for processes,” said Ms. McNitt. “This first year is about reestablishing how we can better serve members, as well as increase membership and volunteerism.” Providing support to Ms. McNitt is the only other Chamber staff member, Ms. Marta B. Davis of Fiskdale. Hired in early 2007, Ms. Davis serves primarily the tourists and residents that arrive at the Visitor Information Office. “Just recently we’ve had folks from Germany and England stop in for information, but people who live here come in to find out what’s going on as well,” said Ms. Davis. “The top tourist questions are: ‘Where is Old Sturbridge Village?’ and ‘Where can we turn around when driving on Route 20?’” With Sturbridge’s heavy reliance on tourism, hotel vacancies paint a confusing picture for visitors and residents. “The economic health of Sturbridge can be improved and there needs to be a plan on how to address area vacancies,” commented Ms. McNitt. “We’ve had numerous conversations with the administrator, selectmen and Planning Board, and steps are being taken to research what’s going on and how economic health can be sustained.” According to Sturbridge Town Administrator, Mr. James J. Malloy, the research underway is driven by a newly-created Economic Development Committee that “inventories vacant places and works with companies to locate here.” “We’re also working with Old Sturbridge Village on the Sturbridge Heritage Preservation Partnership, which is a combination of area interest groups, in order to identify what kinds of businesses we want to attract and how to market to them,” explained Mr. Malloy. “The Continued on next page Sturbridge Rotary honored by Rotary International The Presidential Citation is given to local clubs by the president of Rotary International where the clubs have met multiple goals in each of the following areas: Membership Growth, Club Service, Community Service, Vocational Service, International Service and Youth activities. The sitting District Governor is required to validate the achievements and distribute the award at the end of a Rotary year. The specific goals change a little each year based on the priorities set by the Rotary International president, but are intended to encourage clubs to participate in a broad range of activities. The award received by the Sturbridge club was signed by Bill Boyd, Rotary International President 2006-2007. RECOGNIZING ACHIEVEMENTS WHILE SERVED AS THE DICK VAUGHN CLUB’S PRESIDENT Sturbridge Rotary past President Richard Vaughan, District Governor Elect, Klaus Hachfeld and President Robert Sparrow. Looking for competitive rates on your insurance costs? Call or visit our Sturbridge office located at 54 Main Street and speak with Kathy Gallant or Peg Predella. Kathy and Peg have been providing “first-in-class” service for over 20 years! We represent over 50 insurance carriers and would be happy to provide you with a competitive quote We have several group auto discounts available. Eastern Insurance Group LLC 54 Main Street — Cedar Court — Sturbridge, MA 01566 Phone 508-347-1234 — Fax 508-347-3044 STURBRIDGE THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 13 BUSINESS Economic development Continued from previous page report is due in the fall of 2007.” Mr. Malloy is quick to note that things are not always what they seem. For example, he did not see the increase in area newspapers as a reflection of town health. “A lot more paper is being delivered that I have to recycle and it’ll be interesting to see which ones survive,” he said. Furthermore, Mr. Malloy urges people to look for reasons beyond the vacancy signs. Vacancies are not always related to a town issue, says Malloy. “Often businesses change town location, there is a landlord/lessee dispute, or as in the case with Basketville, stores become catalogue-driven and simply exit their buildings,” he said. Mr. Malloy and Ms. McNitt hope the research will identify the types of businesses that will best serve the greater Sturbridge community. “If the study finds there is a saturation of high-end restaurants, it’ll help determine our direction,” said Mr. Malloy. “Sturbridge needs to be vigilant in attracting the right venues, but not at any cost. A healthy local economy is always on the town’s agenda.” “It doesn’t seem that, in the past, Sturbridge has made a concerted effort on this, but it has recently lost business tax income,” observed Ms. McNitt. “It’s a tricky situation to find the balance between big box stores and boutique businesses that better blend with the landscape. The Economic Development Committee needs to be empowered to bring in the appropriate businesses.” Ms. McNitt said the Chamber is aligned with the town’s desires and wants to be a helpful resource to all in the area. “The Chamber’s long-term plan for success is not limited to Sturbridge,” she said. “The most positive thing is that there appears to be a growing energy and enthusiasm for members to get involved in the economic development health of the area, which will certainly be affected by how much the commuContinued on Page 20 Ben Houston from Pioneer Oil Co. addresses the Community Business Associates at a recent meeting. Community Business Associates: there for each other—and for us At a recent meeting of Community Business Associates (CBA) in Sturbridge, the small business networkers discussed the ineffective prerace publicity for the recent Pan-Mass Challenge — the Jimmy Fund bike-a-thon that starts in Sturbridge. After a brief discussion, the members agreed to identify ways to augment the publicity efforts for the event next year. While this was not an agenda item, it is clearly the kind of commerce issue that interests this small business networking group. CBA members come from all business arenas, from oil service to banking. They show up for 7:00 a.m. meetings on the first and third Thursday of each month at the Hampton Inn, where they make contacts, help and encourage one another, and explore ways to contribute collectively (through their dues) to a person or place of need. Last winter, they purchased a tank of oil for a Sturbridge resident in need. Those interested in membership to this organization should call the group’s president, B arbara Yeager at 508-347-3121. LUNCHEON BUFFET Monday to Friday 11:30-2:00 $7.95 15 CHOICES Including Desserts 179 Main Street, Sturbridge 14 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 WALDEN POND STUR BRIDGE Trekker september DAY TRIP TOUCHING THOREAU’S CONCORD nce a t s i D om fr DGE: I BR R U T S STURBRIDGE TIMES PHOTOS BY JOHN SMALL 5 While unseen walkers saunter off and on the well-tended paths of Walden Pond, a cluster of folks relax along the waterfront at the pond’s Main Beach one recent Sunday afternoon. The beach is located at the east end of the pond, nearest the parking area and the replicated site of Thoreau’s cabin. The wooded section in the upper-right corner of the photo is the actual location of Thoreau’s historic shelter. SPIRING WRITER, HENRY DAVID THOREAU was living with his parents when their financial circumstances required that they fill their home with lodgers. This frustrated Thoreau, who needed peace and quiet for his writing and reflection. After recalling a visit he had made to the woodsy cabin retreat of his Harvard College classmate Charles Stearns Wheeler, Thoreau realized that living in such a place would solve many of his problems; but how would he do this— and where? It so happened that Thoreau’s good friend and mentor, Ralph Waldo Emerson, owned a small plot of land on Walden Pond. Emerson gladly gave his young friend permission to build a cabin on that site and, on July 4, 1845, Thoreau moved there, where he remained until 1847. Actually, Thoreau was going for more than a writer’s peace when he built his cabin. While there, he had intended to finish his first book, titled “A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers” but he was also interested in conducting an economic experiment. Was it possible to thrive while working just one day a week and spending the other six in transcen- A s e l i 9m dental pursuits? This sort of living was in perfect opposition to the six-day work week endured by his family and New England neighbors. The answer to the experiment, as we know readily, depends on one’s cost of living. One year into his Walden experience, Thoreau was taken from his retreat and arrested for failing to pay a poll tax. His one night in jail catalyzed his essay “Resistance to Civil Government,” which became later more widely known as his “Civil Disobedience”. During that period, he made his first visit from Concord to Mount Katahdin in Maine, a place which became the backdrop of future Thoreau writing. This second year of living at the pond was also when Thoreau began work on his second book, “Walden,” which he wrote as a series of notes responding to the insufferable questions by townspeople about what he was doing in the woods. After leaving Walden Pond, Thoreau moved in with Emerson for a couple of years, and then back to his parents for the remainder of his relatively short life. He traveled to Maine, Cape Cod, Minnesota and Canada. Many people don’t know that Thoreau spent much of his life working in his parent’s pencil factory. Ironically, the brilliant Thoreau was well-suited to the facile and uncomplicated yet productive work. He was most at peace after finding the lowest common denominator in things, striving for simplicity and eschewing the stress of conventional living. He died in Concord at age 44 of tuberculosis. EPTEMBER IS A SPLENDID MONTH IN WHICH TO VISIT WALDEN POND. This is when a spontaneous afternoon swim is still possible and the leaves have begun to radiate their fall beauty. It is also the time of year when the physical world reminds us of the splendor and fragility of life, when we mark our days and question how we spend our time. While we may have more solitary and just-as-beautiful trails right here in Sturbridge, there can be unexpected pleasures found in catching the scent of pine on one’s fingers while touching the places where Thoreau found his lonely path to peace. — Paul Carr S Shops along Concord’s Main Street face the intersection with Walden Street. The downtown area offers a fine New England stroll for day trippers and, for shoppers, high-quality buys for a variety of goods from jewelry to duck decoys. Lunch or supper at the Colonial Inn, located a few blocks up from these shops, completes the experience but is no more satisfying than our own Publick House. Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) Thoreau statue stands patiently in front of the replica of his cabin. S E L E C T E D Q U O T E S Thoreau Fare “To be awake is to be alive. I have never yet met a man who was quite awake.” “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand ... Simplify, simplify.” “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.” THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 15 here is a twice-yearly event in Sturbridge that you might not be aware of. It is the Grand In-Store Wine Tasting at Yankee Spirits, the most recent of which took place on a Sunday a few weeks ago. Several years ago, I don't remember how many, I happened to be going into Yankee Spirits for a routine purchase and, at the door, a woman asked if I was there for the wine tasting. Fortunately, it was my day for making the right on-the-spot decisions and I haven’t missed many of these Yankee Spirits events since. When you enter, a small suggested donation is requested (to benefit of a local charity.) You are then given a numbered book listing over 150 wines that are there for the tasting. I don't know anyone who has ever tasted all of the wines; one can only imagine the record for tasting the most and how straight that person was walking afterward. At the most recent event a few weeks ago, one of the first tables in the room was an interesting display of Red Sox Wines. Just the name conjures men in baseball uniforms putting aside bat and glove to prune vines, pick fruit and work the presses. Ah, not really. This is actually a charitable venture with bottles labeled after three sox players and $1.25 of each sale donated to their favorite charity. The folks in Tuscany and Provence will not quake in fear, but it is all in good fun and helps good causes. The next table did not bear sampling wine, but food. Chef William Nemeroff’s Cedar Street Restaurant sent James Talaga to serve a Cuban Barbecue Sandwich of smoked brisket on top of a sour dough toast point with a mojo dressed slaw. That was not all for food. Further on in the store, another Sturbridge landmark, the Publick House, was represented by Babelyth Alvardo and Alex Riddle who provided tasters with lobster rolls. T Vino Above left, this was Matt Dorment’s sixth Yankee Spirits wine tasting experience. At center, Yankee Spirits wine manager, Joe Astukewicz. Above right, Dee King, partner at Cafe Europa. F O R T H O S E W H O L O V E BY RICHARD MURPHY Of course, we were there to sample fruit of the vine and the wines were supposed to be the stars of the show, and they were. However, the folks, staffing the tables in many cases had some engaging tales of how they got there. Perhaps the most interesting of such stories was that of a New Englander who made good in the wine world, Joseph Carr. Joe is living proof that education will lead to success. Needing to work his way through college, Joe took a job in a restaurant. In short order he was summarily informed that he was a lousy waiter. Instead of giving him the boot, they gave him a bow tie and a cork screw, et voilà, he was a wine steward. Graduating with a fine arts degree, he used his academic credentials (or not) to continue and become a sommelier and eventually a corporate president in the wine business. It has now led to his own label. I can attest that his cabernet sauvignon justified all of that education. Another story involves Ian White, who grew up among good food and wine in England, but went to Australia, also a land of good wine but without a lot of snow. So how did he end up here? Well, Ian went to “Melbourne to find a girl from Kenmore Square,” as he put it. At the tasting he represented United Liquors; he also teaches wine appreciation. All the folks representing the different vineyards and distributors displayed professionalism and a high degree of knowledge of the Continued on next page At the table with friends and family ... no one goes unloved. One inspired family... three distinctive locations Route 20 Sturbridge, Ma. 108 Grove Street Worcester, Ma. Main Street Rutland, Ma. 508-347-0100 508-753-4511 508-886-4600 16 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 Kallie Richards’ summer trip to Romania Continued from Page 5 and Hungarian. “The students are very smart. They all speak English, and learn so many different things.” Germans, Jews, Slovaks, and Gypsies also make up the social makeup of the city. The beautiful historic architecture also impressed the local teen. “There was a stone cathedral that had taken 17 years to build,” she recalled. She also describes a famous fortress built in the 1000s; while largely destroyed by numerous battles, it still stands and has been re-purposed into an art school. Kallie was less impressed with the local cuisine. She turned her nose up to the traditional Romanian meal that included stuffed cabbage. “I didn’t really like it except for what was inside, so I unrolled the cabbage and ate the meat and rice,” she says, laughing. However, not all of what Kallie experienced was so light-hearted. She was discouraged by Napoli Pizzeria, III the poverty she saw in the country. “Some translators lived with eight other people in these tiny houses that were so dark and gloomy,” she says. She reports that begging is not an uncommon occurrence, describing one experience at an open mall where members of her ministry were eating ice cream. The group was approached three times by children begging for money and food. Kallie and her friends encountered many gypsies and their children, remembering: “One day some of the gypsy kids came up to a girl and started pulling off her jewelry while they were talking with her.” For safety, the team traveled in groups of four or more, with at least one male over the age of 16. All of the ministry groups were were well supervised. Up to five people stayed in each room, which had adjoining sinks with running water. “We had cot mattresses on wooden bed New Sturbridgers! Yankee Spirits wine tasting Serving Only The Best! $5.00 Off Purchase Of $20.00 Or More Napoli I Springfield Napoli II Westfield Closed Mondays Tues.-Thurs. 11 am to 9 pm Fri-Sat 11 am to 10 pm Sunday 12 noon to 9 pm 57 MAIN STREET, ROUTE 131 FISKE HILL MALL, STURBRIDGE, MA 508-347-8225 • 508-347-9438 1 COUPON PER VISIT (ST) EXPIRES 3/2008 DAILY SPECIALS • 1 Lg. Cheese, 1 Lg. Pepperoni, 2 Liter Soda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $19.99 • 1 Sm. Cheese, 1 Sm. Pepperoni, 2 Liter Soda . . . . . . . . . . . . $10.99 • 2 Sm. Specialty Pizzas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14.99 • 1 NY Style Pizza, 1 Lg. Tenders Buffalo or Plain, 2 Liter Soda . . $19.99 • 2 NY Slices Cheese or Pepperoni, 20 oz. Drink. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.95 AND MORE 392 Main St. Sturbridge 508-347-5111 stands,” Kallie recalls. “It wasn’t like at home, but the rooms were comfortable.” Though at first, her cousin Kori was the only person she knew on the trip, Kallie came out of Romania with many new friendships that she hope will be long lasting. She’s already received emails from friends in Romania, and maintains a close friendship with a girl in California, who is “about as far away from Massachusetts as you can be,” Kallie jokes. But Kallie has become accustomed to long distances. It was a 22-hour trip to Oradea. Kallie’s trip began in Houston, TX at the Teen Mania headquarters. From there, she took a plane to Paris, and then a flight to Budapest, Hungary. She then boarded bus for the sixhour ride to Oradea. All of the effort was worth it for the incoming Tantasqua freshman. “I would love to do it again. I would recommend a trip like this to everyone. Max Michael Cohen Born July 24, 2007 at 13:31 p.m. 7 lbs. 8.5 oz. to proud parents Steven and Melanie Cohen of Sturbridge Nicole Rose Pelski Born April 27, 2007 to proud parents Sherri and Glenn Pelski of Sturbridge Nicole joins her maternal grandparents, Ralph and Nancy Brown of Ware and her late paternal grandparents, Walter and Natalie Pelski, also of Ware. Continued from previous page product. Typical of the spokespeople was Matt Dorment, at the Commonwealth Wines table. He also showcased the highly-respected Robert Kacher selections. Matt has attended the wine tasting for several years. He can even suggest just the right wine for a dish you might be planning. He once helped me with a pairing for goose. So, how did the public enjoy the day? Pat from Worcester acknowledged his satisfaction with the event. His wife did not seem to be having a bad time but was reticent about giving her name and put her foot down about Pat giving it. Their friends Helen and Jack Stockdale were not as shy. They like Yankee Spirits for the prices, but Helen was forthright that Bellini and fruit, a sparkling Italian blend was her favorite on the day. Were there any negative comments? No, but Lisa M. said they should have some gluten free snacks. It can’t have been that bad for her as she came all the way from Milton, just south of Boston. It seemed as we just got there, it was soon all over. The staff was busy filling orders, so I thought it better not to bother them. In the next week, Joe Astukewicz, wine manager, was kind enough to spend some time with me. According to Joe, between 800 to 1000 people attended. He based that estimate on the number of books handed out, many to couples. It speaks to how well-run the event was because the wait at the tables was not long and the people representing the wines had time to speak about the product with anyone who had a question. Yankee Spirits, the largest liquor retailer in New England, is a destination shop, so people come from all over. Even so, Joe estimates 10 to 20% are Sturbridgers. The efficient running of the event was part of an evolution. When the wine tastings were first held, the system for ordering was slow and confusing. Now, if you taste something you like, a bottle is marked with your book number at the table. Staff regularly picks up the bottles and brings them to the back where patrons proceed to when they are done. The bottles are separated according to book number and given to the customer. The line for picking up tasting choices was always moving. Continued on Page 22 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 17 stur bridge motors plaza Now Open Watch for our Grand Opening in October Our Customers Come First Stop in to experience our award-winning service Conveniently located at the junctions of Rt. 20, Rt. 84 and the Mass Pike $5.00 OFF 508-347-3182 ANY SERVICE EXPIRES 9-10-07 Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. STURBRIDGE TIMES Conveniently located at the junctions of Route 20, I-84 and the Mass. Pike. We are Open Saturdays 8am-4pm & Monday thru Friday 8am-6pm No Appointment Necessary “Now Celebrating Our 22nd Year in Business” STEVE’S COLLISION CENTER, INC. STURBRIDGE MOTORS, INC. 210 Charlton Road (Rt. 20) Sturbridge 210 Charlton Road, Route 20 Sturbridge, MA 01566 508-347-9116 STURBRIDGE MOTORS, INC. STEVE’S COLLISION CENTER Quality Used Cars & Trucks Collision Specialists All Work Guaranteed RS626 LOCAL CAR RENTALS BUDGET TRUCK RENTALS & MOVING SUPPLIES CALL 508-347-7900 ALL WHEELS DETAILING / RECONDITIONING FAMILY OWNED FAMILY OPERATED 381 Main Street, Oxford 508-987-3527 AUTO • MOTORCYCLE • TRUCK www.allwheelsdetailing.com COME SEE US AROUND THE BACK OF THE BUILDING 210 Charlton Rd. Rt. 20, Sturbridge 508-347-2002 210 Charlton Rd. (Rt. 20) Stur bridge 18 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 Tantasqua Education Foundation setting goals to plug in holes Continued from Page 1 Sturbridge student. She went on to work in advertising in New York, but could not resist the pull of home and eventually made it back. When John came knocking, she was ready and willing to pitch in. So, what is Ted and why was John out there soliciting locals on its behalf? It started at the home of Jim Glickman, former Tantasqua School Committee member and teacher of English at the Community College of Rhode Island. While Jim’s son has already graduated from Tantasqua, Jim remains interested and involved in the school. While on the school committee, he was part of a subcommittee that studied ways to get the moribund old foundation moving or start something else. Nothing took off. So Jim called John and they reached out to Colleen Bonja, a former Burgess School Committee member. The three got together at Jim’s and talked it over and decided to give it a try. After reaching out to Chris, they approached Katherine Alexander at Southbridge Savings Bank for the obvious reason that if Ted flew, it would need a bank. Katherine signed on. They also wanted someone with name recognition on board and asked the owner of the lovely, but now closed, Bin 479 owner, Greg Meserole. Greg has children in the school system and remains involved. Another member of the team, Melissa Earls, already knew the ins and outs of such organizations as she had been active in the Mendon-Upton Foundation before moving to this area. The first goal for the group was to build a board of directors. The target number was 20. On April 3, 2007 there was a rollout presentation at Bin 479. The vision was presented to various community leaders, and the original group presented Ted as “a community-sponsored, independent , non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial resources to support projects and programs that encourage stu- dents to develop their talents, become lifelong learners, and pursue excellence.” Basically, Ted would be supporting projects not funded by the school budget. COMMUNITY TO FUND If you visit their website, and you should, you will see the symbol called a helix, of four connected spheres representing community, teachers and students. The idea is that the community will fund Ted, and Ted will provide extra resources for teachers. Teachers will provide students expanded offerings, and the students will infuse the community with skills and enthusiasm. The “rollout” saw serious folks come forward representing local businesses as well as private citizens. The board was complete by the end of April and had its first official meeting in May and has subsequently met in June and July. They evidenced their enthusiasm by quickly forming subcommittees. Melissa Earls and Katherine Alexander head up fundraising. Jim Glickman leads communications. Finance is Jeff Tasse’s and Grants is under John Kittel. Not all are Sturbridge residents. The Foundation will be introduced officially to the community on November 4th at a brunch in Old Sturbridge Village. Jim Donahue, OSV’s new CEO will speak. The fundraising goal is $50,000, which will be allocated as half for the endowment and half to be awarded as grants. KIND OF GRANTS UNDER CONSIDERATION There are over 40 such foundations in Massachusetts, so there is no dearth of examples of how funds are raised and grants are distributed. In Sutton, the fund paid for the use of Boston University Medical School’s Mobile Lab. The lab is a 40-foot bus from the Boston University School of Medicine. Biology students used the lab as their classroom laboratory while it was there. They conducted experiments in DNA fingerprinting; protein quantization; and bacterial transformation. Other grant possibilities involve funding for field trips. On a field trip to Walden Pond, some kids could not afford the bus fare and had to stay behind. Fifteen percent of Tantasqua’s students qualify for free lunch. A small grant to make sure everyone went on such excursions would mean so much. Jim Glickman would like to see SAT tutoring funded. John Stebbins sees Ted as something that will help shape the community. Folks moving in with a foundation already in place will be more likely to become involved. As teachers are replaced and new ones are recruited, many will ask if the school has a foundation. In this era of pressure on all municipal budgets, school district education foundations appear to be the wave of the future. If you have kids in school, or like Jim, are civic minded, you could do worse than join this spirited group of folks this November 4th for brunch. You may be doing yourself a favor and come away inspired. You will certainly be helping the students at Tantasqua. As Jim put it, “There are some products that sell themselves.” To contact Ted about the brunch, to donate or just inquire, email [email protected] or phone 774-230-6525. This is an accident that happened in Sturbridge! PLATINUM 15-YEAR EXTENDED WARRANTY 2 Years Full This 15-year, heavy duty SAFETY COVER installed by Ideal Pools stopped a tragedy. Come in today and see a display of our Safety Cover Program. We offer Free Installation (Concrete Patio). The Best Costs Less! Don’t buy a safety cover until you’ve seen our program Available exclusively at IDEAL POOLS. Private label winter kits made and EPA registered for IDEAL POOLS. Pool line anti-freeze • Winterizers • Ice Plates • Water Bags Large selection of Winter Pool Covers in stock DO IT ONCE. DO IT RIGHT. Call for FALL INSTALLATION for Swimming Pools or Layway for 2008 Always available — FREE FACT SHEET on how to winterize your pool properly 351 E. Main St. Southbridge, MA 508-764-4275 or 1-800-585-7310 FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED The largest selection of pool chemicals in this area Richard Gervasi, CEO Jenna Gervasi, President Over 30 Years of Proven Service. Large Enough to Lead, Yet Small Enough to Care. THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 19 STURBRIDGE LEGAL ROBERT A. GEORGE, ESQ. STURBRIDGE ATTORNEY M ONTHLY L EGAL A DVICE FOR Taking title to land t took judges and lawyers several hundred years to figure out what it means when someone says, “I own my house.” Perhaps not surprisingly, centuries of legal hand-wringing yielded not a single simple answer, but all sorts of different meanings. One of the most important decisions you have to make before you buy a house is what you want it to mean to you. If you’re the only person on the deed, you will end up owning it in what’s called fee simple, which means you get to use the property while you’re alive and decide more or less what happens to it when you die. Complications arise when you own it with someone else. What does “I own my house“ mean when the person you own it with dies? The answer depends on what your lawyer writes on the deed’s title taking clause. If he writes you take title “as tenants in common,” you may still own in “fee simple”, but your individual shares pass to your heirs when you die. Under this type of ownership, you might buy with John and end up owning with John’s children. If your lawyer writes “joint tenants,” the entire property passes to the surviving tenant when one dies. You might buy with the intention of passing your half to your children. You might even write in capital letters in your will, “i give my half of the property to my children.” It won’t matter. If you took as a joint tenant, it passes automatically at your death to the other joint tenant. Finally, if you take title with your spouse, your lawyer will most likely have you take title as “tenants by the entirety.” This is similar to a joint tenancy in all ways except that under a joint tenancy one of the tenants can mortgage his half of the property without the other tenant. Under tenants by the entirety all tenants have to participate. A bank that lends money to a single tenant by the entirety is out of luck if that tenant dies first. The property passes to the surviving tenant and that mortgage is, as they say, not worth the paper it’s written on. I PHOTO COURTESY OF PAT MCGARRAH S TURBRIDGE R ESIDENTS Ross and Lana Hughes ride the Grand Trunk Trail up to the Westville Dam. Information meeting on Sturbridge Trails set In the early 1900s, the Grand Trunk Railroad of Canada wanted a line that went to Providence, RI. It was planned to go through Sturbridge and snake through Blackstone Valley to Rhode Island. The railroad was backed by financiers in England. As the project advanced, the president of the railroad traveled back to England for another round of funding. But the poor fellow booked his return passage on the Titanic, and that was the end of the program. Fast forward to 2002, when a group of local folks decided that bike trails or paths for recreation should be made on the old Grand Trunk line. The line went right through Fiskdale and on to where the Main Street of Old Sturbridge Village lies today, then to River Road and off to Westville Dam. Five years ago, the federal government began setting aside a portion of gas tax money for non-motorized transportation uses, like welcome centers on interstates, restoring transportation buildings and making bike paths. The government allocated $560,000 for this project with the requirement that state and local funding be added as 10% matches respectively. The grant is reduced each year that it is not used. A plan has been developed to link the Grand Trunk with other such circuits to form a trail network in excess of 40 miles. Communities outside of Sturbridge are involved in similar efforts. Sweat equity from local citizens will make a difference in this project, even in counting toward the local match requirement. Anyone interested in knowing more is urged to attend an informational meeting on Monday, Sept. 17 at 7:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Sturbridge. Volunteers working on the second annual National Public Lands Day on Sept. 29 will be asked to help in the cleanup. For more information contact: Pat McGarrah at [email protected] or Tom Chamberland at [email protected]. (no hyphens). Robert A. George AT T O R N E Y AT L A W LAW OFFICES OF ROBERT E. GEORGE, PC 508-347-7114 www.regeorge.net YOUR LOCAL LAW FIRM SINCE 1973. • Estate Planning • Real Estate • Corporate Busines • Bankruptcy • Divorce • Litigation Nuptials are announced Anthony and Joel Khattar were married on July, 7 2007 in a ceremony performed by town clerk, Lorraine Murawski. “We could not have asked for a better person to unite us together in marriage,” wrote the couple. Anthony and Joel celebrated their oneyear anniversary in Sturbridge in August. Please support the businesses that advertise in The Sturbridge Times Smooth Sexy L O O K F E E L No Cost, No Obligation Consultation _____________ Affordable Payment Plans _____________ Experienced and Certified _____________ Performing well over 200,000 treatments _____________ Safe, most effective and comfortable treatments available LASER HAIR REMOVAL Upper Lip . . . . . . . . . . . . .$48 Chin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$80 Bikini or Underarms . . .$99 LASER SKIN RENEWAL Ultrasonic Facial . . . . . .$78 Rosacea, Acne, Facial Veins, Brown Spots . . . . . . . . .$175 Advanced Skincare 71 Main Street Sturbridge, MA 508-347-3028 AROUND THE YARD 20 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 A monthly feature of The Sturbridge Times on the care of what’s growing in your yard. BY TOM CHAMBERLAND, ISA Eco-friendly, low maintenance lawn care STURBRIDGE TREE WARDEN “It is critical to educate the general public that the darkest green turf, which many people strive for, is not in fact the healthiest turf. A medium green turf with moderate growth rate will have the deepest root system with less thatching, reduced disease and insect problems and increased tolerance to environmental stresses such as heat drought, cold and wear.” — DR. JAMES BOARD, PROF. EMERITUS, TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY, Author, Turfgrass: Science and Culture any of us want to have at least one less mowing of our lawns during the summer while some of us share a growing concern for our environment. Having a lush green lawn has been a trend in recent years, though this has involved using more fertilizers and pesticides. Marketing campaigns have convinced many home gardeners that five-step fertilizer/pesticide programs are a necessary part of lawn maintenance. This month I offer some simple steps to a healthy low maintenance, and ecologically more diverse lawn, that reduces the amount of fertilizer and pesticide use. M Cancer concerns spur more organic lawn care A Harvard School of Public Health study last year found that people exposed to pesticides had a 70 percent higher incidence of Parkinson’s disease. A University of Iowa study in the mid-1990s showed that golf course superintendents died of cancer far more often than the national average. The Raliegh (N.C.) News & Observer reports that, as a result of cancer fears, more homeowners are turning to “natural yards”. What brought you to Sturbridge? Tell us. [email protected] • STARTING THIS FALL, have your lawn aerated. Aeration breaks down thatch and helps the lawn breathe. You can rent an aeration machine or have a landscaper do it for you. • OVERSEED – After core aeration, overseed your lawn by broadcasting a good quality seed mixture. Many of the seeds will fall into the tiny holes left behind by the aeration machine. • TOP-DRESS WITH COMPOST – If you have an established lawn where the soil seems too sandy and just doesn’t seem to hold water or the soil is more of a hardened clay, a top dressing of good quality compost will make a world of difference. Spread 2 yards of compost per 5 thousand square feet of lawn (approx. 30’ x 160’), raking it out as evenly as you can to a depth of about 1⁄2” . Some garden centers sell compost in bulk and some even have spreaders you can rent. • FERTILIZE – Most lawns will do fine with fertilizing just once per year, in early September. If a second application is needed, apply after the first cut in the spring. I recommend that you consider using “phosphorus free lawn fertilizer” to help keep unnecessary phosphorus out of our lakes and streams. Phosphorus is the key trigger to lake quality degradation according to our Conservation Commission. • KNOW YOUR SOIL pH – The pH of the soil (acidity level) for lawns should be close to 6.5. Most soils in our area are too acidic. If your lawn soil has a pH of 5.5 or less, weeds will grow wonderfully but grass will not. Further, you can spend a lot of money on weed and feed, etc. and grass still won’t grow well. Soil testing kits can be purchased at garden shops or you can send a sample of your soil to the UMASS Soil testing Lab (for order form got to: Chamber of Commerce Continued from Page 13 nity participates.” Two years from now, Ms. McNitt would like to see tourism growing, by at least 10 percent, each year. She intends to focus heavily on the needs of Chamber members and welcomes ideas. Ms. McNitt suggested the “Fun at Five” monthly networking events as a place for people to begin their experience with the Chamber. The next Fun at Five is Monday September 17, from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., at Rovezzi’s Restaurant (603 Main Street in Fiskdale). It is sponsored by the Hair Gallery Salon and Spa of Southbridge and costs $10 for Chamber members that preregister, $15 for members at the door and $20 for non-members. Contact the Chamber and Visitor Information Center for further details at: 1-888-STURBRIDGE or [email protected]. www.umass.edu/plsoils/soiltest (no hyphen). The UMass lab will tell you what the pH is and exactly how much lime you need to adjust to a pH to 6.5. The test will also inform you of fertilizer needs and your soil organic matter (compost). Lime can be added at any time of the year. • DE-THATCH IN THE SPRING – Removing thatch helps your lawn breath and allows for new shoots to fill in open spaces. Give your lawn a good raking with a flexible tooth rake in early spring, or hire a landscaper to power rake your lawn. Save the pile of dead clippings as a nice carbon source for your compost pile. • MOW HIGH – Set your mower at 2 1⁄2 to 3 inches. Mow high and weekly to keep your lawn healthy. Higher grass will shade out weed species. • SKIP THE WATER AND LET IT GO DORMANT. If you don’t water your lawn during the summer months it will naturally go dormant in the heat of the summer. As rains return it will green right back up in the fall. An added boost is that Japanese beetles will look somewhere else —to lush, over-fertilized and over-watered lawns to lay their eggs. • FIGHTING WEEDS – Follow these low maintenance lawn practices and your lawn will grow healthy and will naturally crowd out weeds. You can pull a few dandelions individually if they bother you without having to spray an herbicide over the entire lawn, or apply dry chemical as the 5-step programs often require, whether the weeds are present or not. By following these steps to a healthy lawn you will be protecting groundwater, reducing pesticide exposure and saving money. Sturbridge resident to give seminar on unresolved stress Dr. David Ballan, M.D., of Sturbridge, author of the book Unresolved Stress: Thirsting for Peace, will begin a five-week series on this topic at Belmont Street Baptist Church in Worcester Saturday, Sept. 8 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. There is no fee for the seminar. Interested parties should register in advance by calling 508-753-0312. ARTISAN THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 21 FRIEND Michael Terragna is back after the battle of his life By Richard Murphy Michael Terragna figures he has eighteen years to go until he retires. That should bring him to about 80 years of age. Michael is not complaining or making a political statement about the inadequacy of Social Security — he is glad of the opportunity to be doing what he loves. After a battle against cancer, he is where he wants to be: handcrafting sconces, lanterns, chandeliers, cupolas, weather vanes and other architectural and custom metalwork. An important part of the Sturbridge area craft scene for many years, he is returning with a much lower-profile presence than before, but that in itself is a triumph considering his ordeal. It was a long journey from beginner tin and coppersmith to entrepreneur to his comeback in his craft. Obviously, he was not born with tin shears in his hand. Michael Terragna Michael grew up on a farm and had a normal enough childhood and youth. His military service saw him in Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Dix, which was generally a conduit to Vietnam until it was realized by the army that lads trained in New Jersey where Hey listen! there are few jungle-like areas tended to become casualties at an unacceptable rate. So Michael was shifted into training to use the hi-tech (at the time) Red Eye shoulder fired missile. Being able to handle a shoulder-fired missile is a critical military job, but all good things must end and after separation from service Michael took up the sheet metal trade in 1971. He must have liked something about metal work because in 1974 he set up a workshop in his grandmother’s house on the farm. There, he taught himself tinsmithing. During the seventies, while still working in sheet metal, he displayed his tin work at shows. He was building a name for himself. In 1980, he was injured on the job. By the time he was healed in 1983 he was ready to open a shop in the back of the building that is now the Yankee Candle outlet in Sturbridge, where Seraph used to be located. He opened his doors on April Fools Day and began making and selling tin ware, copper lanterns and reproduction lighting. During the eighties Michael was collecting antique tools and books on his chosen field. As time went on, he picked up some employees, and by 1989 he moved major operations to nearby Charlton. From then until 1994 he kept growing and eventually had 12 workers. His business was both retail and wholesale. Eventually, Michael opened a museum of tin smithing where he had 8000 square feet of production space. It was all open to the public. It certainly would appear to be a shrewd marketing strategy to have people come in and watch him and his staff using eighteenth century machinery and equipment to manufacture product, Continued on next page Sturbridge’s Friendliest Restaurant and Pub Serving Lunch and Dinner Mon-Sun 11:30 - 10:00 pm Pub Hours ’til 1:00 am WELCOME ABOARD! NFL Sunday Ticket Coming in September on 42” HD TV’s!!! Upstairs — Watch up to 5 games Live Entertainment Friday & Saturday Night Everyone else does. 407 Main Street, Rte. 20 Sturbridge, MA 508-347-2838 22 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 Michael Terragna is back doing what he loves most Continued from previous page but it also sounds like what Michael would do without guile, just because it worked. There was even candle making as part of it. The museum had the largest collection of antique tools of the period and the library had over a thousand books. On the first anniversary of the opening of the museum in 1991 over 200 tinsmiths gathered. Many of the people Michael had looked up to during the learning process were now his peers and some would call him with questions. He counts that as the best kind of compliment. Not that he thinks of himself as a great tinsmith since, as he has been told, “you are not a great tinsmith until you pass on.” Michael’s process does not include using powder paint to make his work black. He has an antiquing process that makes his work so you can't tell it from that produced in the eighteenth century. It is a trade secret that he has only shared with one person and unfortunately not with the Sturbridge Times. Michael has been approached by corporations for what he knows and turned them down also. A lot of tinsmiths put their names on their work, not Michael. Even though he does not sign, people know what is his. In 1989, Early American Life magazine voted him one of the top 200 traditional craftsmen. This is an award many apply for and receive year after year. Michael only applied once and got it once. His view on the matter is “do it once, that's it. Move on in life.” If you go into his showroom, with all the inventory that he has made, it is easy to come to the conclusion that he does not favor wasting time. In 1999, tinware made by Michael became part of the White House Christmas tree. His work has also been obtained by the prestigious Abby Rockefeller Foundation. If you ask where Michael’s passion for the craft stems from, he will tell you that he is not going to work when he goes into his workshop. Because it was “too much of a business” and he wanted to be a hands-on craftsman, in 1994, Michael closed the Charlton operation and moved to Sturbridge to operate out of 5 Snell Street, behind the building he had started out in. He had his workshop in the cellar, retail on the ground floor and lived upstairs. He was creating for the local market, but he was still doing it for the whole country as well. Things were going well when around August or September 2002 he was diagnosed with cancer. In December of that year he had to undergo surgery, and had to close the business until April of 2003. During the break, he had no income. By December, the cancer had returned and he had to close again and endure radiation treatment that lasted until the end of March of the next year. Michael reflects that insurance is great until you get sick. He is fortunate to have had the Veterans Administration to fall back on. In April, 2004, he reopened, but soon decided to sell out and take a break and make Extra copies of this paper: Yankee Spirits, Joshua Hyde Library, Town Hall, Chamber of Commerce, Publick House Bakery Yankee Spirits wine tasting Continued from Page 16 I asked Joe how the vendors and wines are chosen and learned that they are hand picked, based on their value and what the French call typicitée. That is, the wines taste the way they should at the price point. Certainly, there was a great variety from the mainstream to super obscure. Yankee Spirits was very accommodating to the vendors within reason. After all, no one would have wanted 50 different New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs no matter how good. There were more whites because of the summer season, but I wish to weigh in with the fact that, in my view, there is nothing better than burgers cooked outside on the grill with a glass of beaujolais. Did Joe have a favorite wine? He was a bit hesitant to say, citing the oft-touted: “they are like your children and you do not feel it is right to favor one over the other”. Still, he shared that as wine goes, he tends to be a francophile. French wines are identified with regions that share the same type of soil and weather conditions. There are sixteen allowed varieties of grapes, but most wines will blend at most, four. With that in mind, Joe did name his favorite child. It was Domaine Saint-Benoit Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2005. Apparently, the excellent 2005 weather produced the hints of brambly fruit and spice flavors. It was, indeed, wonderful to taste. The wine tasting made for a very enjoyable day. I asked Joe if there were any events coming in the near future. He advised that a Sonoma County wine and cheese pairing seminar is planned. You can check the website (http://www.yankeespirits.com/) for details which should be forthcoming soon. While there, you can sign up for their newsletter and email alerts. Joe and Yankee Spirits had their choice for best wine of the day. My choice fell into the under $10 category: the Arancio Nero d’Avola Sicilian Red. Salut! an effort to get better. From April to September, he worked at selling off his inventory. Fortunately, he had the great friendship and support of his customers who would come and visit him with coffee and donuts. By September, he had cleared out the inventory and walked away. Moving to New Hampshire, Michael took a year and a half off to get himself healthy, “food, diet, the whole nine yards,” he shrugged. In 2006 he started making tinware again. He bought a little house and got back to work, did some shows and put up a webpage. While doing the shows in the northeastern U.S., he was lucky enough to run into Elaine Ramsey of Village Primitives on Route 20 in Sturbridge. Elaine and Michael sat down and made an arrangement. Michael set up his showroom in the back of Village Primitives and Elaine will handle the sales. The showroom will be the same as his old place at 5 Snell across the way. According to Michael, only 30% of the merchandise is there, but it looks pretty full already. Though he is still a dedicated artisan, he is taking things easier than before. He fished growing up on the farm, but had no time as an adult. Now he has bought a boat and he goes out on the Connecticut River with his dog when he can. Just making and not selling has made a big difference in his life. As he learned from his ordeal, money means nothing and he is genuinely happy. Michael Terragna has started his 18-year countdown to retirement. In truth, he is not really counting down. That's not his style. He will enjoy doing what he has always loved and when he turns 80, he will probably decide to give it 20 more years. Michael’s website can be viewed at: www.coppersmithtinsmith.com. Barefoot Cellars 3for 00 15 750 ml All Types $5.99 per bottle Fred’s Variety & Package Store Route 148, Sturbridge 347-9221 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 23 Carol Childress has deep roots with Opacum By Stephanie Richards Growing up in the middle of a 3,000 acre watershed in Southbridge, Carol Childress developed an appreciation for nature. “As a child it was great. There was nothing around and we had the woods, dirt, wildlife, fishing and hiking,” the Sturbridge resident said. “We weren’t allowed to watch TV, so we spent a lot of time outdoors.” Because of her passion for conservation, Childress has immersed herself as the volunteer president and founding member of Opacum Land Trust, Inc. The private, nonprofit organization is dedicated to protecting natural and cultural resources from Monson to the Brookfields to Sturbridge. “I’m not anti-development. I make a living off being a real estate appraiser,” Childress said. “But the laws in Massachusetts barely take care of resources we have and provide too much leeway. Once (the greenway, plants, animals, landscape) they are gone, we can’t get them back. I am a STURBRIDGE TIMES PHOTO BY STEPHANIE RICHARDS Carol Childress firm believer that we must have balance in everything we do. We needed to take steps to protect historic and prehistoric sites, vernal pools and endangered animals.” About eight years ago when development increased in the area, Childress experienced first hand a rare animal find in her own backyard—the marbled salamander. That was the beginning of her education on everything from vernal pools to environmen- tal law and the formation of Opacum Land Trust, Inc. The all-volunteer Opacum Board has six members including Childress; Vice President Jennifer Ohop, staff naturalist at Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary; Treasurer Jennifer Morrison, partner in Sterling Engineering; Allan Forrest Smith, archeologist and amateur herpetologist, George Miller, a marketing specialist and Leslie Duffy, staff horticulturalist at Norcross. The organization currently boasts about 300 members and sponsors programs on a monthly basis to provide information to the community and hosts fundraising events, such as the July 29 Eco-Art auction and annual plant sale, to help further conservation efforts. Childress, who also writes grants to help in the fundraising efforts, was quick to point out membership support. “Our membership is with their very generous resources. We raised $5,000 just from membership to help support two specific conservation efforts,” she said. Carol is quick to dispel the myth that Opacum competes with developers. “Opacum doesn’t compete with developers because the people we work with are conservation buyers,” Childress said. “I’ve learned that time and patience is the key to making things happen.” Case-in-point is developer Bob Moss who worked with Childress and the Opacum Land Trust, donating a 266-acre property that is a permanent conservation area in Sturbridge. Opacum Woods, located off Old Brook Circle, is open from dawn to dusk and includes four miles of hiking trails. Adjacent to the property is the 30-acre Herve and Mary Jane Gaumond Memorial Sanctuary, which was donated to Opacum Land Trust by the Gaumond Family in 2002. And Moss is in the process of building 70 houses on an additional 55 acres next to Opacum Woods. “Bob really believes in Continued on Page 26 The Sturbridge Times Crossword PHOTO BY LES GARDNER Southbridge Credit Union supports indigent veterans Thomas A. Chamberland, center, Commander of Champeau-Vilandre American Legion Post 109, Sturbridge, receives from Thomas J. Smalarz, right, President and CEO of the Southbridge Credit Union, and Paul D. Raffa, the Credit Union's Business Development Manager, a $1,000 check to support indigent veterans in the jurisdiction of the Sturbridge Veterans Agent. Mr. Chamberland also serves as Veterans Agent. The presentation marked the 60th award from the Credit Union's continuing Community Champions Fund, which, four times a year, aids community-based activities that improve the quality of local life. National credit union officials have described the Community Champions Fund as one of a kind in the United States. 24 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 Are amalgum fillings safe? A MONTHLY FEATURE OF THE STURBRIDGE TIMES Tooth Decay: Why You Need Fillings BY THE FACULTY OF THE HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL Q: I have some old silver fillings that my dentist says need to be replaced. I’ve heard that removing these types of fillings can release mercury. Is this dangerous? A: Dental amalgam is the silver-colored material used to fill (restore) teeth that have cavities (see illustration). Also called silver or mercury amalgam, this material consists of two materials in nearly equal parts: a powder containing silver, tin, copper, zinc and other metals; and liquid mercury. Even though amalgam has been used for more than 150 years and is the most common material used for fillings, it remains controversial. The source of the concern is fear that mercury may promote conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and autism. Amalgam fillings release a tiny amount of mercury vapor when they are put in or removed from teeth. Even chewing can release mercury vapor. But there is no evidence that removing amalgam fillings will benefit — or harm — your health. To date, no scientific studies have demonstrated any harm from dental amalgam. As a result, organizations such as the Food and Drug Administration, American Dental Association, National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have, at one time or another, stated that amalgam is safe for everyone except the few individuals who are allergic to the material. In addition, banning it would eliminate an important dental option for many people. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable, so they last longer than most filling materials. They are also relatively inexpensive. However, the debate isn’t over yet. After reviewing studies on amalgam from 1997 to 2006, the FDA drafted a report that reiterated that amalgam is safe for nearly all people. But in September 2006, the advisory panel that reviewed this report said there were too many uncertainties to make that claim. They say more information is needed on how it might affect certain groups, particularly pregnant women, children and people who are sensitive to mercury. Nearly all the data on amalgam safety come from studies of adults. In many cases, these people worked in places where mercury is present in sizable quantities, like dental offices. In fact, the first randomized trials in children appeared only in April 2006. These two studies found that children whose cavities were filled with amalgam had no health problems as a result. Each study involved more than 500 children, who randomly received either amalgam or composite fillings. One study tested the children over several years for memory, attention, physical coordination and speed of nerve conduction. The other study tested IQ. Researchers found no difference in test scores between the children in the two groups. They did find, however, that the children with the amalgam fillings had slightly higher levels of mercury in their urine. While these studies are reassuring, we still need more research. The FDA advisory panel said there wasn’t enough information to determine whether pregnant women and children should avoid amalgam fillings. The debate about amalgam has prompted some dental professionals to substitute more expensive restorations for still serviceable silver fillings for all patients. Composites, which are tooth-colored materials made from powdered glass and other compounds, are a common option. When composites were introduced, they were not very strong and were used primarily in the front teeth. Newer composites are stronger, although they still tend to wear out faster than metal-based materials and generally need to be replaced earlier than amalgam fillings. Porcelain, gold and other metals are also used as filling materials. If you got your fillings more than a decade ago, your dentist is correct. Most amalgam fillings wear out in 10 years or less and need to be replaced. Ask him or her which restoration material would be best for your particular situation and needs. Make your decision calmly, without undue worry about the mercury in amalgam. © 2007 the President and Fellows of Harvard College. Submit questions to [email protected]. A trip to Knoxville and the Junior Olympics for Tantasqua teen Continued from Page 7 Amber, her mother and her teammate Melissa made the 15hour drive over a couple days to compete in the four-day competition. “It was my first time going, and it was a really good experience," Amber says. She explains that the Junior Olympics is markedly different than the Olympic games most readers are familiar with. There are younger girls competing, at varying levels, and it's less competitive. “It's a lot of fun.” Fun is what has kept Amber in the sport of gymnastics for the last 121⁄2 years. Amber's mother signed her up for the sport when she was two years old. Amber has been happily flipping through the air ever since. “I just love tumbling,” Amber says. One of the things she enjoys most about the sport of gymnastics is nailing new skills on her favorite event, the floor. “It's cool being able to do really hard moves not many others can do." One of those moves is the back layout full, which involves a sort of running cartwheel, jumping back into something akin to a handstand while pushing off into the air, immediately followed by Continued on next page THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 25 Southern Worcester County League Continued from Page 4 Worcester. Note that Tantasqua's distance to the following D1 schools: 36 miles away from Springfield Central, 39 miles from Cathedral High School in Springfield, and 38 miles from Springfield Sci-Tech. In fact, there are a number of nearby D1 schools such as Minnechaug at 22 miles, Ludlow 31 miles, and Amherst 33 miles. Tantasqua could play 10 to 14 games against Pioneer Valley teams and the remainder of the 20 game schedule against SWCLWest teams. (Bartlett, Leicester, Prouty, Quaboag, Shepherd Hill, and Southbridge.) If the Tantasqua community prefers to stay within Central Mass, it could compete in either the Midland-Wachusett A Division or B Division. Schools in the Mid-Wach A are: Algonquin, Fitchburg, Leominster, Milford, North Middlesex, Shrewsbury and Wachusetts. The Mid-Wach B encompasses Gardner, GrotonDunstable, Marlborough, Nashoba Regional, Quabbin, and Westborough. Already, the Tantasqua swim team competes against Mid Wach teams because the other SWCL schools don't offer swimming as a sport. In addition, it's likely that the Tantasqua Lacrosse team, which gets underway this year as a JV program, will have to participate in another League other than the SWCL to find opponents. Five of 7 Mid-Wach A schools have Lacrosse teams, four of the 6 Mid-Wach B teams do and several Pioneer Valley League teams do as well. With the start of Lacrosse it's the right time to move to another venue as all the school's sports teams - baseball, basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field - could take part in the same league. For a number of reasons, including costs and travel, it would make the most sense for Tantasqua to join Mid-Wach A, in which all 7 league members are ranked D1. If that happened, because MIAA generally requires a 20game schedule to qualify for state tournament play, most Tantasqua sports teams could still play 6 nearby SWCL teams like Quaboag and David Prouty in its regular season schedule. Mid-Wach A offers the challenge Tantasqua needs to get better. Along with the Catholic schools in Worcester, the MidWach A teams of Algonquin and Milford are the athletic powerhouses that Tantasqua must overcome to be successful. On the other hand, the Mid-Wach B is less appealing because Groton-Dunstable is Division 2 and lies some 67 miles from Tantasqua. Gardner also is 60 miles away. The farthest schools in Mid-Wach A from Tantasqua are North Middlesex at 59 miles and Fitchburg at 54. Although switching to the Mid Wach A League will mean longer bus rides to 5 of its 7 schools, it won't be considerable. For starters, since Tantasqua plays SWCL East teams, team buses now have to travel east of Worcester to schools like Northbridge, Uxbridge and Millbury. Most of the sports teams start their games at 3:30 p.m. in the afternoon and playing schools like Quabbin means that athletic bus will arrive back at Tantasqua at 7:15 p.m. rather than 7 p.m. As for the basketball teams, they may have to adjust schedules and play the farthest-away teams on Friday nights, or else move the start time for the J.V games to 5 p.m. rather than 5:30 p.m. By the way, the Tantasqua boy's basketball played Milford - 45 minutes away - on Friday night, a game that was the turning point for the winning sea- son. And some teams like swimming, cross-country and indoor track already travel throughout Worcester County - and even the state-- for meets. Tantasqua will likely have to petition the MIAA to change leagues and it may be two or three years before such a switch happens. Still, leaving the SWCL lies in the long-term interest of the school and its student athletes. The community experienced considerable excitement last year when the underdog boys basketball team upended tough opponents in the state playoffs. We can only ensure continued athletic success if during the regular season Tantasqua faces the same D1 schools Tantasqua will be pitted against in the playoffs. On top of that, DI is generally regarded as the highest level of sports competition, and that's where an eminent school like Tantasqua surely belongs. Tantasqua Regional High School Committee will likely vote early this fall (probably October) on whether to leave the SWCL. It will also have to decide which league to take part in as well. If you want the sports program to continue to move in a positive direction, talk to your school committee members or come to the meeting. That vote could well determine how many state titles Tantasqua wins in the future. James Cooke is one of the Brookfield representatives on the Tantasqua Regional School Committee. He sponsored the motion to study leaving the SWCL last spring. Advertising Account Representative Enjoy your work. Sell advertising space for The Sturbridge Times. • Commission-based. • Make your own hours. Send resume and cover letter to: Account Representative The Sturbridge Times P.O. Box 418, Sturbridge, MA 01566 or email with attachments to: [email protected] The Sturbridge Times Sturbridge Times Crossword Solution AUGUST MOVIES at Village Cinema Village Cinema is located at the Visitor Center, Old Sturbridge Village. Showtimes are 7:00 p.m. and tickets are just $5.00 per person. Snacks and sodas September 7 and 8 THE LAKE HOUSE Amber Reilly Continued from previous page a graceful, outstretched back flip with a full twist at the end. Though Amber might make it look easy, these highly skilled moves come after a lot of work. Going to practice four times a week for three hours each, Amber has learned a lot about the meaning of dedication. “Sometimes I stay up really late,” she says. “During basketball season, I went from [basketball] cheerleading practice to gymnastics with 15 minutes in between.” But the sacrifice of time seems worth it to the Tantasqua sophomore, who will be on the football cheerleading squad for the first time at school this fall. Her grades don’t seem to suffer from time commitments to practice. “Amber does her homework in the car on the way out to her meets,” Amber's mom Marion explains. An honor roll student, Amber wants to go eventually into marine biology, though she wouldn't mind first, of course, making the Olympic team. (PG) September 14 and 15 BOBBY (R) September 21 and 22 WE ARE MARSHALL (PG) September 28 and 29 THE ASTRONAUT FARMER (PG) Old Sturbridge Village 26 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 S T U R B R I D G The Sturbridge Times E CLASSIFIED RATES CLASSIFIEDS Sturbridge Residents: SELL YOUR STUFF FOR FREE! 4 lines = No Charge! ITEMS FOR SALE Rowenta IS7800 Commercial Garment Steamer $89.00 Retail price: $149.00 Miscellaneous Sports Items Rowenta IS-7800 Industrial strength, commercially rated steamer removes wrinkles from hanging garments such as curtains, bed skirts, and suit jackets. Also ideal for difficult to iron fabrics such as sweaters with beading and delicate items.. 508-347-8252. Free-standing adjustable basketball hoop $25.00; Football table (Soccer) 2 feet by 4 feet $35.00. 508-347-1325 Baker’s Rack Bakers Rack, 67" high, 27" wide, 17.5" deep, wrought iron and wood, 4 small drawers and it holds 5 wine bottles $45.00.Call 508-347-1325 Holy Love Love God above all things; love your neighbor as yourself = Holy Love. www.holylove.org. B U S I Bottom Line Bookkeeping Independent Bookkeeper On/Off Site Services QBooks Installation and Training Free Consultation 978-223-8051 Kelly Tiedemann N Sturbridge Residents: SELL YOUR STUFF FOR FREE! E S S The Dental Office of Dr. Robert Audet and Dr. James Dores located at 22 Main Street Sturbridge, MA is pleased to announce new extended office hours: Mon. 8 to 8 Tues.&Wed. 8:30-8 Thurs.&Fri. 8-5 Jobs available for machine operators, assemblers, draw tower operators in the Southbridge and Sturbridge areas. Must have high school diploma or GED. Must be able to communicate in English. Call Lee at 508-765-8881. Please call: 508-347-7171 to schedule an appointment. BOSTON COMPUTER DOCTOR We make PC Housecalls MOBILE COMPUTER NERDS • PC Service / Repairs • Virus Removal • Slow PC or Internet • We Can Fix it! BACK-TO-SCHOOL PC TUNE-UPS [email protected] Sturbridge, Mass. 508-904-9490 Brand New 5-Light Sonoma Chandelier Bought for our last home, never installed. In box. Mission style, almond colored glass and green accents. 18” diameter chandelier w/intricate filigree border on the handcrafted glass shade and beautifully styled antique bronze 5-light fixture. • Antique black patina finish Tiffany style glass shade • Overall size 19” wide x 19” high • Uses five 60w medium base bulbs Paid $168. Will sell for $125. 508-347-8252. D I R E C AD REP For Sturbridge Times. Call on area businesses. We’re flexible. You’re dependable. Commission-based. Send letter and resume to: The Sturbridge Times, P.O. Box 418, Sturbridge, MA 01566. ___________________________ 50 Elm Street Southbridge, MA 01550 508-765-8881 Email: [email protected] Website: eandkstaffing.com 1 Headline + 3 Text Lines Each line = 24 characters ______________________ RESIDENTS (excess of 3 lines) AND BUSINESSES: $3 per line per month Headlines and Textlines = 24 Characters including spaces, phone #. $7.50 per photo PLACE YOUR AD: E-MAIL: [email protected] MASSAGE The Sturbridge Massage Center John Foley (formerly of Paul Conzo Day Spa) is offering therapeutic relaxation massage at the Sturbridge Host Hotel. By appointment only. Call: 508867-3958 or 774-200-0872. T O R Y Best New Restaurant in Town! US MAIL Sturbridge Times, P.O. Box 418 Sturbridge, MA 01566 (please give way to contact) All ads in print also appear on our website in the pdf copy of this newspaper. Deadline is the 22nd of each month at 4:00 p.m. All classified ads must be paid prior to publication. The Sturbridge Times accepts no liability for its failure, for any reason, to print an advertisement or for any errors appearing beyond the cost of the advertisement. The Sturbridge Times reserves the right to edit, rewrite or reject any ad. Sorry, no refunds on classified advertisements. Carol Childress 328 Main Street Sturbridge 508-347-6466 Now accepting new patients. Our office provides comprehensive dental care, including but not limited to: family general dentistry, endodontics (root canal therapy), prosthetics (partials, dentures and bridge work), cosmetic dentristy, implant reconstruction, and minor oral surgery. Let your comfort and smile be our concern! Specializing in Home & Business STURBRIDGE RESIDENTS EMPLOYMENT 5-Piece Bedroom Set Maple hues, exc.cond., 5 pieces—must see. $500.00 or b/o. 508-347-3399. FREE for Cooking from the heart Breakfast & Lunch Open 6 am-2 pm • 7 Days 508-347-9300 25 Brookfield Rd. (Rt. 148) Fiskdale YOUR AD HERE NEXT MONTH Complimentary hot deluxe breakfast. Free high-speed Internet access. Indoor heated pool and jacuzzi. King rooms with micro-fridge, cable TV with premium movie channel. Exercise room. Just 1/2 mile to Old Sturbridge Village. (formerly HooYa’s) $30 508-347-7077 ORDER YOUR DISPLAY ADVERTISING ONLINE AT 3 AM! www.sturbridgetimes.com REACH EVERY HOME AND BUSINESS IN STURBRIDGE Continued from Page 23 leaving something for the next person.” Childress said. Childress, representing Opacum Land Trust, and Moss were applauded for their efforts with the 2004 Environmental Award sponsored by the Massachusetts Audubon Society and Worcester Business Journal. “In the most positive way, Carol is relentless. She possesses a level of laser-like focus and commitment and without someone like her at the helm, we wouldn’t be growing,” said Morrison. Ohop concurs. “One phone call from Carol about eight years ago changed my life. I grew up here and a lot of things have changed over time. I wanted to be involved to preserve it,” Ohop said. “Carol is a great person and a very hard worker. She says she is going to do something and she does it.” Growth in the organization is evident with the recent success of the Eco-art silent auction at Old Sturbridge Village (OSV). More than 100 tickets were sold and 70 silent auction items donated toward the event, which raised about $5,400 for the organization. For more information on the web, go to www.opacumlt.org or call 508.347.9144 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007 27 GREATER STURBRIDGE REAL ESTATE Mortgage rates from selected lenders in Sturbridge SELLING? RENTING? Call Our Office 508-347-7077 or PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE www.sturbridgetimes.com Classified or Display Ads Sturbridge Sampler from Jo Chiodetti, REALTOR® “Jo Knows Sturbridge” 30 year fixed Assumes 20% down; $365,000 loan Hometown Bank (as of 8/27) APR: 6.625 RATE: 6.638 FEES IN APR: $500 LOCK: 60 ESTIMATED PAYMENT: $2,337.14 Sovereign Bank* (as of 8/22) APR: 6.523 RATE: 6.5 FEES IN APR: $860 LOCK: 60 ESTIMATED PAYMENT: $2,307 TD Banknorth* (as of 8/22) APR: 6.570 RATE: 6.545 FEES IN APR: $930 LOCK: 60 ESTIMATED PAYMENT: $2,318 * Source: bankrate.com Got a new Sturbridger? www.sturbridgetimes.com Go to our website, click on GOT NEWS? and tell Sturbridge about it. Exceptional home + Beach rights Water views from every room 400++ ft. Walker Pond Frontage STURBRIDGE: AMAZING 3400 sf OUTSTANDING luxury custom appointments. Four large bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths. 9'ceilings, beautiful millwork, mahogany decks, absolute DREAM KITCHEN granite counters with Thermador gas cooktop & grill and warming lights, Thermador convection double wall ovens, Sub-Zero fridge, refrigerated drawers integrated into the 5x5' island counter, Fireplaced familyroom, Fireplaced livingroom, Fireplaced year-round sunporch, vaulted master bedroom with spa bathroom, Hydro Air heating, Central Air, Finished basement, Private Deeded Big Alum beach rights. $582,029. Jo Chiodetti 508.868.6826 STURBRIDGE: Incredible Classic, original Wells family built waterfront home. Over 400++ feet of rare true Walker Pond frontage! Favored western exposure offers glorious sunsets. Very private pancake-flat lot. Dock.Water views from every room. Pine floors throughout. Heated sunroom offers breathtaking panoramic views of lake and Wells State Park. Stately fireplaced living room. Fully applianced eat-in kitchen. Oversized two car/two story garage offers potential with additional recreation/hobby space. Gem! $474,900. Jo Chiodetti 508.868.6826 Charming. Great Neighborhood. REDUCED! STURBRIDGE: JUST Charming Dutch Colonial, located in sought after centrally located cul-de-sac neighborhood. Front-to-back LR, formal DR, kitchen slider overlooks entertainment sized twotiered deck and giant level backyard. Hardwoods, oil, attached two-car garage. SF does not include freshly redone FP familyroom and office in lower level! Flat driveway. Town water and sewer. Call to set up a showing! $288,800. Jo Chiodetti 508.868.6826 Jo Chiodetti, REALTOR® 508.868.6826 RE/MAX PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATES The Sturbridge Times 49 Main Street Sturbridge, MA 01566 508.347.9595 Hear ye! Sturbridge Realtors! Bring your listings into Sturbridge’s Hometown Paper! 508-347-7077 28 THE STURBRIDGE TIMES | SEPTEMBER 2007