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Postal Patron Sterling, MA 01564

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October 2, 2010

First Church will consider MOU for town common

by S u s a n St a u d a h e r ickie Gaw, moderator of the First Congregational Unitarian Society, told selectmen on September 29 that members of the Unitarian Society would be meeting the following Sunday to discuss the proposed memorandum of understanding between the First Church and the town, regarding the town common. The question of whether the church or the town owns the common has been debated for several months, and town common, page 7

PHOTO by Linda Davis

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This moose was exploring Redstone Hill in Sterling.

Redstone Hill: Home to cows, sheep... and a moose?

by Susan Stau d a h e r fter a moose was spotted on Redstone Hill on September 19, Larry Davis, co-owner of Farmland, joked that it was their newest addition to the collection of farm animals. Perhaps the moose was tempted to see if it could take advantage of free room and board at Farmland, but in the end it kept its independence. A moose was also spotted on Albright Road the same day. On September 20, Sterling dispatch received a report of a moose crossing Route 12, near Mulligan’s Miniature Golf. MassWildlife advises people to stay a respectful distance away from a moose. In most cases, the moose will move on. Moose had been absent from Massachusetts since the early 1700s, according to the MassWildlife website, and “as recently as the 1970s a moose sighting was considered a rare sight.” Moose habitat had disappeared as early settlers cleared the forests for farming, but the habitat has recovered, partly because farms moved to the Midwest. In 2007, MassWildlife biologists estimated that “850 to 950 moose live in Massachusetts, with the moose, page 19

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Certified organic apple business grows in Sterling

by L i s a Pe r r y eople are saying it can’t be done in New England,” said Sterling farmer Cathy Harragian, speaking on the subject of organic apple growing. As a new organic apple producer, she knows it’s a challenge. In fact, Harragian knows she will never produce perfect-looking apples. “There are going to be superficial blemishes,” she said, “but this year’s crop has great quality, so I feel successful.” The 2010 fall crop is the first for Harragian and her partner and sister, Susan Harragin, also a Sterling resident. The farm is named Bird of the Hand Farm and is located on Justice Hill Road Cut-off. The orchard was organic apples, page 14

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In This Issue Letters/Announcements Town News Business News Local Happenings Library News Things to Do Club News Recreation/Senior Center News Bits & Pieces

2-6 7-9 10-11 12-15 16 17 18-19 20-21 22-23

L e t t e r s Who owns the Sterling town common? This has been an active point of discussion at Board of Selectmen meetings since Selectman Russ Philpot first raised the issue of ownership at an August 2009 meeting. At a selectmen’s meeting on August 20, 2008, the Building Needs and Utilization Committee brought a plan to appoint a committee to revitalize and repair the town common. This committee was appointed on September 17, 2008, and asked to come up with a plan. A plan was presented in August 2009 after long and diligent work by the Town Common Revitalization Committee. The issue was put on the back burner until a February 2010 selectmen’s meeting, when Selectman Paul Sushchyk stated that an attorney he knew would research the ownership issue for a fee paid by the town, and it would probably take a couple of weeks.

In April, title examiner Jeremy O’Connell stated there was no clear owner of the common. After paying O’Connell $3,500 for his services, Sushchyk (who is a member of the First Church), along with Selectman Richard Sheppard, decided to let David Gibbs, who is curator of the Sterling Historical Society and historian for the First Church, try to solve the ownership issue. Gibbs reported on August 10 that it is his opinion the First Church owns town common, and he was thanked for his hard work and research. Sushchyk asked the First Church to have a church attorney draw up a memorandum of understanding for selectmen to review. Sushchyk met with fellow church members to review records without notifying all his fellow board members, which is in direct violation of a board policy

enacted by Sushchyk. Sushchyk, who was found in violation of the Open Meeting Law in 2008, and continues to violate policies he enacted, should immediately excuse himself from any further discussions pertaining to the town common or any other issues involving the First Church and the town of Sterling. Maybe without back room politics we can come to a conclusion of this matter that would benefit all parties. Michael Forance Kendall Hill Lane, Sterling

Sterling police logs posted on website

The police logs from the Sterling Police Department will be posted every Wednesday at www .sterlingmeetinghousenews.com.

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Homes for Sale 10 Muddy Pond Rd, Sterling $275,000 19 Oak Hill Ave, Clinton $234,500 3 Gates Terrace, Sterling $249,900 21 Taft Road, Sterling $369,900 39-41 Main Street, Sterling $339,900 11 Cynthia Lane, Sterling $519,900 8 Waushacum Ave, Sterling $429,900 1 Olde Parish Ln, Sterling $299,900 2 Still River Rd, Sterling $299,900 15 Laurel Dr, Ashburnham $204,900 2

Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

37 Mellon Hollow, Sterling $264,900 28 Blossom St, Lexington $519,900 1720 Petersham Rd, Athol $139,900 61 Walworth St, Worcester $169,900 19 Moosehorn Hill, Hubbardston $225,200 114 King Ave, Leominster $249,900 8 Wayne St, Worcester $151,900 34 Princeton St, Leominster $169,900 6 Clemence Ave, Sterling $249,900 Lot 1 Pheasant Hill Ln, Sterling $399,900

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Change to Lisa Beaupre Community Service Scholarship this year

This is the time of year when Sterling students, planning to attend a four-year college after high school graduation, apply for the Lisa Beaupre Community Service Scholarship. This scholarship is based on service through volunteerism. We are aware of a resident of Sterling who, through his efforts in volunteerism, has touched the lives of many in town. This individual, although not a high school senior, is deserving of this award based on his dedicated involvement with the people of Sterling. Unfortunately, this man, Rick Maypother, is unable to continue his volunteer efforts at the present time due to a medical condition. In honor of Rick’s spirit of community activism, we have decided that this year’s $500 Lisa Beaupre Community Service Scholarship will be donated to the Rick Maypother Family Support Fund, in care of the Sterling Firefighters Association. We urge all interested parties to visit the website, www.givelovefight.org, for more information about this and other fundraising efforts. Kevin and Marilyn Beaupre Osgood Road, Sterling

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The Sterling Meetinghouse News is published by Topaz Designs Inc. 10 Loring Way, Sterling, MA www.SterlingMeetinghouseNews.com 978-422-9824 • [email protected] For advertising information, call Carol Ballard at 978-733-1264.

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The next issue will be out on Oct. 16. The advertising and copy deadline is Monday, Oct. 4. Publisher/Editor • Susan Staudaher This Month’s Contributing Writers • Susan Harragin, Lisa Perry, Dilia Marrero Proofreader • Adrienne Rebello Advertising Sales • Carol Ballard Graphic Designer • Susan Staudaher Photographer • Linda Davis The Sterling Meetinghouse News is mailed free of charge to all postal patrons of Sterling. We are not liable for typographical errors in advertisements.

Friday & Saturday Nights, October 15–16, 22–23 & 29–30. Admission 6:30–9pm, closes at 10pm. Join us if you dare – Geared For Adults. Bring your flashlight. Visit the web or call for details. Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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Thank you from Wachusett Earthday

n n o u ncements

Many thanks to everyone from the seven Wachusett towns who participated in another successful collection of paints and chemicals, electronics, bulk items, recyclables, and reusable items on September 18. The weather was great for the Saturday collection at the Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center, 121 Raymond Huntington Highway, West Boylston. The volunteers were strong and willing. The residents were cheerful and appreciative. Thank you to Val’s Restaurant and Holden Pizza for contributing delicious food for the volunteers. The Wachusett Watershed Regional Recycling Center will be open Saturday, October 16, from 8 to 11 a.m. for all items except paints and chemicals. The center will open the third Saturday of each month from 8 to 11 a.m., and will be open on Saturday, November 20, for a full collection of all items, plus paints and chemicals. Modest fees are charged for bulk items, paints, and chemicals. There is no fee for many

recyclable items. Visit www.wachusettearthday.org or your town website for weekday schedules and updates. To join as a volunteer, contact Colleen Abrams at 508-829-3954. Colleen Abrams Wachusett Earthday

Cultural Council looking for members, accepting grant applications

gym at 32 Boutelle Rd., Sterling, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 13, is the deadline to change your political party or register to vote for this election. The town clerk’s office will be open for business on this date from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Absentee ballot applications will be available in the town clerk’s office until Monday, November 1, at noon.

The Sterling Cultural Council has announced that the deadline for grant applications is October 15. Remember that all projects need to have a local sponsor and venue to be considered. In addition, the Sterling Cultural Council needs new members. If you would like to help bring programs and events to Sterling, please contact Susan Farr at sudofarr@ yahoo.com or call 978-422-6971 for more information.

Get ready for the November election

The state Election will be held on Tuesday, November 2. The polls will be open at the Houghton School

Letters to the Editor We love to hear from you! Letters should be no more than 350 words and they need to be signed.

Share Your News We welcome personal announcements such as births, anniversaries, engagements, weddings, graduations, achievements, etc. Send e-mail to mail@ sterlingmeetinghousenews.com, mail to Sterling Meetinghouse News, 10 Loring Way, Sterling, MA 01564, or a fax to 978-422-9824. Please include your name, address, and phone number.

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Spaces available for Holiday Fair

The Houghton Elementary PTO in Sterling will host its second annual Holiday Fair on Wednesday, November 17, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium. If you are interested in reserving a space to sell new or handmade holiday gift items, please e-mail HoughtonPTO@ hotmail.com immediately for more information. Limited spaces are available, so act now to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity. Your $35 space rental fee will be donated directly to benefit the children of Houghton Elementary School.

Job opportunity group at First Church

JOG (job opportunity group) is a group of job seekers and people in career transitions that meets each week at the First Church in Sterling to share experiences, networks, and tools that can be used during a job search or while charting a career map. Tools such as resume building, interview preparation, personal elevator speech scripting, and developing a personal portfolio will be shared, as well as good old-fashioned encouragement. Finding a job is a job. If you are interested, contact the church office at 978422-6657, or Jed Lindholm at [email protected].

Clinton Hospital hosts free diabetes education program

Clinton Hospital is offering a free educational series for individuals and families dealing with diabetes. This four-session Journey for Control workshop, led by a diabetes expert, teaches participants how to manage diabetes through lifestyle and diet changes, the importance of regular blood glucose monitoring, how to recognize symptoms of low blood sugar, and ways to avoid dangerous complications. Workshops will be held Tuesdays, October 19 and 26 and November 2, and Wednesday, November 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. in conference rooms A and B at Clinton Hospital, 201 Highland St., Clinton. Space is limited. To register, call Barbara McCarter at 978-368-3711.

Rain barrels available at DPW

The Sterling DPW, located on Route 12, has 55-gallon rain barrels available for residents to purchase. The cost is $65.

Advertise in Sterling Meetinghouse News For information call Carol Ballard at 978-733-1264

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Memorial service at First Church for Charlie Allen

In memoriam Nancy M. Perry

A memorial service will be held for Charlie Allen on Sunday, October 17, at 2 p.m. at the First Church in Sterling. He passed away in early August. Members of the community are invited to attend the service. Allen was a farmer who lived in Sterling for 89 of his 94 years. He donated 20 acres of land to the Sterling Land Trust, and sold 95 acres to the state under the Massachusetts Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program, in order to preserve the land for future generations.

Nancy Perry of Sterling passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 18, surrounded by family and dear friends. Calling hours were held at Miles Funeral Home in Sterling on September 22. Perry lived in Sterling for 40 of her 67 years, and was well known for her involvement in town politics. Though she grew up in Shrewsbury, Nancy was devoted to the town Sterling. She served on the Personnel Board for many

years, and was elected last May to serve on the Board of Assessors. Regular attendees of town meetings will remember Nancy’s contributions to the discussions of the articles. She has also been a regular commentator at selectmen’s meetings for the past several years. Nancy worked for several Sterling businesses, including Village Transportation and Sons of Kristoff, and she retired from working for the town of Sterling in 2001. She is survived by her three children, David E. Perry and his wife Renee, Kandi Perry Elie and her husband James, and Staci (Perry) Johnson and her husband Robert, as well as her seven beloved grandchildren and her loyal companions, Sarge, Angel, and Chief.

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Town NEWS

MOU would detail town common use, maintenance

Town common

continued from page 1 the memorandum of understanding would provide an agreement regarding the use and maintenance of the common, regardless of who owns it. The situation’s gravity is such that the Unitarian Society’s elected officials feel that it’s necessary to have a discussion with members about their opinion on whether to go forward with the memorandum of understanding, Gaw said. Input from the church’s attorney will also be considered. Selectman Russ Philpot was concerned that the memorandum essentially conveys land from the town to the church, and asked if selectmen have the authority to do that. Selectman Paul Sushchyk said the memorandum does not constitute a conveyance. “You can’t convey what you don’t own,” he said. There is no acknowledgement in the memorandum that the town or the church owns the land, he added. Sushchyk suggested waiting for a response from the First Church before working on any more details. “I think we have to arrive to the point that the Unitarian Society wants to enact a memorandum of understanding, Sushchyk said, and if so, what terms and conditions are important to the Unitarian Society to have in the memorandum of understanding.” The church, he added, might not want language proposed by the town that says the title is undetermined. “They might want something definite saying that they own... the common.” Town Administrator Terri Ackerman said she has made town counsel aware of legal questions regarding the memorandum, including whether the memorandum can be signed by selectmen or will need to be voted on at a town meeting, liability and insurance issues, and the enforcement mechanism. Policy issues, such as maintenance versus improvements, can be worked out between selectmen and the church, Ackerman said. “I’d like to bring the matter to a conclusion as quickly as we can,” Sushchyk said. He noted that the ownership question has stirred up a controversy in town. Selectman Richard Sheppard agreed, saying that it has the potential to disenfranchise a whole group of people. For more information about the memorandum of understanding, see page 8 of the September 18 issue of the Sterling Meetinghouse News at www.sterlingmeetinghousenews.com.

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Town NEWS

Selectmen’s meeting update by Susan Stau d a h e r Goals set for coming year Selectmen reviewed past goals and set priorities for the coming year at their September 15 and 29 meetings. Last year’s goals included finding a new space for a senior center/ community center, revitalizing the town common, improving communication, building a vault for record storage, and reviewing the structure of town government through a Government Study Committee. Selectman Richard Sheppard noted that milestones have been reached toward the five goals that were set last year, but none have been completed. He suggested that they could focus on one or two goals. Regarding the senior center, he said surveys have been done, and they have looked at proper-

ties. He added that property and land values have gone down, and a proposal to buy a property or some land for a senior center could be brought to a town meeting. “We looked at a number of places in town,” Sheppard said on September 29, “and we need to make a decision and move on it.” There was strong disagreement last year between the members of the Council on Aging and the people who did an analysis of the use survey, Selectman Russ Philpot said. He recalled a list of rooms desired for a senior center that added up to about 7,000 square feet. Philpot said he wants to be confident the space would be used, that it’s important to understand the difference between needs and wants, and that the debate about the size should be resolved this year.

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Sheppard said it’s hard to predict the size that will be needed. The current space is limited, he added, and more people would use a larger space. If a property is available at a bargain price, he feels the town should look into it. The Council on Aging, which selectmen charged with finding a location that could be leased for a senior center, is at an impasse, Sheppard said. Selectman Paul Sushchyk suggested that selectmen should meet with the Council on Aging to determine the amount of space needed. Town Administrator Terri Ackerman suggested on September 15 that a comprehensive space needs analysis could be a tool for reaching some of the goals, and offered to coordinate it. A town-wide space needs plan could include specifications for a

Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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Town NEWS senior center, the 1835 Town Hall, the Butterick Municipal Building, and a vault, she said. Philpot suggested looking at how other towns utilize space. “I think we’re wasting a lot of space in our physical structures,” he said. The town needs to understand what it has, compared to what it needs. There would be political issues if people or commit-

For more stories on the September 29 selectmen’s meeting, visit www.sterlingmeetinghousenews.com. tees need to move their office, Ackerman noted. The redesign of the Butterick Building should be done with the goal of providing service to the taxpayers, Philpot replied. More office and meeting space could be provided if an elevator is built at the 1835 Town Hall to access the second floor, Sheppard said. If the town had a new senior center, he added, that would free up space in the basement of the Butterick Building. Toward the end of the discussion on September 15, Philpot said that constructing a vault to store town records should be a priority. Sheppard is interested in resolving the search for a senior center site and building an elevator for the 1835 Town Hall. Sushchyk agreed that the vault and the 1835 Town Hall should be priorities, and he would like to see a comprehensive analysis of the town’s space needs with a utilization study of the offices in the Butterick Building. On September 29, selectmen voted to make completing the vault their first priority. The senior center is second on the list, and an elevator for the 1835 Town Hall is third. Fox appointed to Capital Fund Committee In a joint decision on September 29, selectmen, Town Moderator Peter Monaghan, and the Finance Committee appointed Patrick Fox to the Capital Fund Committee to fill the remaining year of a three-year position that was vacated by Scott Moroney. Selectmen were unanimous in their vote. Finance Committee Chairman Larry Pape reported that the Finance Committee had voted unanimously in support of appointing Fox. Monaghan was not able to attend the meeting, but had indicated he was in favor by e-mail. Vacancies on Board of Assessors and Municipal Light Board need to be filled Town Administrator Terri Ackerman noted on September 29 that there are vacancies on the Board of Assessors and the Municipal Light Board. Arthur Coughlin has submitted his resignation from the Light Board, effective October 1.

Moment of silence for Nancy Perry A moment of silence was held at the September 29 selectmen’s meeting in memory of Nancy Perry, who passed away on September 18. She was a member of the Board of Assessors, a past member of the Municipal Light Board and the Personnel Board, and a former employee of the town of Sterling. Selectman Richard Sheppard noted that she was “involved in town politics in a very big way.” “She was a good person with a good heart and a very nice smile,” Selectman Paul Sushchyk said.

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Business NEWS

Allatar has a new home on Main Street

by Susan Har ra gi n Allatar Software and Hardware Solutions has a new home at 44 Main St. in Sterling. The business, which helps small businesses with their computer and networking needs, now shares the building with Tuttle & Traina Insurance Agency. “It was sort of a transition,” said Larry Altobelli, owner of Allatar since 2002. “We moved in at the end of last year, but as we were moving from a larger space into a smaller space there was a lot of ‘going through things.’ We recycled about 2,000 pounds of electrical equipment as part of the move.” Altobelli, a resident of Holden, made the move to have better business visibility and easier access than the previous second floor location at 153 Clinton Rd. provided. At the Main Street location, Allatar serves customers from across Worcester County, including lawyers, accountants, manufacturing companies, golf courses, and more. The company also provides services to not-for-profit organizations, including helping them get through the process of obtaining discount-priced professional software and hardware. Altobelli has worked in the computer industry for 30 years and enjoys his work. “I keep learning all the time,” he said. “There are always new ideas out there. I love my customers – I’ve met some great people over the years. Ninety-nine percent of my business is referrals. It is a tough time to be in business. You have to strive to make the customer happy, but that is what makes the difference.” Allatar Software and Hardware Solutions staff includes a part-time technical associate and a part-time bookkeeper. The office is open by appointment. To contact Allatar, call 508-335-3677 or visit www.allatar.com.

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Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

Davis farm touted as Century Farm Century Farms were celebrated during The Big E on Grange Day, September 26, at the New England Grange Building in West Springfield. Recipients of this designation received a sign identifying them as a Century Farm, owned by the same family for over 100 years. With great pride, the 164-year-old Davis Family Farm has been in Sterling since 1846. Seven generations ago, George Davis, a farmer from Westford, Mass., moved to Redstone Hill Road in Sterling. Since then, the operations of the Davis family have included a dairy business with home delivery service, a roadside fruit stand, vegetable gardens, forage crop fields, a cider mill, timberlands, lumber mills, and even mining operations. In addition, Jonathan Davis was not only the founding president of Agway, but also board chairman of the Federal Farm Credit Banking System. In 1996, John, Larry, and Doug Davis opened Davis Farmland, a children’s discovery farm, featuring endangered farm animals. The Davises opened an award-winning, adventure cornfield maze in 1998, touted by renowned maze designer Adrian Fisher as “the world’s most complex, three-dimensional maze network.” In 2000, Davis Farmland teamed up with the San Diego Zoo to create the world’s first “frozen zoo” for endangered farm animals, which preserves their DNA.

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Dave Chandler and Pam O’Coin (left) of Meadowbrook Orchards serve their apple-squash soup and delicious desserts.

Sterling vendors take culinary prizes The Wachusett Chamber of Commerce sponsored the 13th annual Taste of Wachusett on Wednesday, September 22, at Wachusett Mountain. Approximately 1,300 people sampled fine fare from 45 culinary vendors. First through third place awards were earned in five categories, based on the number of votes from participants. Sterling establishments that placed are Meadowbrook Orchards, third place for best chowder/soup and second place for best dessert; Sterling National Country Club, second place for best chowder/ soup; and Chocksett Inn for best entree.

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Town Wide Yard Sale

The Sterling town common overflowed on September 18 with lots of items for sale, and people hoping to find a bargain.

PHOTOS by Susan Staudaher

Lauren Plonski, 7, of Northborough, admired a parrot at the Town Wide Yard Sale. She was accompanied by her dad, Graham Plonski. Shoppers searched through collections of housewares, books, toys, and more at the Town Wide Yard Sale.

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•                



       



         



       



     

           12

    

Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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Troop 1 raised funds for First Church steeple

by Susan Stau d a h e r n September 23, members of Boy Scout Troop 1 of Sterling presented Rev. Jonathan Wright-Gray, senior pastor of the First Church in Sterling, and Vickie Gaw, moderator of the First Congregational Unitarian Society, with $2,775 that was raised through Troop 1’s Steeple People fundraising effort. The presentation was held at Sholan Park, during the opening ceremonies for the troop’s annual cookout at the town beach. After it was determined in 2009 that structural repairs were needed for the First Scoutmaster John Daigle (right) presents a check to Rev. Jonathan Church steeple, the church launched a capiWright-Gray and Vickie Gaw. tal campaign to raise funds. Troop 1 adult member Tom Bodine came up with the idea for the Steeple People but“We Are Steeple People” buttons, and also made the ton project, which began last spring. The First Church buttons available at various locations in town. All the sponsors Troop 1, and hosts the weekly meetings. proceeds were donated to the church. “Troop 1 undertook the project to help the church Three Boy Scouts were recognized for outstanding with their capital campaign,” said Troop 1 Committee effort in the fundraising campaign. Chris Giard, 14, and Chairman Todd Chapman. “We used the steeple on our Alex Cotter, 13, collected the highest dollar amounts, buttons because it is the most prominent item in need and Jackson Simmons, 11, sold the highest number of of repair at the church, and perhaps the most promibuttons. nent feature around the town common.” Charlie Kretz, a Troop 1 adult leader and a member More than two dozen Scouts and numerous adults of the First Church, said the repairs to the steeple are spent scores of hours planning and implementing the about 80 percent complete. The main structural work project. has been done, but some exterior work remains, such Scouts went door-to-door asking for donations for as repairs to the siding.

PHOTO by Susan Staudaher

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Apple orchard provides opportunity for organic farming Organic apples

continued from page 1 planted in the late 1970s by Roland Moran as Old Oak Apple Farm. The property is part of a larger parcel of land purchased by the Commonwealth for watershed protection purposes in 2004. Before the arrival of Harragian in the fall of 2008, the trees had not been tended for 10 years and were overgrown and covered with invasive vines. “It is so much work,” said Harragian, who used paid and volunteer labor to restore the orchard to production. With 550 trees on three acres, they’re keeping busy. Even the sisters’ 88-year-old mom, Eileen Harragin, has helped by tending fires and hauling brush. “I have a lot of help. It’s a family and friend affair,” Cathy said, laughing.

Harragian’s organic journey started with her lawn care company, Organic Garden Design. “I got certified, then more and more I started eating a little bit of organic food,” she said, “then I started to grow organic plants, then this opportunity came up with the [apple] trees.” What does it mean to be USDA certified organic? At the basic level, it means that no inputs of standard chemicals have been used for three years, and that inspections are performed. The inspectors “want to know everything: all the materials you used, right down to what kind of compost,” Harragian said. “There are a lot of restrictions… trees are still sprayed, but with organically approved material.” She added that she was surprised at how rigorous the inspections are. The farm is inspected every year to maintain

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certification. Growing organic produce reflects Harragian’s outlook on life. “It’s just to support the whole agricultural and local food movement,” and to provide good food for people.” As a landscaper, she was aware of the many chemicals used on lawns. “People say, ‘well, I feed my dog organic food,’ but they don’t relate it to their lawn, and people are tracking [the chemicals] in the house,” Harragian said. There are also chemicals on people’s food, “more than they need.” Organic isn’t the easiest way to go. Agricultural specialist Guy Ames examined the difficulties of growing organic apples in the eastern part of the United States, versus the western part, in an article for the July 2001 issue of “Considerations of Organic Apple Growing.” He wrote that in the eastern part of the country,

Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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“It’s not the trees, per se, that are the problem; it’s the climate that supports the trees. The higher humidity and rainfall directly foster disease and weed problems, and the abundance of biomass supports greater insect and mite populations.” Those considerations make it a challenge to grow any apples in New England. Growing them organically makes it even harder. Harragian calls her apple farm more of an obsession than a business. “It really is a big challenge, a lot bigger program than I imagined, but I love growing organic food,” she said. As one of four certified organic apple producers in Massachusetts certified through Bay State Organics, Harragian is an innovator, and she sees more and more farms going this way in the future as states are beginning to ban chemicals in orchards.

Bird of the Hand Farm is not a pick-your-own apple orchard, as it was under the prior management – the sisters sell to what Harragian calls the “fresh market.” The market for certified organic apples includes restaurants, grocery stores, farmers’ markets, co-ops, and anyone interested in local food markets, she said. They sell over 15 heirloom varieties, the majority being McIntosh, Cortland, and Delicious apples. Apples can be purchased from Cathy Harragian by calling her at 978-422-6127, or by e-mailing her at birdofthehandfarm@ gmail.com. She will also have second quality apples available for purchase. Since the process of growing organic apples is very labor intensive, she would like to warn customers that her apples cost more than those found at a grocery store.

Bring awareness to your eating habits

Amy Aubertin of Ashby, a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist, is offering a five-session program in Sterling titled Mindful Eating. The classes will incorporate stress reduction tools and mindfulness meditation, and will help participants connect to their own sense of what and how much to eat. Each class will include an eating exercise. Topics include reducing stress-related eating, targeting eating struggles, savoring food, and developing a nondiet approach. The classes will be held on Wednesdays, October 20 through November 17, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Sterling Healing Arts, 2 Beverly Drive (off of Route 12), Sterling. The fee of $120 includes handouts and a CD. To register or for more information, contact Amy Aubertin at 781-674-1189 ext. 3 or [email protected].

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Library NEWS

Friends of the Library program offers coupons and discounts The Friends of the Conant Public Library is delighted to announce the new Friends of the Library membership program. Members will receive valuable discounts and coupons to local Sterling businesses, including Appletown Market, Barbers Crossing, Belle Wood Stables of Holden, Clearview Farm, Davis Farmland and Mega Maze, Green Star Landscape Service, Lilacs, Maki Building Center, Pineo Family Farm, Rota Spring Farm, Stillwater Ice Cream, Twin Oaks Restaurant, and Village Pizza. “Being a member of the Friends has always been a great investment in literacy, culture, and our community, but now it is also an investment that pays for itself,” says Ellen Zanino, president of the Friends. When joining or renewing membership for 2010-2011, members will receive coupons, along with a membership card to present for discounts at participating businesses. The membership fee of $15 for a basic level membership, plus any additional donation to the Friends, a 501(c)(3) organization, is tax-deductible. One hundred percent of Friends membership revenue goes to support library programs that exceed the basic operating budget provided by the town, such as children’s literacy programs and passes to local cultural attractions. Children’s summer reading programs have been shown in numerous studies, including a 2010 study by Dominican University, to be very effective at closing the gap on reading achievement. “We are very grateful to these businesses for their support for the library, and we look forward to the program being a win-win-win for the library, the businesses, and our community,” says Pat Campbell, library director. To join the Friends, stop by the library or visit www.sterlinglibrary.org/conant/friends.asp to print a membership form. Online payment is now available through PayPal. You may also “friend” the Friends of the

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Conant Library on Facebook to receive updates on all library programs and events. Additional businesses are welcome to join the discount program by contacting Friends President Ellen Zanino at [email protected].

Meet-and-greet on October 16

There will be a meet-and-greet coffee in the Baker Room at the Conant Public Library on Saturday, October 16, at 10 a.m. All who are interested in learning more about the Friends are welcome to attend this free event. Refreshments will be generously provided by Gerardo’s Bakery III of Sterling.

Book club at the library

The book club at the Conant Public Library meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. October’s selection is “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley. The list of titles for each month is posted on the library website, www.sterlinglibrary.org.

Girl Scout registration forms available

For those who have not yet registered their daughters for Girl Scouts, and would like to do so, registration forms will be available on October 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 20 Redstone Place in Sterling. For more information or if you need directions, call 978-422-7480. Please make sure you bring the $12 registration fee with you on this night. If you cannot attend on October 12, please send an e-mail to the registrar, Shannon Payette, at [email protected], or call 508-479-0485.

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Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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Things to do

Fundraiser walk/run will benefit Maypother family by Dilia M ar re ro fundraising event will be held for Firefighter Rick Maypother on Saturday, October 9, the same day as the Public Safety Open House at the Sterling Fire Station, located at 5 Main St. A Fun Walk will begin at 9 a.m. Families and children are invited to walk a mile along the Rail Trail. Twister, the Worcester Tornadoes’ mascot, and Fins, the Worcester Sharks’ mascot, will attend from 8:15 to 10 a.m., and will lead the Fun Walk! A $5 entrance fee for participants will be required at check-in. The fee includes a wrist band for each participant. Beginning at 10 a.m., there will be a 5K Run that will proceed from the bottom of Meetinghouse Hill Road to Princeton Road (Route 62), then turn left onto Jewett Road, left onto Greenland Road, and left onto Worcester Road (Route 12) toward Sterling center. Rich Gedman, Worcester Tornadoes manager, will be volunteering and coordinating the run. The preregis-

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tration entrance fee for runners is $20, or register at the event for $25. Registration includes a Give, Love, Fight T-shirt. The check-in for the Fun Walk and the 5K Run starts at 8 a.m. at the Fire Station. For more information or to register, visit www.givelovefight.org or send an e-mail to Mike and Kim Cravedi at [email protected]. In the spring of 2010, Maypother was diagnosed with cancer. He has been an active member in the community, volunteering as a coach and frequently visiting and speaking at schools during Fire Safety Week. Efforts have been led by many in the community to assist the family through fundraising events for the Maypother Family Support Fund. The Sterling Little League sponsored the Dunk Tank event at the Sterling Fair, and the Black Sheep Tavern sponsored an event on September 19. After the Public Safety event, the next fundraiser

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Public Safety Open House at Fire Station

Sterling’s annual Public Safety Open House will be held on Saturday, October 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fire Station at 5 Main St. Free food and beverages will be provided. Representatives from the Fire Department, Police Department, and DPW will participate. The event will feature fire apparatus displays, tours of the Student Awareness of Fire Education (S.A.F.E.) Fire Safety House, and special appearances by Smokey the Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog. Please stop by and pay a visit to the men and women who work so hard to keep Sterling safe!

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Sterling Garden Club begins a new season

by Susan Har ra gi n he Sterling Garden Club kicked off their 76th year on Thursday, September 16, with a meeting at the Stillwater Farm Interpretive Site on Route 140. At picnic tables under blue skies, President Sheila Battles opened the morning meeting by welcoming old and new members, plus a few guests. She also outlined the many events coming up throughout the year. For the 2010/2011 year, the club will host speakers who will share their knowledge of making herb butters, growing roses, and more. These educational events Members of the Sterling Garden Club chat outside Stillwater Farm before their will be in addition to the regular first meeting of the season. fundraising events: the holiday well as the challenges of keeping the flower displays greens sale and the annual spring plant sale. looking fresh with the earlier Thursday drop-off day. Jane Krantz, chair of the Garden Club’s committee for Carol Stewart-Grinkis, chair of the Civic Committee, the Sterling Fair, reviewed the successes of the fair as

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Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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updated members about efforts to dress up the downtown, and acknowledged members who have worked to maintain various community beds. The club is contemplating a civic beautification project on the Rail Trail, as well as additional projects at Stillwater farm. Garden Club applies for grant As part of Thursday’s program, the club listened to Jim Lafley, education program coordinator for the Department of Conservation and Recreation, speak about the history of Stillwater Farm and its relationship to the Boston water supply. Lafley said that the garden in front of the entrance to the farmhouse was installed in 2006 as an Eagle Scout project. Since then, the bed maintenance has been neglected. This summer, the Garden Club relocated plants that had grown too large for the space and cleared out invading weeds. Space is now open for additional plantings and a historically correct “kitchen garden” of herbs that the club hopes to plant in the spring. “That is going to be a nice addition,” Lafley said. In July, the Garden Club applied to the Massachusetts Federation of Garden Clubs for a $2,000 grant to fund garden improvements at the Stillwater Farm site. Member Carol Stewart-Grinkis said that the club hopes to win the grant, which will be awarded in October, because the club’s proposal includes so many collaborative aspects with other groups like the Commonwealth, the Boy Scouts, and the town itself. Stewart-Grinkis said that the club had to complete a great deal of work before applying for the grant. “We had to compile a history of the site, its importance to the community, the site’s status now, what our plan for the site is, to what purpose, a listing of plants, budgets, and so on.” The club wants the project to be educational, so members plan to label all the plants. For more information about the Garden Club, please call Sheila Battles, president, at 978-422-8527.

Moose spotted in Sterling continued from page 1

majority of them found in northern Worcester County.” Moose home ranges vary from 5 to 50 square miles, depending on the season, according to MassWildlife. An adult female moose can weigh from 500 to 700 pounds, and a male moose will weigh anywhere from 600 to 1,000 pounds. Their diet includes tender leaves, twigs, tree bark, aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation, grasses, lichens, mosses, mushrooms, and herbaceous plants. Moose are most active between dawn and dusk.

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19

Recreation NEWS

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Sterling Recreation offers sports, exercise, trips, and more

It’s time to register for the sports programs, exercise classes, and fun trips the Sterling Recreation Department has planned for the fall and winter. A few of the highlights are listed below. Tickets are on sale for the Boston Celtics vs. the Charlotte Bobcats at the TD Garden on Friday, January 14, at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $50. Tickets are limited, so order early. Winter Youth Basketball will be starting in midNovember for students in grades 1 to 5. Coaches are needed to make this fun program a success. The second session of classes for Zumba, Belly Blaster Flat Abs, Kickboxing, and Yoga for all ages starts the week of October 25. A one-hour class of Zumba and Yoga for youths in grades 2 to 6 will begin October 4. Cooking classes for adults are being offered in November and December – make soups, stews, holiday appetizers, and hors d’oeuvres. A holiday gift or candy making class for students in grades 5 to 8 will surely enhance their creativity. A variety of winter programs will keep you active, including ice skating lessons at Bufone Arena in Worcester, the Monday or Saturday ski/snowboard program at Wachusett Mountain, snowshoeing, and geocaching. For more information call 978-422-3041, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.sterlingma.gov and click on Departments, then Recreation Department. All programs will be listed on the website. Registration forms will be available on the website, at the Conant Public Library, and at the Recreation Department office in room 2 at the 1835 Town Hall, 31 Main St., Sterling center.

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Sterling participates in the Leominster Babe Ruth League. Sterling Babe Ruth tryouts for 2011 will be held at the Leominster Babe Ruth lower field on October 9 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and on October 10 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Players must try out in order to make a team. Participation is needed at only one of the tryouts. A signed registration form and a $100 deposit for all players is due on October 9 and October 10. Registration forms will be available at the tryouts. Forms are also available online at www.leominsterbaberuth.org. For additional information contact Jeff Kerrigan at 978-368-8280 or [email protected].

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Recreation/Senior Center NEWS

Y.A.H.O.O. fall registration

Fall registration for the Sterling Y.A.H.O.O. (Young Adults Helping Out Others) program has begun. Members of Y.A.H.O.O. volunteer to help seniors with yard work in the spring and fall. Students in grades 7 through 12 who are interested in joining or rejoining Y.A.H.O.O., as well as parents, can get a registration form from www.sterlingyahoo.org, the Conant Public Library, or the Recreation Department. The registration deadline for students and parents is October 16. For more information call Jeanne Dietel at 978-422-6422.

Senior Center happenings

The Sterling Senior Center is located in the Butterick Municipal Building on Park Street. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Friday. For more information call 978-4223032. An answering machine is available 24 hours a day. Chair Yoga and Gentle Relaxation – Michelle Jones from Corcoran House will offer this program on Mon., Oct. 4, from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. Desserts will be provided. Blood pressure clinic – Tues., Oct. 5, at noon. Columbus Day – The Senior Center will be closed on Mon., Oct. 11. Apple Pie Social – Sharon Nolli, outreach representa-

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tive for Fallon Community Health Plan, will offer this program on Mon., Oct. 18, at 12:15 p.m. Health insurance counseling – On Thurs., Oct. 21, a SHINE (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) counselor will be available to assist with questions about health insurance. Appointments are required – call the Senior Center at 978-422-3032. Elder Keep Well Clinic – On Thurs., Oct. 21, from noon to 2 p.m., meet with a nurse to discuss health issues. USDA food distribution – October’s distribution for eligible residents will be on Tues., Oct. 26, at noon. Book Club – On Thurs., Oct. 28, at 12:30 p.m., the club will discuss “Dewey: The Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World” by Vicki Myron. Halloween Party – On Fri., Oct. 29, at 10 a.m., enjoy Halloween music and goodies. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume. Come for the party and stay for lunch. Introduction to the Internet – Here’s an opportunity to discover amazing resources at your fingertips by using the Internet. Find health and medical information, check out your ancestry, look up free craft patterns, or view videos on any topic imaginable! No experience necessary. Larry, your peer coach, will guide you through the tutorial, “Generations on Line.” Try it once and you’ll be amazed at what you can do in just one session, even if you have never used a computer before. Call 978-4223032 to schedule your individualized session. Ongoing events – Coffee hour Mondays at 9 a.m., art class Mondays at 10 a.m., senior fitness Mondays at 10 a.m., game day Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m., yoga gentle stretches ($3 per class) for strength and flexibility Thursdays at 9 a.m., and line dancing Thursdays at 10 a.m. Lunch at the Senior Center – Lunch is served daily for anyone over 60. Call 978-422-8022 at least 24 hours in advance for a reservation. Home-delivered meals are also available daily. A $2 donation is suggested.

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American Legion to hold meeting

There will be a regular meeting of the Hiram O. Taylor Post 189 of the American Legion on Monday, October 4, at 7:30 p.m. in the post hall on School Street in Sterling.

Learn to finish a hooked rug at ATHA meeting

The Worcester chapter of the Association of Traditional Hooking Artists (ATHA) will meet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 8, at the Eight Point Sportsmen’s Club. Beverly Mulcahy, a certified McGown instructor, will demonstrate how to appropriately finish a hooked rug. Anyone interested in any of the fiber arts is welcome to join in. The program is free. For more information please call Carol Hoyle Ballard, president, at 978733-1264.

Women’s Club plans reunion night

The Sterling Women’s Club will hold its October meeting on Thursday, October 14, at 7 p.m. at the 1835 Town Hall in Sterling. It will be a social night with a variety of games, as well as a reunion night. All former members of the Sterling Women’s Club are invited to attend. For more information visit the website at www.sterlingwomensclub .com, send an e-mail to swc01564@ gmail.com, or contact Brenda Ware by telephone at 978-464-5306.

First Church Harvest Craft Fair in October

On Saturday, October 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the First Church in Sterling will host the annual Harvest Craft Fair/Church Fair. The festivities will include over 20 professional crafters, a Country Store, baked

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Turkey Supper at First Church in Sterling

All are welcome to come to the First Church in Sterling for the annual Turkey Supper on Saturday, October 23, at 6 p.m. It will include turkey, stuffing, and all the fixin’s with apple crisp for dessert! Dine in at the church hall, or pick up a take-out order. The cost is $10 for adults and $6 for children 12 and

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Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010

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PIECES... under. There is a $30 maximum per family. Tickets will be available at the Harvest Craft Fair on Saturday, October 16; after worship service on Sundays; or by calling the First Church at 978-422-6657.

Spooky Walk and Halloween Party returns

Village Green Preschool is hosting a (not so) Spooky Walk and Halloween Party on Monday, October 25, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Come in costume and bring a bag for trick-or-treating along Main Street! The parade will begin promptly at 5 p.m. at the gazebo behind the Sterling Fire Station. Participants will parade as

a group down Main Street to the First Church for a party. There will be pizza, snacks, baked goods, games, and more. The fee for the party will be $5 per person. Children 1 year old and younger will be admitted free. There is a limited number of tickets, and they sold out last year, so please plan accordingly. Tickets are on sale at Woody’s Barber Shop, Appletown Market, and the Village Green Preschool office. Parents are required to stay for the entire event.

Ham and Bean Supper at First Church

The Hiram O. Taylor Post 189 of the American Legion will have a Ham and Bean Supper on Saturday, November 6, at 5:30 p.m. at the First Church Parish Hall in Sterling. Take-out will be available. Donation is $10. For tickets contact Bruce Daigneau at 508-852-8186, Bob

Temple at 978-422-8006, or Don Temple at 508-829-2048.

Veterans Day Parade

The Hiram O. Taylor Post 189 of the American Legion in Sterling will be hosting a parade and speaking program on Sunday, November 7, at 1 p.m. The parade will start at the Avenue of Flags display at Hillside Cemetery on Route 62 with a brief program, and then march to the Memorial Area on Cross Street for the main speaking program. Anyone who would like to participate is welcome, and should meet at the Legion Post on School Street by 12:30 p.m. A bus will run from the Legion hall at about noon. The Avenue of Flags will fly, weather permitting. If the weather is bad, the program will be held in the First Church hall. Anyone who would like to help put up the flags should be at Hillside Cemetery at 8 a.m.

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Sterling Meetinghouse News • October 2, 2010