News and Views from North Farm — November/December 2013

Tree Dilemma: Finding a Way Through the Transition By Jean Talbot

As of the Board of Governors’ meeting on October 24, the minority voices raised in protest against the Grounds Committee and the Board continue unabated. The protesters question not only the activities specifically in regard to tree removal, but also the intentions of the beleaguered volunteers who have devoted many hours over the last three or more years to the development of a landscape plan. There has been much research by both “sides” concerning past decisions and policies, but the reconciliation of our differences still seems to be a distant dream. In the course of the efforts of the BOG and GC, there have been meetings and consultations with various authorities and professionals, including arborists, tree surgeons, lawyers, a landscape architect and the State conservation officials. We were proceeding within all the parameters in creating a plan to conserve North Farm’s long-neglected landscape, assure its safety and improve its attractiveness — as well as to restore water views which had been lost. The final plan was carefully thought out, legal and ultimately economical. What perhaps was not adequately considered was the visual effect of the transitional period between tree removal and tree replacement growth. If we could go back to the beginning, but this time with the input of the Continued on page 11 November/December 2013

The North Farm staff includes, left to right, Fern Lautkin, Pete Sherman, Marcelino Giraldo, Justin Becker and Stella Munro.

Dedicated Staff Keeps NF Running

By Carol Glanville The Masthead thought it was time Peter Sherman is from Dartto visit the people who take care of mouth. Pete and Linda have four our homes, so I found myself in the grandkids between them. He has been woodshop next to the barn visiting at North Farm since 1996—17 years!! the work crew. Justin Becker lives in Swansea with his girlfriend and their 20-month ALSO IN THIS ISSUE old daughter. He is the youngest of the crew and the one you see up on Risk Tips p 2 the roof cleaning gutters. North Farm Directory Changes p2 Marcelino Giraldo, who lives in North Farm Real Estate p2 Pawtucket with his wife, is a newcomEditorial p3 Book Club p4 er to North Farm. He has experience The Lost Wife in plumbing, carpentry and electrical Twelve Years a Slave work. He is a soccer player—forward Full Channel—Making Technology line! More Neighborly p5 M. What is the nicest part of workStories My Cupboards Can Tell Part 2 p 6 Sunset Cocktail Party p7 ing at North Farm? North Farm Memories p8 Marcelino—Oh, it is beautiful. I like Bristol ... From Forests to Colony p9 the pond with the ducks very much. The Beehive Restaurant p 10 And I like (that) it’s not the same Kitchen Korner p 12 thing every day. I like the change. Classified Ad p 13 Pete—And the drive into Bristol is Community Calendar p 15 Wine Tasting Party p 16 just great scenery—I don’t know Continued on page 13 The Masthead

Page 1

Risk Tips

From the Risk Committee ●● Change the batteries in your smoke As the days grow shorter and shorter detector, carbon monoxide detector and (sigh!), keep in mind that your evening thermostat. or early morning stroll may occur in the ●● Check the gauge on your fire extindark. Since we have no sidewalks, dress guisher to be sure it is still charged, and in light-colored or reflective clothing, refill or replace as needed. Review the walk facing traffic and carry a flashlight. instructions for operating your fire extin●● When driving, if there is no onguishers. coming traffic or vehicle in front of you, ●● As the holidays approach, more of consider checking out the road with your us will be using candles and fireplaces. high beams to make sure you won’t be Keep in mind that an adult should be in surprised by a pedestrian. any room where a candle or fireplace is Other seasonal reminders: in use. Small children often enjoy watch●● Units are required to have smoke ing a fire, but should be kept at a safe detectors, carbon monoxide detectors distance. and fire extinguishers on each level. Resi●● If you use holiday lighting, please dents are responsible for acquiring and check cords for damage before using. maintaining these devices.

North Farm Directory Changes

As of November 8, 2013 Corrections to New Printed Directory: Unit 8 — Gordon & Nancy Stone: Add home phone: 253-4984 Unit 66 — Ian Shepard is owner; renter is Linda Nagy Unit 69 — Bernard Kwan is owner; renter is Robert Gaiser Unit #127 — Add Herbert Sackett Phone 254-0863 Unit #467 — Robert Hawkins: Correct email [email protected] Unit 521 — Paul & Jane Tancrell, add cell phone: 529-2378 Unit 521 — Add email: Jane Tancrell: [email protected] Unit 521 — Add email: Paul Tancrell: [email protected] Current Directory Changes: Unit 2 Mary Lou Sylvia Unit 38 Alison Melo Unit 511 Patrick & Nina McCarthy Unit 95 Eleanor M. DiSaia Unit 426 Amy Briant Unit 511 Steve Jennings

New Owner New Owner New Owners New Owner New Renter New Renter

(915) 205-5588

North Farm Real Estate

By Marilyn Weiner CENTURY 21 Rondeau Associates The North Farm housing recovery is well underway. After years of declining value, sale prices are continuing to climb. The market has fallen back into balance and our inventory of units for sale is the lowest in years. There is a true feeling of optimism. Recent North Farm activity as of Nov. 10, 2013 Active Listings: 137 Windward Lane $389,900 266 North Farm Dr $325,000 326 North Lane $324,500 526 High Meadow Ct $279,000 Under Contract with Back-up: 422 North Lane $249,000 Sold: 38 Sea Breeze Ln 2 Sea Breeze Ln 511 Clark’s Row 95 Windward Ln

$252,000 10/10/13 $227,500 10/11/13 $195,000 11/1/13 $270,000 11/7/13

H ow to fix it? Call Mark Fixit. 245-0470 241-5947 Helping make N. Farm homes beautiful and functional for over 8 years.

(Mark Wholey, painting, grab bars, decorating)

Page 2

The Masthead

November/December 2013

Editorial Editorial Board Bruce Amand Joanna Coppola Anne Danzberger Therese Darmody Herman Ferreira Miana Franzen Carol Glanville Helen Hawkins Jo Lovell Rob Mariani Bill Peckham Dotty Peckham Maggie Pratico Jean Talbot Caroline Wood Editor, Bruce Amand Treasurer, Miana Franzen Advertising, Bill Peckham, Dotty Peckham Production & Layout, Jo Lovell Distribution, Rob Mariani The Masthead is an independent newsletter. We welcome contributions from members of the community. Material submitted is subject to editorial approval and revision. Please submit material by e-mail or on disk to the Editor.

The Times They Are A-Changin’

I still use our “low tech” Bristol, Warren and Barrington libraries. But I also own a Kindle electronic book reader. That means if I want to buy a Kindle book (before taking a trip or whatever), I simply go to Amazon.com, look it up, enter my password and, a few minutes or hours later, the book selected shows up on my Kindle ready to read. On a recent weekend, I even purchased Grisham’s new book, Sycamore Row, and Amazon told me that it wouldn’t show up until its release date, the following Wednesday. Sure enough, it did. The discounted price for Kindle books then showed up on our Visa the following month. You can also borrow Kindle books for free from a local library — a bit more involved, but still doable. Problem is they expire after three weeks, so it’s best not to borrow two or three at once unless you’re a very fast reader. That example may be old hat to many of you. But I still think the way Kindle works is remarkable.

As one who’s been out of the work force for a couple years, I’m continually blown away by the way technology has changed things and will continue to change things. The biggest current example is probably cell phones — now largely smart phones. Twenty years ago, world-wide, there were 20 million cell phone subscribers. Today, there are 6.8 billion. It’s hard to even guess what the next 20 years will bring. Even today, people are using cell phones and tablets as mini-computers, to pay bills and for scores of other purposes (or “apps”). One writer suggests that sometime soon, we’ll be carrying smart phones with us all the time the same way we carry wallets today. It will be interesting to see how that technology changes our lives in the next two to three years — even for us condo-dwellers with grey hair. Bruce Amand 253-9602 [email protected]

Classified ad policy: 30 word maximum. Cost $10.00. Checks to The Masthead, noted Classified, may be sent to 1359 Hope St., Bristol, RI 02809. Limited to items to sell or buy and services to provide. No personals. Only phone numbers and web addresses listed. Letters to the Editor are limited to 250 words.

Visit our new and expanded website: www.northfarm.org November/December 2013

The Masthead

Page 3

“Twelve Years a Slave” By Solomon Northup

“The Lost Wife” by Alyson Richman

While reading “The Lost Wife,” I was reminded of the history of the plight of Jews during World War II in Europe, and particularly the role that artists played during the war. In the last moments of calm in prewar-Prague, Lenka, a young art student, and Josef, at university studying medicine, fall in love. With the promise of a better future, they marry; however, their dreams are shattered by the imminent Nazi invasion. As often happened, they were separated by the currents of the war. Now a successful obstetrician in America, Josef has never forgotten the wife he believes died in the war. But in the Nazi ghetto of Terezin, Lenka survived. She relied on her skills as an artist and the memory of the husband she thought she would never see again. Years later, many miles, and countries away, there is an unexpected encounter in New York. Could it be? Were they both in the same place? Did they indeed recognize each other? From a wonderful life in Prague before the Nazi occupation to the Continued on page 11

Solomon Northup was a 19th century free African-American, living a normal, working-class life in New York. He was married and had three children. Then, in 1841, Mr. Northup was drugged, kidnapped and sold into slavery. Threatened with death when he protested that he was free, he decided to keep his thoughts to himself and watch for an opportunity to escape and return home. He was shipped to Louisiana to work on a plantation. According to footnotes in the edition I read (edited by Sue Eakin and Joseph Logsdon), most slaves who escaped to freedom were from states that shared borders with free states; very few managed to overcome the obstacles to escape from the deep south. As the author noted, plantation owners hired patrols to capture any slave who left a plantation without written permission, and any white person had the right to detain an African-American who could not prove himself free. The individual who captured and returned a slave could expect a reward for doing so. Physical barriers were also significant,

since the area was replete with swamps and bayous. (Slaves were not allowed to learn to swim, according to this book.) This autobiographical account is filled with depictions of the brutal and dehumanizing nature of slavery — a mother and her two young children sold to three separate buyers, savage beatings, murderous attacks and the day-to-day humiliations of being treated as less than human. Slaves were regarded as useful property, and the author compares their status to that of farm animals. The author was rescued from slavery in 1853 after an abolitionist agreed to mail letters to New York for him. (Though Mr. Northup could read and write, no postmaster would accept a letter from a slave without the master’s permission. And of course, just getting to a post office without permission would have been a serious challenge.) The governor of New York, after receiving sworn statements from Mr. Northup’s family and friends that he was a free New York citizen being held in slavery, sent an agent to Louisiana to obtain his freedom and escort him home. His relief and gratitude over his return to freedom are stark reminders that his fellow slaves Continued on page 11

Barbara (Bibi) Arditte Real Estate Sales Associate

North Farm Resident East Bay Specialist Special rebate for active or retired military & families

Call:

401-457-1750 (direct) 401-575-1575 (cell)

[email protected]

RHODE ISLANDÕS REAL ESTATE COMPANY¨

259 County Road, Barrington, RI 02809

Page 4

The Masthead

November/December 2013

Full Channel — Making Technology More Neighborly In this age of computer-driven technology and faceless interaction, most people who live or work in the Bristol/ Warren/Barrington area can actually walk into the offices of their internet provider, be greeted cheerfully by an actual person and have their questions or problems addressed one-on-one by an expert. It’s called “personalized service,” which is what’s made Full Channel TV so popular… and successful. Full Channel is a family company, not some clouddwelling entity in cyber space. They have a street address just like their customers do. And they have a neighborhood history that goes back several generations. It was started in Warren back in 1965 by the family’s grandfather, John Donofrio, a World War II vet who returned to civilian life, became a TV repair man and worked his way up to manager of Providence’s first FM radio station, WPFM. Today Donofrio’s grandson, Levi C. Maaia, and Levi’s mom, Linda Jane Maaia, share Presidential and CEO duties

AUSTIN WINDOW CLEANING

WE KNOW YOur PANE

November/December 2013

By Rob Mariani

at Full Channel TV, while Levi’s Dad, William, is the firm’s legal counsel. Levi has been web-designing since the 1990’s and, while in college, he worked on a project called “Green Link TV,” a streaming precursor to YouTube at a time when on-line video was some-

what unusual. In the ‘80’s, Linda Maaia worked in East Providence to help set up one of the area’s first computer labs. Despite being a small business compared to the national companies offering the same services, Full Channel offers its residential and business cus-

You don’t do windows. Fortunately, we do. Call today to schedule an appointment. You’ll see why so many of your neighbors depend on us.

401.617.9221

austinwindowcleaning.com

The Masthead

tomers faster speeds and more channels for less money. They also offer customers the option of having their TV, Internet and phone services delivered using wind power—for just $1 per program a month. In addition, Full Channel’s entire Everett Street facility is powered by green, clean, renewable energy, in keeping with their commitment to the community they serve. As another way of thanking its local customers, Full Channel is offering its “2013 Happy Holidays Shout Out,” a drawing to select 10 lucky businesses in Barrington, Warren and Bristol to receive a free holiday TV commercial. “Being a family business,” says Levi Maais, “means we can make decisions and implement them more efficiently because there aren’t a lot of ‘layers’ and ‘approvals’ to go through.” And so, what’s the next “big thing” Full Channel’s family will be bringing to our neighborhood? “TV Everywhere!” Levi exclaims. “With Full Channel’s TV Everywhere platform, our customers can watch their favorite TV networks and shows from their PCs, smart phones, tablets and laptops using the Internet. We’ve already got some networks available and many more are in the works.” It’s hard to imagine that a small, local company can supply this level of modern technology along with the kind of personalized service that’s become a rarity today. And it’s all right in our own backyard.

Page 5

The Stories My Cupboards Can Tell Part 2

Memories of Heritage, Holidays and Dishes

By Carolione Wood Each time I open my china cupboard, ball with my brothers in the side yard, the memories come rushing back! after they had moved some tables and Coupe, who always came with sur The organ music was still playing chairs to make room for the extra prises! as I left the church hand in hand with people at the table. Everyone was inThe day before, my mom my dad. I volved in some way. and I had been at my aunt’s was about I was there to help my other coushouse to help with the prepsix years ins, Merilyn, Letty and Marcia, who arations for the big dinner. old and were several years older than I. We The kitchen was alive with wearing were to get all the dishes and glassthe clatter of pots and pans my pretware we would need from the china and those special smells of tiest dress cupboard to set the table for the holiThanksgiving. The fresh turalong day party the next day. I loved being key had been with my delivered black pat(along with ent leaththe feathers) er shoes, and had to with be trussed. white A big pot of socks potatoes was turned Twin sisters Villette and Vivienne, with boiling on down, the old threeCaroline. the way burner gas my mothstove that had an oven er liked them. My mother, who alon one side. Thanksgiving family gathering at Auntie Villette’s house ways liked to wear the proper attire, Of course, there was in a pretty blue suit and matchwith my cousins; they called me “Sis” was butternut squash to prepare and ing hat with veil; my father and two and made me feel special and grown cranberry sauce to make, along with older brothers in their best pants up. I loved the fact that our holidays all the other traditional foods that and blazers. It was Thanksgiving Day Continued on page 12 make a holiday dinner so special. and we would soon be on our way to Gertie, a lady that helped my aunt my Auntie Villette’s house for a big around the house, was busy making holiday celebration! All my cousins stuffing for the turkey. My youngest would be there, along with Grandma cousin, Bob, was playing touch footand Grandpa White and Uncle Frank

Page 6

The Masthead

November/December 2013

North Farm Memories

Sunset Cocktail Party — North Farm parties are all nice, but this one in September was especially pleasant and relaxing. Hors d’oeuvres were great (provided by all who came). Looking at the sunset was the most demanding activity of the evening. Thanks to Carol Glanville and Tina Anderson who did the work. -BA (Photo by Carol Glanville)

November/December 2013

The Masthead

Continued from page 8 Gordon was involved with the board for almost 17 years, most of that time as the President. They have lived through three different North Farm bankruptcies, and Gordon suggested the problems were probably more controllable during those first years. Even though the monthly fees were low and they only had enough money to pay for necessities, everyone chipped in and took care of their units. With no formal maintenance management system, people were asked to retain any maintenance receipts and, if it was an expense that should have been covered (i.e. replacement windows), they would be repaid. Mary Lou, Nancy and Gordon entertained me with their lively conversation, remembering how they enjoyed the camaraderie of the small close-knit community, people gathering for informal get-togethers, organized trips to Boston Pops, New York City and many local events. They discussed the struggles for some interested buyers who had put money down to buy properties, but the units never got built under that builder. They talked about living through construction of the remaining units, the Blizzard of ’78, the bankruptcies, the variety of managers and builders, the bank ownership….all stories in themselves. And the memories continue…..

Page 7

North Farm Memories

In this issue, memories shared by By Maggie Pratico 1976: Nancy and Gordon Stone Mary Lou Riker and Gordon and ing, tennis courts, the arboretum and and their three adult children, Jeff, Nancy Stone: the first in-ground swimming pool in Doug and Sue, moved to North 1968 Bristol Phoenix: “Highthe state. “This is where we Rise Luxury Apts. Project submitted want to live” was their imto Council” —High-rise luxury apartmediate reaction. Mary Lou ment buildings at the 80-acre North and her family built many Farm site are memories here, inenvisioned in cluding the addition plans revealed of her son, JR Riker Wednesday III, who just hapnight at the pens to be the first Town Counchild to be born of cil meeting. North Farm parents The petition in what was then an requested that all-adult communithe zoning of ty! Although JR has North Farm be moved on because of changed from his own family and Nancy and Gordon Stone, in the early NF years. its present work commitments, “residential” Farm. First living in rental units prior he continues to be enthralled to “high-rise to buying, they have lived here for with the North Farm location apartments.” more than 38 years. and living, coming back often to Louis Mary Lou Riker, in recent photo. visit and enjoy the community. Continued on page 7 Sunderland is head of the group to be known as Relaxation ~ Rejuvenation ~ Pain Relief ~ Healing “North Farm, Bristol, R.I. Land Development Trust.” 60 acres would be devoted to residential use and the remaining 20 acres for open land and Licensed Massage Therapy arboretum. Starting rentals would be Kristin B. Dalbec $250 monthly. With the concurrence of the voters of Bristol, the high-rise con(401) 330-8321 cept will permit “the retention of the beautiful part areas of the North Farm Barrington Warren Bristol site and an unobstructed view of Narragansett Bay.” 1969: “Hi-Rise pelted at 3rd hearing” — the idea of high-rise apartments met with a cool reception and was vetoed by a margin of 18-2… 1973: The first condo building went up at North Farm in Bristol, Rhode Island, and …. 1975: Mary Lou and Joe Riker purchased Unit #41, one of the original units in the North Farm community. They owned Unit #25 and, later, #504. Mary Lou and her husband Joe, who passed in April of 2004, fell in love with 80+ acres of land right on Narragansett bay, yacht club, boat-

Golden Touch Healing

Page 8

The Masthead

November/December 2013

Bristol: From Wampanoag Forests to British Colony Here is a short synopsis of how Bristol changed from Wampanoag forested lands to settled British colony. It came about after the horrific war called King Philip’s War—the Wampanoag Nation had been practically annihilated. This left Metacom’s (King Philip’s) lands vacant. According to George Howe, famous Bristol author and historian, British records show that our town was purchased by Plymouth (MA) in 1679 for an “annual quit-rent of seven beaver skins, to be delivered at Windsor each Saint John’s Day.” But there isn’t a record of its ever being paid! On September 1 of that year Plymouth Colony sold the 7,000 acres for £1100 to the Boston group of investors, Byfield, Burton, Oliver and Walley. On September 24th, the title was transferred. They not only transferred the title, but they also performed the ancient Turf & Twig ceremony. This

November/December 2013

by Sage The four Proprietors carefully laid out a plan for Bristol. Howe claims act originated in the feudal period as Sir Christopher Wren drew the plat. I the symbol of land transfer from the have heard—Brislord to his vassal. tol legend—that It was a simple act the streets are extra that even illiterwide, 4 to 6 rods ate peasants would wide, for fire preunderstand. The vention because Sir Colony’s repreChristopher, who sentative pulled a was still rebuilding clod of earth from London after the the ground and he Great Fire in 1666, broke off a twig knew the dangers from the branch of narrow streets. above him. Mr. Howe says Walley accepted the the Proprietors turf and twig from didn’t want streets the agent on behalf to come into being of his syndicate. because of wind The next year, ing foot and cow on September 1, paths! So the four 1680, the first town Nathaniel Byfield main north/south meeting was held streets were platted and then nine and the land was named Bristol after cross streets were put in so you could the large port city of England. see the bay at each intersection as you walked along the main streets. Byfield first chose Mt. Hope lands for himself, but quickly traded that land for Poppasquash. Other proprietors also kept the best lands for themselves. Next, they allowed the first 60 takers to buy a downtown house lot and ten acres of farm outlands. Also platted was the Common and church yard, as required of Massachusetts towns. Maverick Rhode Island didn’t have those requirements so you don’t find The Common in RI towns. Bristol, however, began its existence as part of Plymouth and, in 1690, Massachusetts. Rich folks built big homes. However all first settlers were required to build two-story houses because town fathers wanted Bristol to look prosperous right from the start. So early Bristolians built their houses two stories at the front and one story at the back. It was called a camelopard (camel) roof house. Yes, a saltbox style! Continued on page 14 The Masthead

Page 9

Bristol Just Wouldn’t Be Bristol Without The Beehive It would be really hard to describe The Beehive’s ambiance without using the word “cozy” at least a few times. However, I will try to restrain myself because the food at the Beehive truly outshines the unpretentious atmosphere in which it is served. Owner Jennifer Caravallo, who is from the UK, moved here in 1987. She’s had a life-long affinity for baking breads and creating desserts. In 2010, what began as a breakfast/lunch enterprise at 10 Franklin Street soon became a fullfledged restaurant. Jennifer and her talented chef Eli Dunn (formerly of Warren’s popular Three Rivers) have always been committed to serving locallyproduced foods prepared in their own seasonal creations. One warm but breezy night, we arrived a little before 6 p.m. and secured our place on the balcony looking out at The Harbor. There is an interesting, wellfocused selection of beers and wines, and the menu choices for dinner are all quite inventive. One appetizer features The Hive’s Baked Mushrooms made with Arruda’s dairy cream laced with garlic, thyme and sherry and served on grilled house-made bread. Or for a more exotic starter, there’s Moroccan Lentil Salad with baba ghanoush, roasted hummus, grilled feta, herbed yogurt, olives and a Lebanese spiced flatbread. The Hive’s list of entrées includes dishes like Narragansett Creamery Ricotta Gnocchi with sweet corn, lemon and sage brown butter sauce; or a far-

Page 10

By Rob Mariani from-mundane version of Meatloaf made with Aquidnick Farm’s grass-fed beef, smoked bacon, house-made sau-

Jennifer Caravallo, owner of The Beehive

sage and pancetta. There’s Pesto Grilled Chicken with mashed butternut squash, and Northern Thai Chicken Leg marinated in coconut milk and Thai spices. You can also build your own pizza starting with The Hive’s own peerless crust and tomato sauce and adding toppings like roasted mushrooms, pesto, sweet corn, Vermont cheddar, blue cheese, marinated peppers, etc.

The Masthead

For lunch recently, I enjoyed The Hive’s elegant, smoothly-blended Grilled Cheese Sandwich on housemade white bread with tomato, chutney, caramelized onion and smoked bacon. (White bread never tasted so good.) I’ve also enjoyed The Bee Hive’s sweet-but-not-sugary Butternut Squash Sandwich accented with baby spinach and caramelized onions. The Hive’s wide range of breakfast dishes includes their “Big Al’s Cornbread Hash” crumbled with roasted red peppers, basil and goat cheese, served with a duo of Baffoni Farm’s eggs and toast. With dessert options like housemade chocolate chip/macadamia nut cookies to rich savory cheese cakes, fruit pies and scones, it’s no wonder the Hive has become a “dessert destination.” Dinner at the Bee Hive is served Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and prices for entrées range from $13 to $16. For lunch and breakfast meals, nothing exceeds $13. And there are always daily specials in just about every category. With its ambiance, its singular but unpretentious menu and friendly attitude, it would be hard to imagine our hometown of Bristol without The Bee Hive.

November/December 2013

The Lost Wife

Continued from page 4

atrocities of the Nazis, “The Lost Wife” vividly reminds us of the World War II era, the power of love of husband and wife and family, and the resilience of the human spirit. Review by Anne Danzberger

Twelve Years a Slave  

Continued from page 4

had no similar hope and could only have expected a lifetime of misery. I had never seen an American slave’s account of slavery before. This book is an eye opener and I would encourage anyone with an interest in history to check it out. Review by Therese Darmody

 

The Most Famous Name…  In Cleaning & Flooring  325 Market Street Warren 401.289.2700 WWW.JIMMYSTUARTS.COM

November/December 2013

Tree Dilemna

Continued from page 1

residents who have only lately come forward, we might ease this transition by removing only a few trees at a time, allowing time for replacements to fill in. But we can’t go back. We are at least three years down the road. The BOG seems very willing to listen to any constructive ideas about the future, but it can’t put trees back that have already been cut down. The white pines and arborvitae chosen by the earlier developers for their

The Masthead

fast growth and quick visual effectwere not the best choices for the long haul; using them as replacements now would be short-sighted. It’s too bad we have such a divisive issue raising the level of animosity amongst us. Living together is hard; not everyone will be happy with every change. But let’s try to maintain a level of civility and cooperation as we proceed.

What comes next? November 20, Wednesday — Grounds Committee meets. Determines recommendations on tree removals. November 21, Thursday — BOG meets. Receives recommendations from Grounds Committee. Subsequently, data in support of recommendations to be given to BOG. BOG visits sites, evaluates data, asks questions, seeks clarification from Grounds Committee, etc. December 19, Thursday — BOG meets. Recommendations to be acted on.

Page 11

Kitchen Korner By Maggie Pratico

Our recipe today is a vegetarian dish, and comes to us from Therese Darmody. Therese has lived at North Farm since 2007 and likes to travel, cook and experiment with recipes. Therese told me she has a preference for vegetarian dishes, will eat produce, dairy, eggs, grains, seeds and nuts, but not meat or fish. It is not an “animal rights” issue for her, but more that she doesn’t really care for meat or fish.

Stories My Cupboard Tell Continued from page 6

were always spent together, alternating Thanksgiving and Christmas between the two homes each year. I was already looking forward to Christmas at our house …the family Christmas dishes would be gracing our table. Of course, there would be roast beef and popovers, rather than turkey and stuffing. The tree would be sparkling with colored lights and tinsel....Grandma would be playing Christmas carols on the piano and Uncle Frank’s surprises would be under the tree….the boys would be playing pingpong in the basement, and maybe my dad and Uncle Bob would have a little too much eggnog…. but we would all be there together, sharing, caring, laughing, crying…. two families, forever intertwined. Each time I open my china cupboard, I get a warm and cozy feeling... the shelves, full of beautiful china dishes from three generations, sing to me of the love between my mother, Vivienne, and her twin sister, Villette, and the very special closeness of their families. Page 12

Therese and her sister traveled to Spain in the mid 1980’s, and they happened upon a Spanish Tortilla dish, a potato and egg concoction that is often served as an appetizer or snack. They visited a local place

where nobody spoke much English, but that was okay because they both minored in Spanish in college. Upon her return home, Therese experimented with making the dish and now shares her version with us. Enjoy!

Spanish Tortilla Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Ingredients: ●● 6 eggs ●● ½ cup whole milk ●● 3 medium boiling potatoes (sliced about ¼” thick) ●● 1 sweet onion, diced ●● 8 oz. shredded extra sharp cheddar (Manchego might be more authentic, but Therese uses cheddar.) ●● 3 tablespoons olive oil ●● ½ teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste) Heat the olive oil, then add the potatoes and cook on medium until the potatoes can be divided with a plastic spatula (15-25 minutes, depending how thick the slices are). Add the onions and continue cooking until they are translucent. Some of the potatoes should be starting to turn light gold. Whisk the eggs, milk and garlic powder until the mixture is well mixed and somewhat frothy. This now gets baked as a crust-less quiche. Transfer the potato and onion mixture to a baking pan, top with the cheese, then add the egg mixture and bake at 350-375 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Check after 30 minutes and adjust time as needed. The tortilla is done when the egg mixture is lightly browned and set.

The Masthead

November/December 2013

Staff Keeps NF Running

Continued from page 1 what will happen with the tolls….(He comes over the Tiverton Bridge.) Justin—Oh, yah, the wildlife here is awesome, deer, fox, hawks. It’s great. And Rod’s Grill! Pete—We can’t wait for that new wing place to open up on Metacom Ave. M. What is the most difficult part of your job? Justin and Pete—Working in the snow and ice. Dealing with ice. M. Do you have any recommendations for us? Pete—You’re doing the right thingkeeping up with buildings. Keeping ahead of peeling paint and rot. M. What has been your most memorable experience here? Pete—THE FIRE! (A few years back all of Jacob’s Point marsh went up in flames.) Those flames were shooting way up into the sky! Justin agrees—The fire was the biggest thing to happen.

November/December 2013

M. What can we do to improve your department? Justin—The little ‘dozer is a great piece of machinery. We really could use the backhoe attachment. M. What would you use a backhoe for? Justin—we do a LOT of digging! It would save so much time. Pete—For trenching for wires, drainage, small tree stumps and shrub removal—we do a lot of digging. M. How is this golf cart working out? Justin—It is great. There are so many places where the pickup is just too big so we use the cart. But it isn’t strong enough for our work—we could use a stronger one. Over in the office, secretary Fern Lauthin stays bent in concentration over her work; Stella Munro finishes a line of writing and smiles a big “Good morning!” to me. Our North Farm Property Manager hails from South Africa and has the most British round-voweled accent! M. I know how hard you work for us. (I can see from my window that Stella stays late working at her desk.) Tell us what you do on your own time. Stella—I read a lot. I am a big gardener and I like to paint flowers. I work in oil paints. M. What is the best thing to happen to North Farm?

The Masthead

Stella—The Capital Maintenance Plan was really good, really smart. Money in reserve to keep things good is smart, and maintaining and continueing to improve is smart, too. Fern—Gerry Meany ... getting Gerry Meany. M. What would help you improve your work? Stella—Working on-line with people. If we could have more communication through web site notices and people emailing us and we can return their emails. What is in the works? Stella—Power washing and staining decks. But business had to get on and the phones were ringing and people were coming in. So thank you for those minutes of your time and thank you for all you do!

Classified Ad Approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cord of seasoned firewood for sale; metal rack and cover included. Reasonable offer will be accepted. Call Connie at 253-5229.

Tell Our Advertisers You Found Them In The Masthead

Page 13

Wine Tastings Spirits

Continued from page 16 the social committee and North Farm chefs. Maggie Pratico, who arranged and managed the whole event, contributed her delicious mini crab cakes with a dipping remoulade, along with pesto and pepperoni pizza bites. Nancy Stone delivered a hefty platter of shrimp with a dipping sauce, plus some tasty grilled steak bites. Marge Silun, our newest volunteer cook, contributed a captivating combination of Gougeres (puff pastries) and prosciutto, and some delicate Gruyere pinwheel tidbits. Nancy Edler’s sumptuous guacamole dip brought people back to the food table for a lot more than just “seconds,” while Tina Anderson supplied an array of crackers, pretzels and sweet grapes. Martha Moore, dressed in her exotic Halloween cat costume, assisted by keeping the plates, cups and utensils available throughout the evening. The live music for the evening was by North Farm’s very talented guitarist, Kevin Fandel, who tastefully mixed “musical cocktails” of blues, jazz, and pop that kept the party humming. Thanks also to Jeff Stone for his manful efforts in helping to set up and break down the tables and chairs, and to his Dad, Gordon, for his invaluable help coordinating this year’s party. Appreciation for this first-time winetasting event was so outstanding that it looks like it might well become one of North Farm’s signature events.

Bristol History

Continued from page 9 Across from Sip & Dip—and still standing!—is the old Perry-Bosworth house. It was built in 1680 for Pastor Bosworth. It was here in his home that the first church services were held. It wasn’t until a few years later that the Congregational Church was built. Sunday meeting time depended on the tide. The townsfolk crossed Silver Creek over the stepping stones at a lower tide and couldn’t go back until the tide was on the ebb again! The only Proprietor to take more than monetary interest in the town was Nathaniel Byfield. He made his home here. Within a year Nathaniel Oliver had sold his share of the town to a mariner, Nathan Hayman. John Walley left to take charge of a British detachment sent to fight the French in Canada and Stephen Burton, an Oxford graduate, didn’t find much

to occupy a scholar in the new town, only the very hard manual labor required of the early colonists. But Mr. Byfield became a town leader, a judge of probate court for Bristol County and of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas. He moved to Boston at the end of his life and died there in 1733. You can find his gravesite at the Granary Burying Ground, against the Tremont Street fence, in Boston.

KNOWLEDGEABLE. HONEST. RELIABLE. FRIENDLY. And they own Gil’s. Lisa and Gail learned the business early growing up in the store that their parents opened in 1961. From the beginning they concentrated on giving their customers the best brands, selection, service and price. As adults, raising their own families, they've learned first hand what appliances work best.They bring that knowledge to the store every day, along with a 51 year tradition that combines quality, value and personal service that you won't find anywhere else. HOURS: Mon-Wed-Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm Sat 9:00am - 4:00pm

Tues-Thurs 9:00am - 8:00pm Sun Closed - Family Day

397 Metacom Avenue, Rte.136 Bristol, RI 02809 401-253-9789 Fax: 401-253-2404 www.gilsappliances.com

Page 14

The Masthead

November/December 2013



Community Calendar Social Activities

Clip & Save

December 8 — Holiday Cocktail Party, Yacht Club, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Ongoing Social Activities Women’s Bridge every Monday at noon at the Yacht Club (in members’ homes during the winter). Call Dotty Peckham at 253-2840 for information. Men’s Bridge Friday afternoons at the Yacht Club (in members’ homes during the winter). Call Ed Clegg at 253-2563 for information. Cribbage every Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. at the Yacht Club. Call Bill Peckham at 253-2840 for information. Trash Pickup Changes ●● December 25th (Christmas Day): ●● January 1st (New Year’s Day): Pickup Thursday, December 26th. Pickup Thursday, January 2nd

November/December 2013

The Masthead

Board Meetings Board of Governors meets at the Yacht Club on Thursdays, alternating between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. ●● December 19 — 7 p.m. ●● No meetings scheduled until March. Masthead Deadline The deadline for submitting material for publication in the next issue of The Masthead is January 2, 2014. Send articles, suggestions, poetry, photos, etc. to Bruce Amand, Editor, 461 North Lane, or email [email protected].

Page 15

Nothing Spooky About the Spirits that Appeared at The Yacht Club Wine-Tasting By Rob Mariani

Malik of Malik’s Liquors in Warren. To help explain and describe each of the 13 different wines (both whites and reds), Jan enlisted two of his most wine-savvy distributors, Frank Rego from Roger Williams Beverage and Ben Persons from Johnson Brothers. Their extensive knowledge of wines, both domestic and foreign, was truly impressive, and they presented their insights with humor and creativity because, after all, what good is a wine that doesn’t make you smile? The wines selected for tasting ranged from the startlingly robust Martine Codex-Albarino (which our wine experts referred Frank Rego of Roger Williams Beverage (left), Ben Persons to as “Pinot Grigio on stefrom Johnson Brothers (2nd from left) and Jan Malik from roids”) to a classic, multiMalik’s Liquors (right) donated their time and talents to layered Chianti from make the event a success, as did Maggie Pratico, event chair. Tuscany’s Fratelli–Grati

It was not your typical Halloween party this year when a group of about 45 residents showed up at the Yacht Club not for tricks or treats, but for an October wine-tasting event. The dazzling array of wines for the evening was generously provided by Jan

Page 16

The Masthead

Maggie Pratico introduces Kevin Fandel, whose “musical cocktails” kept the party humming happily all evening.

vineyards. While one crowd-pleaser was the crisp and refreshing Edna Valley Chardonnay from San Louis Obispo, perhaps the wine most favored was the 90+ Malbec because of its artfully complex blend of intriguing flavors. Along with the array of spirits, there was the usual plethora of appetizers and side dishes contributed by members of Continued on page 14

November/December 2013