Sheffield Times

20 Pages·2002·1.7 MB·English

TIMES
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Community News for Sheffield & Ashley Falls, MA, SECOND GENERATION Vol. I, Issue^- JwwraTy/Fobruai>gOOg
Sheffield's many ways.
^^ working Of the 196 respondents to the survey
f landscape, guiding the "1987 Open Space Plan for
seen hereset Sheffield," 100 percent cited the most
againstMt. important advantage to living in the
Everett, is a town as the "rural and natural character-
| valuable istics." Preservation of farmland and
resource. forest lands were also listed as key to the
Alongquiet town's desirability The survey noted as
country roads
well that other attributes of the rural
or busy main
atmosphere included wood corridors
streets,
between fields for wildlife habitat, the
Sheffield's
vast acreage which remains open for
farmsprovide
groundwater recharge (as opposed to
\freshfoodand
surfaces ofroads and roofs), and the
I the rural
aesthetic pleasures oflooking across
I characterthat
I supports our well-tended fields to the mountains.
I tourist At a panel discussion on farming in
Sheffield hosted by the Sheffield Land
f industry.
Trust this past February, Jonathan Healy,
SHEFFIELD: A LANDSCAPE OF FARMS
then Commissioner of the Massachu-
setts Dept. of Food & Agriculture, spoke
Imagine Sheffield without farmland, too steep . Today these valley soils still to the subject of the disappearance of
without open views of cornfields and enable farmers to continue to produce family farms, the attempts through state
hayfields, barns and cows. Take a drive food for humans and livestock on many programs to hold onto land for produc-
or a walk down Boardman or Hewins of the same fields. tion of food and fiber, and the difficulties
Street or travel along the Undermountain Continued agricultural success is due of maneuvering through Congress a
Road or Route 7 and think back to 1950. in part to the chemistry of the limestone new farm bill that would assist New
In those days 37 percent of the land bedrock of Sheffield. Limestone, easily England farmers as well as those from
in Sheffield was intensively cultivated or dissolved, provides a relatively neutral the Midwest and West.
used as pasture for sheep, goats, horses, balance to the acidic rainfall and to the Commissioner Healy described some
and dairy and beef cattle. Farms lined stream waters running down over the of the programs in Massachusetts that
much of Root Lane, cattle grazed beside more acidic minerals of the hills on have assisted farmers' efforts to remain
Willard Brook and all along Barnum either side of the valley. The favorable
in farming, including the Agricultural
Street and in fields by Kelsey Road, soils are found in many hundreds of Preservation Restriction program. Since
Sheffield-Egremont Road, and Hewins level acres where "the soil stays put." its passage in 1977, the APR program
and Boardman Streets. Twenty-five Small wonder, then, that Sheffield
individual dairy farms milked more than currently can boast that more of its Continuedonpage 3
2,500 cattle, and the town was dotted 30,000 acres are devoted to food produc-
with smaller farmsteads with pens of tion than any other Berkshire County In This Issue
ducks, pigs, chickens, as well as several town, approximately 4,200 acres for field Community News
orchards and extensive gardens. Today, corn and pasture (and hundreds more for Gypsy at Mt. Everett, bringing back
about 15 percent of Sheffield's land is a sod operation, floriculture, and elms, oral histories,conimunity dinners
farmed. Only four dairy farms continue to vegetables) out of the 22,000 farm acres Pages-* - 7
produce milk from individual herds much across the County. Village Green
larger than those of 25 or 50 years ago, Selectmen's meetings highlights,
combined they total almost 2,200 cattle. Helping farmers stay farmers planning board, assessors, police, more
Farms have been central to Sheffield, I^ess than one quarter percent of the Pages8-10
&
its cultural history and its economy even town's population is actively involved in Organizations Businesses
before the town was incorporated in farming these acres. The pressures on Historical Society. Brush Hill ill, more
1734. The advantages of the rich alluvial the land and on the men and women who Pages 11 - IS
soils along the Housatonic River Valley serve as its stewards mount steadily and Listings & Calendars
first attracted settlers from eastern towns have been the subject of many surveys, March and April events, real estate
where the gravel and rock grew as fast as discussions and amelioration attempts. transfers, more I4&
Pages 15
potatoes or where land prices had grown Their steadfastness benefits the town in
'
from the
EDITORS
*
Supporting Sheffield's Farmers Milkfrom local
Farmers in Sheffield have continued farms was bottled
to work the land for more'than 250 at Jf'illowbrook
years, and our town would be a very Dairy, on the
different place without its farms. As the south side of
story on page one points out, farms not MillerAvenue,
only provide fresh food but are the justpast the
reason for the pastoral land scape and railroad tracks,
open land that makes Sheffield increas- the current site
ingly unique in New England. Farmers ofHewitts
carpentry shop
and the agricultural heritage are an
Part of
important part of life here.
Sheffield's
Sheffield's rolling fields and moun-
agricultural
tain vistas remind many of northern
heritage.
California, Wisconsin, and Italy. People
visit and settle here because of these ishes the soil., need to be understood.
views and our way of life. Our tourist • Write and call your Massachusetts CONGRATULATIONS
economy relies on both, and they are State legislators (Andrea Nuciforo and BOB & DORRIS
maintained by Sheffield's farms. Chris Hodgkins) and ask that they VAN DEUSEN!
What can you do to support local support the business of farming, and
farmers? bonds and legislation that provide more
Van Deusens Wed 50 Years
• Buy local. As the cover story points agricultural preservation and farm
out, food dollars spent at local infrastructure funding. Robert and Dorris Van Deusen
farmstands, at the Sheffield Farmers • Get involved in the development of were honored for their 50th
Market, and at restaurants that use Sheffield's master plan. Watch the anniversary at the American
locally grown food help your neighbors Sheffield Times and other local press Legion Hall in Sheffield where their
and your town. [Those dollars also for more on how to do this. As Jonathan sons and daughters-in-law gave a
remain in the community to be spent at Healy then Commissioner of the party for 15 friends and family
other local businesses, increasing their Massachusetts Department of Food & members.
value to the local economy] Agriculture, noted in the land trust The Van Deusens were married
• Realize that while farming main- lecture, studies show that keeping land January 19, 1952 in Hernando,
tains the character and rural beauty of in agriculture can be sound fiscal policy Mississippi.
A
our community, not every aspect about for local governments. Farms, as native of Millington, Tenn.,
it is pretty and neat. And those aspects, opposed to some other uses, typically Dorris is a retiree from Becton
just like the need to spread manure to pay more in taxes to towns than towns Dickinson in Cannan, CT, and is a
dispose of wastes in a way that replen- have to spend on them in services. member of the American Legion
> Auxiliary Post #340.
Photos in this issue ©2002 by Neal Thanks to all those who have donated Originally from New
Chamberlainp. 5, JulieMcCarthyp. 4; since the last issue to help keep the Marlborough, MA, Bob is a veteran
Kathy Orlandop 1, Tom Zetterstromp Sheffield Timesgoing! To anyone we of the Korean War, four years in
6; andSheffieldHistoricalSocietyp 2. missed, we'll get you into the next issue. the U.S. Navy, and is a member of
the American Legion Post #340.
Betty & Fred Bangs He has also been a member ofthe
Bill & Penny Browne Southern Berkshire Regional
Sheffield
TIMES Betty Chapin School District School Committee
Natalie Funk for over 10 years.
Michael J. Giulian The Van Deusens have owned
Community Newsletter for Madi Lanier and operated Van Deusen Realty
Sheffield & Ashley Falls, MA. Gertrude LeGeyt for the past 30 years. They have 5
Issue Editors: Kathy Orlando & Andrea Scott; Papachristou Family grandchildren: Brenda, Danielle,
Layout: Kathy Orlando; Advertising Sales: Rene Betty & Wes Petersen Barry Jr., Arielle, and Meghan.
Wood; Distribution: Ed Hotaling; Staff: Sandy & David & Judith Steindler The ceremony of the renewal of
DaleAlden, ArtKaufman,Sally Kelly Peter& Ellen Jan and Denny Tresp their marriage vows was conducted
Rowntree,Jenny Russell, Barbara West,June Wolfe.
Susan & Stuart Twemlow by the Rev. Steve Felker, the former
The ShPeufbflieilsdheAdssboyc:iation Merle and Karen Varney pastor of the United Church of
P.O. Box 1339, Sheffield, MA 01257 Diana & Henry Vollmer New Marlborough, of which the
[email protected] Waingrow Van Deusens are members.
Jeff
Sheffield's farmscomein allsizes andshapes
Continuedfrompage I farmers because of the limited number BotehleorwShaerfefiseoldmleanodfitshleemasIendafdodritciroonp,sa&lpotasotfure
has facilitated protection of over 500 of things a dairy farmer can control. Dairy:
farms through the purchase of the Prices are set by the government, based Larkin-Batacchi Farm, Lime Kiln Rd
development rights of each farm. By on the price to produce milk in the Pine Island Farm, Hewins St
Toby Hill Farm, LeGeyt Rd
purchasing this land value, the Common- Midwest, which can be half what it costs Twin Rivers Farm, Rannapo Rd
wealth allows the farmer to realize the to produce it in New England. Produce
part of the land's equity that has been If that desire to farm, to know Barnum Hill Farm, Barnum St
Boardman Farm Stand, HewinsSt
"locked up." In exchange, the land owner seasons, to understand cycles in the Bob Kelly's Farm, Hewins St
agrees to prohibit non-farm development ground and of the market, to produce Corn Crib, Rte 7
Deep Roots Garden, Salisbury Rd
and uses on the land. something good for people to eat sounds
Egerton Farm Stand, Rte 7
Sheffield's land trust and other like a romantic dream, the realities of Equinox Farm, BowWow Rd
groups, working with these and other farming require learning to package and Howden Farm, Rannapo Rd
programs of state and non-profit market produce and services to suit and Moon in the Pond Farm, Barnum St
Wolfe Ridge Farm, PolikoffRd
agencies, have assisted in reducing the inform consumers. Trees, Orchards, Flowers:
loss to other uses on over ,200 acres of BowWowFarm, Lime Kiln Rd
Sheffield's farmland and is 1working on Bringing food dollars home CCahralpsionn''ssCBherrikssthimraesNTurreseeFrya,rmR,teHe7wAins St
1,000 additional acres. Apart from dairy farming, with its Ladybugs Nursery, Rte7
own difficult circumstances, staying on The Perennial Ranch, Clayton & Polikoff Rds
— Pine Island Tree Farm, Rte7
Outlook for Sheffield agriculture the farm or as with Bob and Sue Saunders Christmas Tree Farm, Home Rd
The prospects for small, local farms Kelly's new vegetable farm and green- Sheffield Sod Farm, Hewins St
continues to be daunting but not impos- houses on Hewins Street, establishing a Woodside Orchards, County Rd
—
sible, according to panel members. The new farm requires knowledge of the
panel included vegetable growers, dairy market and the ability to bring consum- tor and eggs from a carton. Through
farmers, the former president of Berk- ers onto the farm in one way or another. field trips to work cider presses, shearing
shire Grown (an organization dedicated Ted Dobson, who moved his mixed sheep, hunting for eggs and feeling the
to linking local farmers with local greens farm from Housatonic to Bow sweet steam of a sugar house, the
Wow
markets) and the coordinator of the Rd., has taught local restaurants current generation of students and their
Sheffield Farmers' Market. The tradi- and supermarkets the advantages of teachers and parents may ask questions:
tion of agriculture, the good soils, the purchasing his fresh and succulent salad Why does so much of our food come
favorable climate, the proximity to mixes. Bruce Howden has opened the from an average of 1,500 miles away?
markets, and the extraordinary pressures home farm on Rannapo Rd. as a bed and How many people are involved in bringing
Who
on farmland in counties to the east, all breakfast where visitors experience first- our food to our tables? is making
provide good reasons to produce food hand the variety of cultivated fruits and money from the separate steps to get the
and fiber in Sheffield. Besides, as June joy of the pumpkins. Jim Kelly on food from harvest to supermarket?
Wolfe of the Farmers' Market put it, County Rd. invites school groups to Berkshire County has the capacity to
"We want to raise our own food and press cider from his apples at his orchard produce more of the food and fiber
know what we are eating." while at the Corn Crib the Zieglers have consumed in the county. But millions of
Fellow panelists gave equally con- engaged literally thousands of customers farm dollars are sent to other states or
vincing arguments. Bruce Howden, who in picking corn wet with dew from their overseas. Why? This nation is blessed
in 1997 took over the family farm and continuously filled bins in the summer. with an abundance of food, a "cheap"
cultivation of its famous Howden Buying local can be as simple as food supply through an efficient trans-
pumpkin, explained that this variety was picking up a halfpeck of apples from the portation system, and trade policies that
just too important a hybrid to abandon. Zieglers or more abstract, such as buying allow international trade with countries
Pine Island Farm, run by Louis Aragi farm shares in a local community that lack the environmental regulations
junior and senior, represents a continued supported agriculture (CSA) farm like that bar the use of pesticides long
opportunity to keep land in agriculture Rick Banducci's Deep Roots Garden CSA banned for use on food in this country.
by producing an excellent product on Salisbury Road or like Dominic Transportation over long distances adds
through constant effort to adapt to the Palumbo's Moon in the Pond Organic to the ultimate cost but does not put
dairy market. Woodside Orchard's Jim Farm on Barnum Street. It can be as more money in the pocket of the grower.
Kelly affirmed his goal of offering to the revelatory as asking Jim Larkin, Louis Every time food is processed or shipped
local market a product that mass produc- Aragi, Bob Kilmer or Dick LeGeyt about for more than a day, nutritional values
tion and foreign imports cannot match. the Dairy Pricing Index or as festive as decline. Food that seems to be cheap has
Bob and Sue Kelly moved here from stopping by the Sheffield Farmers' other costs, to you and to everything
eastern Massachusetts where their 250- Market Fridays in summer and fall. around you.
acre farm had been literally surrounded Spreading the word has become as Travel the roads of Sheffield this
by suburban sprawl which "stole the important to family farms as a good spring and summer. Think back to 1950.
environment." Summing up a reason to rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Many Think ahead a decade or so. Where will
keep farming despite the odds, dairy farms have opened their gates to visitors, the food be grown? Where will the cow S
farmer Jim Larkin said, "You have to particularly to student visitors many of be? What will happen to our farmland,
have a burning desire to farm." whom still think bread comes from a our farmers and our community?
That's especially true of dairy plastic package, milk from the refrigera- - Jenny Russell
3
communWity
I N
E
S
STORIES & MEMORIES
TO BE RECORDED
Mount Everett To Present "Gypsy" March 8, 9 & 10
Sheffield's oral history project is off
On Friday, March 8, and Saturday, Sondheim) to be one of the best Broad- to a good start, but is still looking
March 9, at 7pm and on Sunday, way scores ever written. Songs for volunteers to be trained as
March 10, at 2pm, Mt. include "Let MeEntertain interviewers, be interviewed, help
Everett Regional High You," "If Momma Was with taping of interviews or with
School will present Married" and transcribing the tapes.
the Tony Award "Everything's Coming The goal is to document Sheffield's
winning Broadway Up
Roses." history by recording the recollections
musical, "Gypsy", a Over 50 Mount of people who lived that history, or
story that has de- Everett students are remeber stories ofthose who did.
lighted family audi- involved in the "Stories are history," said Francis
ences for over 40 production's cast, Jones-Sneed, oral history expert from
years. orchestra and technical the Massachusetts College of Liberal
A winner of crews. Performances will Arts, who has been hired to train
numerous Tony be in the Thomas A. volunteers and structure the program.
Awards for its musical Consolati Performing The project is being organized by
score, "Gypsy" is Arts Center on Berkshire geographical areas and is beginning
loosely based on the School Road. The with the most distant past. Coordina-
memoirs of Gypsy community is invited to tor Natalie Funk, with students at Mt.
Rose Lee, the famous attend. Tickets are $7 for Everett doing the taping, has already
burlesque dancer, her adults and $5 for seniors completed the first interview in the
life with her sister, and students and may be Brush Hill area.
Baby June, and their purchased at the door. For more information, call Natalie
domineering stage mother, Mama The community is welcome. For more Funk at 229-2623 (Council on Aging),
Rose. Set in the 1920's, many consider information call [phone]. Rae Eastman at 229-7022 (Senior
Gypsy's musical score (by Jule Styne, Above: "Gypsy" andcastmatesfromMt. Everett's Center), Kathy Orlando at 229-8789
with lyrics by a young Stephen production of theawardwinningmusical (Historical Commission), orJoanne
Hurlbut at 229-2694 (Historical Society).
A CITY SLICKER'S PERCEPTION OF LIFE IN THE COUNTRY
Having lived in New Jersey most of variety of diverse restaurants are the proprietor. I didn't have to pay
my life, I was unsure of what to scattered about the area. One did not until after I filled my tank.
expect when we moved to Sheffield have to avoid rush hour traffic as in New To sum things up, I've survived my
early this summer. Jersey, since no one ever rushed. Strang- first winter in Sheffield, although a
Now that I'm a native of six ers actually stopped to wave hello as we mild one to date. I've learned to
months, I look back with humor at strolled along country roads and let us navigate dark country roads at night
some of my early perceptions and have the right of way at intersections. without a cell phone for security. I
naivete. No one ever blew their horn when we know that doctor's visits may be an
First, there were the unusual stopped to check for street signs, often hours drive away, along with the
sounds I heard at 6am. I awoke not nonexistent anyway. Amazingly, convenience of a local Staples or
to thejangle of my alarm clock, but pedestrians have the right of way Cosco.
to the sounds of cock-a-doodle-doo crossing streets in town, something no My friends in New Jersey ask if I
emanating from the two roosters sane pedestrian would ever assume in miss living there. I reply that I
next door. Instead of the drone of New Jersey, unless they were ready to certainly miss them. However, as I
cars driving past, I heard the peeping risk life or limb. gaze at the beauty of the Berkshire
of tiny toads in the quarry near our I was also amazed at the trust ac- hills from my bedroom window and
home and the mooing of cows corded to newcomers like us. In New reflect upon the warmth and energy
awaiting their breakfast from the Jersey I was accustomed to showing my of the people and the many activities
farm down the road. I.D. every time I cashed a check at our open to those who seek involvement
Another surprise involved how far local bank. In Sheffield the tellers called in the community, I close the chapter
one had to travel to one's destination. me by my first name and even helped me on life in New Jersey and open a new
The local movie was 12 miles away, use the A.T.M. machine when my card page to my future as a Berkshire
along with the supermarket and the didn't work. resident.
drugstore. Even the mailbox was It took me a while to get the hang of I hope I may rise to the challenge.
1,500 feet down the road. pumping my own gas at the gas station -Joyce Freundlich
Instead of fast food restaurants, a and again was surprised at the trust of
4
DANCE
COMMUNITY DINNERS MOVE Who knows? Though it's not guaran-
teed you may see that special twinkle in
TO DEWEY HALL
B:3D SAT. NIGHT someone's eye, as Ed and Caitlin
If you missed the first two community Hotaling did, and end up with wedding
dinners, you are in luck. They were CONTRA 1 SQUARE bells in your future.
such a success that this monthly Contra dancing involves two lines
potluck event is continuing and of dancers facing each other. Partners
moving to a more central location. MOUNTAIN I i\ND dance with each other and with other
ALL DANi
The March 16 and April 20 dinners i rfl people in the lines using many of the
will be at Dewey Hall in the center of moves of square dancing. Within this
town rather than at the home of co- The sign is back! Doyou renumber the last basic pattern, there are many opportu-
founders Beth Harlan and Robert time it was seen infront of theSheffield nities for individual variations. Contra
Kauffman. Grange on Rte. 7? dancing is a New England tradition
Dewey Hall will provide space for dating back to the early settlers.
more people, and also a stage that will Saturday Night Contra Dancing Some dancers drive from over an
allow for impromptu entertainment, if For the past 25 years on the fourth hour away. Admission is $6 for adults
anyone wants to bring an instrument Saturday of each month, the Mountain and $3 for kids. Since all dances are
or share a short piece of poetry or Laurel Band has played to an enthusi- taught, people coming for the first time
prose. astic crowd of all ages swinging, are bound to have fun.
The dinner starts at 7pm. Is an promenading and do-si-do-ing on one People who come thinking they will
informal affair, so don't worry if you of the best dance floors in Berkshire just listen, find that the rousing
can't make it until later You may miss County. At 8:30pm the first dances of renditions of fiddle tunes by Donny
some of the more popular dishes, but the night introduce newcomers to the MacLean (fiddle) and Bonner
you won't miss the people. Bring steps. Come early and give it a try. McAllester (hammered dulcimer) and
whatever dish you are most comfort- Dance regular Neal Chamberlain is the rhythm of Joe Baker's guitar soon
able bringing. fond of saying that contra dancing "is a have their feet tapping right out onto
For more information contact Beth statement of the inherent trust in the dance floor. Each month's caller is
Harlan or Robert Kauffman at 229- people. Where else can you go, open an experienced teacher and friendly
0029 or 229-0240; or e-mail: your arms to complete strangers and guide to the joys of this form of
[email protected]. twirl with them around the room?" community dancing.
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[phone]/229-3043
£S£S.MASS. LICENSED REPAIR SHOP /RS1006• BONDED IN MASS. ^
of Gt. Barrington On Rl 7 - 1939 No. Main St. Sheffield
FAX [phone]
^
community
^X
E S
YV
Bringing Elms Back to Sheffield
During the past 10 years there has been Sheffield, many along Rt. 7. One,
interest in replacing the majestic elm at the corner of Berkshire
trees that were once such a significant School Rd. and Rt. 7 is now
part of our community. The elm is the beginning to form the classic
official state tree, and it is on Sheffield's elm canopy.
seal with the motto "He who plants a Meanwhile, the rest of the
tree plants hope." seedlings have continued to
Sheffield's Big Elm, for years the grow and in March 2001, Ann
largest in Massachusetts, stood at the Barrett re-invigorated the
corner of Rt. 7 and Silver St. where it project by convening a group of
served as a popular meeting place for interested residents. "The
residents until the 1920s when it died Sheffield ReELM" group has
of old age. It was thought to be over identified 35 of the remaining
400 years old. trees, now of substantial size, as
In 1846, 40 Sheffield residents good candidates for transplanting and Adoptedelm on Rannapo RoadinAshleyFalls. There
™ &
planted 1,000 elms along roads in the have begun to research transplanting arestlU 18othersin ed°f treatement adoption.
center of town, creating a shady needs, volunteer resources and possible nonprofit grass roots organization is
canopy over Main St. When Dutch Elm private transplant locations along dedicated to protecting, preserving and
Disease was accidentally introduced public roadways. ReELM is poised to restoring the American elm in our
from Europe in the 1930s, it ravaged establish itself as a fund of the Berk- communities.
the stately trees that adorned New shire Taconic Community Foundation, Elm Watch encourages elm steward-
England towns. The destructive in order to receive tax-deductible ship and promotes awareness of
fungus, transmitted by the elm bark contributions toward the project. community forests through advocacy,
beetle, destroyed 95 to 98 percent of Since the planting of the seedlings in education and direct action.
American elms and because only elms, 1993, studies have shown that new The organization has three goals: 1.
were planted on Sheffield's Main St., varieties are more resistant than the to preserve elms through the Adopt-
the disease spread quickly and wiped Liberty to Dutch Elm Disease, includ- an-Elm program in which individuals,
out the corridor of trees gracing Rt 7. ing the Valley Forge, Princeton and organizations or towns adopt an elm
Today, only about 30 mature elms New Harmony cultivars. Because Valley and financially support fungicide
survive in Sheffield. Forge and Princeton elms are 20 times injections every three years; 2. to
more resiestant than the Liberty elms, restore elms by encouraging the
Homegrown replanting effort further investment in this variety is planting of disease-resistant cultivars;
In 1993 Sheffield residents Joan questioned. Tom Ingersoll, Sheffield and 3. to maintain elm sanitation by
Griswold and Don Jurney piloted a certified arborist and a partner in identifying and destroying diseased
project to restore the elms of Sheffield. Webster-Ingersoll Landscaping and trees or tree limbs (by chipping,
They purchased 500 Liberty elm Tree Care, agrees that transplanting burning or burying), thus reducing the
seedlings from the Elm Research the Liberty elms is risky. He would like risk of elm disease to nearby trees.
Institute, at that time the most disease- to see a variety of species planted in the In addition, the organization identi-
resistant cultivar available. The Select- community effort to beautify Sheffield. fies and documents the location and
men enthusiastically supported the He recommends including maples, oaks, health status of existing elms in
project, according to an account in the horse chestnuts and sycamores (all Massachusetts, Connecticut and New
Berkshire Eagle. Local residents John tolerant of urban conditions) in order York. Their brochure and map of the
James and Kathy Ness, Susan and Tom to avoid another monoculture. This is "Majestic Elm Trail" in the Berkshire-
Young, Kerry and Ann Douglas, Judy consistent with a national effort to Taconic Region identifies many
Schnurr, Ann and David Barrett and increase biodiversity in urban forests. surviving elms. Volunteers monitor
the Berkshire School partnered with ReELM is considering this new infor- these trees, looking for signs of
Joan and Don in planting the trees on mation in deciding how best to proceed disease, which has been identified in
their properties with the goal that the with their dream of elm restoration in numerous elms in Sheffield.
trees be transplanted to spots along our town. Since its founding in 1999, Elm
Sheffield's public roads when they Watch has protected over 85 elm trees
reached an appropriate size. Tri-state elm protection in the tri-state area, including 1 1 in
In 1996 that time came, and Joan Tom Zetterstrom of Canaan, CT, Sheffield. Six trees have been adopted
organized a group of residents to lover of trees, photographer, and by individuals, one by a business, and
transplant between 30 and 40 trees, Founding Director of Elm Watch, three by organizations. Eighteen trees
then 5 to 8 feet high, throughout shares a similar dream. Elm Watch, a still need adoption, one on Silver
Street, two on Root Lane, one on 7A, Eagle Fund Challenge Grant From Cox Charitable Foundation
one on Rannapo Rd., two on Hewins The Eagle Fund of the Southern pledged since then, the goal is to raise
St., one near the Colonel Ashley House, Berkshire School District has accepted at least $12,000 each year through
one on Rote Hill Rd., one on Boardman a matching fund challenge from the 2004. A variety of fund-raising efforts
St. and seven on Rt. 7. Interested Jessie B. Cox Charitable Trust, head- are being planned, along with a general
residents (either individually or as a quartered in Boston. The challenge push on the part of the Eagle Fund to
group) or organizations can call 413- calls for the Eagle Fund to raise better acquaint the public with its
266-1062 for more information. Elm $40,000 within three years, and the Cox mission. Together with the Berkshire
Watch is a fund of the Berkshire Trust will then award an additional Taconic Community Foundation, which
Taconic Community Foundation and, $20,000. As an incentive, the CoxTrust manages its account, the Eagle Fund
as such, all contributions, including is giving the Eagle Fund $1,500 at the will be seeking support not only
adoptions, are tax deductible. outset to assist in developing a three- through charitable contributions, but
Elm Watch has helped develop a year strategy. through working with interested
nursery of the newer disease-resistant Founded in 1997 by citizens of the residents in bolstering the endowment
varieties at the Housatonic Valley five towns in the Southern Berkshire through beneficent estate planning.
Regional High School in Falls Village, Regional School District, the Eagle For information on the Eagle Fund,
CT, where students tend the trees as Fund is building an endowment to or to send contributions, write to The
part of the horticultural program at enrich and expand the range of Eagle Fund, c/o The Berkshire
the school's agricultural education educational experiences for the children Taconic Community Fund, 271 Main
center. Because the trees grow three of Alford, Egremont, Monterey, New St., Great Barrington, MA 01230.
feet per year (attaining heights of 70 Marlborough, and Sheffield. In its first
feet or more), these resistant elms four years, the Eagle Fund grew to
should be available for transplant in a almost $250,000, as a result of gener- The. "Enchantedffiorist
few years. Elm Watch hopes to help ous donations to annual mailings and
start similar programs in other schools phon-a-thons and with the help of a
With the combined efforts of particularly generous bequest from the
ReELM and Elm Watch, it is possible estate of a Monterey resident.
that our public roads will again be The Eagle Fund plans to build its
graced with a canopy including the endowment over the coming years
classic elm. As Ann Barrett says, "The while using the interest to award
pictures of old Sheffield demonstrate grants to students, staff, and commu-
how majestic these elms were. It was nity members for projects that are of
like driving through a green cathedral. educational or cultural value to district
These trees would leave a legacy for participants. The first grants were
future generations." awarded in the spring of 1999, and,
If you would like to participate in since then, $25,000 has been given in
ReELM or you have questions, com- support of projects in computer
ments or ideas, call Ann Barrett at 229- technology, the sciences, drama, music,
7953 or email her at dance, photography, reading, and gi Main Street
[email protected]. For more creative writing. Canaan, Connecticut 06018
information on Elm Watch call (413) "The clock began ticking January 860.824.Sm
1
226-1062. Tax deductible donations of this year," on the Cox Charitable DeliveryAvailable
may be sent to Elm Watch/Adopt-an- Trust challenge grant according to in South County
Elm, RO. Box 655, Great Barrington, Eagle Fund Chairman Catherine B.
MA 01230. - Ellen Rowntree Miller. With nearly $4,000 already Jude%ent 'BarbaraMorgan
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NAIU SY
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M^o/cA^ AT^ET'SMAGICK
ACRYLICS * MANICURES* PEDICURES * TIPS
WRAPS * GELS * SCULPTURED NAILS * MESSAGE
Corner of Rt. 7 and Maple Ave. and HAND PAINTED NAIL ART
MA. 01257
Sheffield, ON THE CORNER OF ROUTE 7 AND MAPLE AVE
Ph.(413)2293120 413-229-3120 SHEFFIELD, MA BY APPOINTMENT
NEWS
community
* Food Program
Every Monday morning volun-
teers from our community gather
OLD PARISH CHURCH at Old Parish Church to distribute
food to individuals and families
Special outreach
Old Parish United Church of Christ is who, for a variety of reasons, just
located in the center of Sheffield. The Men's Group. The second Sunday of can't "do it all." Food is donated
church welcomes not only members but every month, the church hosts a men's from area churches and busi-
anyone who would like to come and group that discusses current issues and nesses (Big Y, Price Chopper, etc.)
worship, even if it's just for a special reflects on them from an ethical and and bought from donated funds.
service. Here are upcoming events: faith perspective. 7:45 to 8:45am at Old Sally Cook and Phyllis Joyce
Parish Church. Coffee and muffins are coordinate the program. If you, or
Services served. someone you know, is in need of
Sunday March 3. The Rev. John Bereavement group. An open-ended food assistance, call the church
Wightman from Sheffield will fill in for bereavement group to help people "walk office (229-81 73) or stop in on
the Rev. Art Kaufman, who will be away. Mondays from 9:30-10:30am.
through" their loss of a loved one meets
Sunday, March 10. The "Glory Be"
on the first Wednesday of the month at
Clown Ministry Troupe will be partici-
Old Parish Church from 10 to 1:15am.
1
pating in the worship service, 10am. Anyone is welcome whether your loss is The money for this fund comes from
March 7, 14, 21. The church is recent or not. The group is led by the contributions made by area churches
holding a Lenten study on Thursdays Rev. Art Kaufman. For more informa- and individuals. Currently the fund is
from 1 1:30am-12:30pm. Led by the Rev. tion, call 413-229-8173. administered by Old Parish Church.
Art Kaufman, t—he theme is "wrestling Anyone needing help may call the
with the spirit" God's and our own. The Good Samaritan Fund. Started in church (229-8173) or Rev. Kaufman
Easter services. Maundy Thursday, the early '80s by churches in the Shef- (229-2403). The fund needs replenish-
March 28, the church will hold a service field area, the fund provides immediate ment. Anyone wishing to make dona-
at 7:30pm. Good Friday March 29, the financial assistance with no strings tions should write their checks out to
church will open for prayer and medita- attached to individuals or families in "Good Samaritan Fund" and mail to
tion from 12-3pm. Services Easter crisis. It has helped people with rent, Old Parish Church, P.O. Box 387,
Sunday March 31, will be at 10am. fixing cars. Davin? for heat, and so forth. ShpffiplH MA mo*.-!
INSURANCE
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HOMES LAND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES
• •
REAL
ESTATE
8
Churches and Services
PURIM CARNIVAL AT HEVREH Sheffield Clayton Road [phone];parsonage
Christ Church (Episcopal) [phone].
Hevreh of S. Berkshire's Junior Youth 180Main Street [phone] Sunday: 9:30am SundaySchool (ages 3-
Group, SCOOBY, will present its Sunday: 8am & 10am Holy Eucharist; 10am adult); 10:30amWorshipService, nursery
Annual Purim Carnival during and SundaySchool &childcare;Thursday 10am careprovided. Rev. Edward Eastman,
after Religious School on Sunday, Holy Eucharist& Healing. Rev. Susan H. Pastor
March 3 from 12:00- 1:30pm. Many Crampton Trinity Methodist (United Methodist)
of last year's favorite games and Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses 1156Ashley Falls Road [phone]
booths will return, such as goldfish Route 7 & Kellogg Road [phone] Sunday: 10am Ser\ice Pastor Betty
LeGeyt
and bean bag toss. Look for other new Thepublic is welcome.
Faith Baptist Great Barrington
and exciting activities as well. Pizza
640North Main Street [phone] Congregation Ahavath Shalom
and other triangular snacks will be on
Sunday: 10am SundaySchool; lam Worship (reconstructionist)
1
sale. Costumes are welcome! Service; 6pm BibleStudy;Thursday: 7pm North Street [phone] Friday, 8pm
The public is invited to attend PrayerMeeting. Rev. H. Shelton Cole & Saturday, 10am. Servicesarenotheld
Hevreh's Purim events. For informa- Old Parish (United Church of Christ) everyweek Schedules areupdated weekly
tion, please contact Elinor Really or 125 Main Street [phone] on theansweringmachine, includingspecial
Alice Lahnstein at [phone]. Sunday: 10am Worshipand Church School. services.
Sunday, Rev.ArtKaufman, Pastor Hevreh of Southern Berkshire
OurLadyof theValley (Catholic) 270State Road [phone] Friday:
MapleAvenue [phone] 7:30pmShabbatService; Saturday: 10am
Buy Local! Saturday: 5:30pmMass;Sunday:Sheffield Shabbatservice&Torah study. Rabbi
7:30am 9am Masses; Mill River 1O30Mass. DeborahZecher,
Most of our advertisers Rev.John S. Lis Assistant Rabbi Andrew Klein.
Sheffield Chapel (non-denominational) Trinity Lutheran
are local businesses.
1970North Main Street [phone] StJames 352 Main Street(413) 528-1330
Let them know you read Sunday: 8am& 1045amMorningWorship; Sunday: 9:30amSundayWorship. Rev.
9:30amSundaySchool. Tuesday: 7pm Prayer GeorgeE. Mayer
about them in the Meeting. PastorChet Howes Unitarian Universalist Meetingof South
www.sheffieldchapel.org Berkshire
Sheffield Times. AshleyFalls StJames, 352 Main Street church (413)
Grace Bible (Conservative Baptist) 528-4850, home [phone].
Sunday: 5pm. Rev. KathyDuhon
MOUNT EVERETT HIGH SCHOOL
PRESENTS
A MUSICAL
BOOK BY
SUGGESTED BYTHE
Arthur Laurents
MEMOIRS OFGYPSY
LYRICS BY ROSE LEE
Stephen Sondheim
In association with
MUSIC BY Tams-Whitmark
Jule Styne March 8 & 9 7 pm March 10 2 pm Music Library
Directed by
&
5ruce R. Hill Cnarles J. Cougnlin
Artistic Director Music Director Orchestra Director
Robert W. Law John Sauer Riclc blaclcDum
THE THOMAS CONSOLATI PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
A.
Mount Everett School, Sheffield Box Office 4 3-229-8252
1
&
$7.00 General Admission $5.00 Seniors Students
vGillRagEe EN
% TOWN MEETING, MONDAY, MAY 2002
6,
TOWN ELECTION, MONDAY, MAY 13, 2002
SENIOR CENTER TOWN CLERK
New Home for Sheffield Seniors? Dog Licenses
The Sheffield Senior Center is making a concerted effort to On sale at the Town Clerk's Office starting March 18,
determine if Sheffield can qualify for a sizable grant from 2002. Dog licenses must be purchased by 4pm on April 30,
HUD, the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, if dog owners want to avoid paying a $25 penalty plus the
through its Dept. of Housing and Community Development, license fee. Please mark your calendars. Licensing of dogs
sufficient to build our own Senior Center. The lease at is a requirement of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Dewey Hall expires in July 2003, and our search for a Sheffield dog licenses expire on March 3 All persons
1.
suitable and convenient building has so far not been success- having a dog must license that dog within thirty days of
ful. Just think! Our own Center! The Center needs the help moving into town.
of all Sheffield seniors to help make this happen.
Essential in the qualifying process is a survey of Sheffield Rabies shots. You need to provide rabies information to
seniors' income levels, information that the town census does obtain a dog license. Do not wait until the last minute to
not cover. The survey is anonymous. When you get the one- get your dog's rabies shot from veterinarians, as this is a
page questionnaire, the Senior Center Survey, please recog- busy time for them. The Town Clerk will be selling dog
nize its importance and return the completed survey in the licenses at the Cub Scouts Rabies Clinic, held at the Town
provided business envelope. The survey goes directly to the Garage, on Saturday, April 6 from 1 to 2:30pm. Rabies shots
Pittsfield office of the Berkshire Housing Development are $9 each.
—
Corporation, which will do the analysis it is not seen by
anyone in Sheffield. Watch for this purvey being mailed out Annual Town Census
at the end of February or beginning of March. Fill it out The Town Clerk and Board of Registrars thank all resi-
and send it back. dents who returned their census forms on time. If you have
The mailing is underwritten by a generous gift from the not responded, please do so immediately. Returning census
Kiwanis Club of Sheffield. forms on time cuts down on the expense of having someone
—Rae Eastman, 229-7022
call. These are your tax dollars at work.
PLANNING BOARD
Deadlines for Election Candidates
At its February 19 meeting, the Board discussed information and Voter Registration
gathered at the January 15 public hearing for the Special
Permit application submitted by MicTan Properties to add Here is the schedule for filing nomination papers for candi-
dates running for town office, and for registering to vote in
additional storage units to their existing facility on Rte 7.
town meeting and/or the annual town election.
The Board engaged in lively deliberations, discussing
The last day to:
concerns about lighting, landscaping and other impacts on
Obtain nomination papers from Town Clerk: Friday,
the area. It then discussed potential solutions to these
March 22, 4pm.
concerns before the deliberations were tabled at the request
Submit nomination papers for certification: Monday,
of MicTan's attorney. MicTan will provide additional
information at the March 5 meeting, at which time the Board March 25, 4pm.
will continue deliberations on the application. The Board Object or withdraw: Wednesday, April 10, 4pm
has 90 days from the closing date of the Special Permit Register to vote: Tuesday, April 16. Special registration
session: 9am to 8pm.
Public Hearing to issue its decision on the application.
4,
413.229.0296
Thaddeus B. Kubis 6f.> 'r/// f /£<*f
CasaMiaStudio
Ashley Falls
Massachusetts 01222
photography
413/229-3355
10