Professional Documents
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TAKE ME HOME
130th Edition
Customer Appreciation
The Otis Gazette would like to say Thank You to our advertisers. Each month we will choose randomly one advertiser to receive a $25 Gift Card.
This months recipient is:
Otis Gazette
February 2013.
Happy Valentines Day! As I write this on January 24th, it is 8 degrees here in Otis this morning. We decided you should just be able to stay home and be warm. But, I guess it really isnt about what we decide. So off we go to the bus stop as they did not cancel school for the cold. Later today and this week it should be back in the 20s and 30s and we will be back on the slopes not even another thought about this cold morning. Funny how that works.
We hope you enjoy this issue of the Otis Gazette as much as we enjoy preparing it for you. Feel free to contact us and contribute your photos and stories to:
Well done
is better than well said."
--Benjamin Franklin
On the Cover
The cover photo on this issue is the view from the Town Beach in Otis, MA. One of the most beautiful places in New England. We encourage all of you to send in your photos for publication consideration.
673 Route 203 Spencertown, NY 12165 Phone (518) 392.3883 Fax (518) 392.3887 www.MadsenOverheadDoors.com
2 ~~ February, 2013 ~ Otis Gazette ~ www.OtisGazette.com 130th Edition
The Veterans of AMVETS Post 77 wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire community for supporting the 2012 Toys-for-Tots Program. Local businesses throughout Otis provided drop off space for gifts. Members of Post 77 (aka Santas Forward Operators) shopped in conjunction with the donations to ensure all the kids had that special day. Your generous donations gave the children (infants to 16 year olds) of Southern Berkshire County Hilltowns a very Merry Christmas. As a reminder, we are already collecting to make 2013 even better! Another very proud and special thank you goes out to our own Farmington River Regional School District school children who made this years event even better. Their bighearted donations of hats and gloves to the Kids Helping Kids program really added that special touch to the season. Please keep your eyes open for upcoming events sponsored by the AMVETS Post 77. Veterans. . . we are always looking for new members; young and old! AMVETS Post 77, P.O. Box 587, Otis MA 01253 AMVETSPost77@outlook.com.
4-H Club in Otis All Kids from surrounding towns welcome too!
Informational and sign-up meeting is at Otis Town Hall on Thursday, February 12th from 6pm to 7:30pm Come find out what were all about, for kids ages 5 to 18. Tonia Carrington Group Leader 413-329-9658
130th Edition
Boy Scouts has something challenging and fun for all ages.
Loading by appointment only. Happy Valentines Day! QUARRY 413-329-8083 HOME OFFICE 413-269-4313 TONLINOANDSONS@GMAIL.COM
Ebwf!Dpolmjo!Dbswjoh! Ebwf!Dpolmjo!Dbswjoh! Dibjotbx!Dbswfe!Hbsefo!Bsut! 524.37:.1137! 524.37:.1137!
130th Edition
Otis Gazette
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Connecticut
Barkhamsted American Legion Campground* Log House Restaurant Monroe Muffler & Brake Skiltons Antique & Collectibles Super Stop-N-Shop White Pines Campground* Burrville Burrville Pizza & Deli Elaines Pizza Winns Deli Still River Package Store Canaan Canaan Auto Town Line Pizza New Hartford Collinsville Antiques of New Hartford Foothills Delery & Bakery Rocky River Sweets* New Hartford Patco/Mobil Tonios Pizzeria Up Country Sport Fishing Stop & Save Citgo Riverton Riverton General Store Torrington Apple House Quick Mart / Citgo Charlotte Hungerford Hospital The CorkFine Wine & Beverage The Hair Dr. Panera Bread Ruwet & Sibley Shell (lower East Main) Shell (upper East Main) Sunoco Super Stop-N-Shop Torrington Library Twin Colony Diner Winsted Angels Dry Cleaning Billy Rays Caf China Star
~~ ~~~ ~~ Advertisers should check advertisements the first day. Otis Gazette shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad, or for any errors in publication except to the extent of the cost of the ad for the first months insertion. Adjustment for errors is limited to the cost of that portion of the ad wherein the error occurred. Our usual publication date is within the first week of each month. To ensure placement, ad copy must be submitted by the 15th of the month preceding insertion. All copy received after the 15th will be held and considered for the following months issue.
130th Edition
Serving the Berkshires & VT since 1977 802-442-3939 413-243-1691 cleansweepcs@gmail.com Emergencies 413-717-2887
Now Offering
860-806-2879
130th Edition Wishing All A Happy Valentines Day www.OtisGazette.com ~ Otis Gazette ~ February, 2013 ~~ 7
Metal
Roofing Supply
Local Distributor & Sales Outlasts Shingles Easier to Install Cheaper than Shingles Eliminate Ice & Snow Job Site Estimates & Deliveries Top Quality Best Prices in Area Direct From Factory
SWELLS
CAR WASH
Automatic MonFri 7:30a-7p
Self Serve
Wash &Vacuum
Sat-8a-6p Sun-8a-4p
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.com
Dont let Otis get Left Out of high speed internet! Go to www.wiredwest.net to fill out your support card.
Help Otis Get Wired with Fiber Optic High Speed Internet
8 ~~ February, 2013 ~ Otis Gazette ~ www.OtisGazette.com 130th Edition
KATIE MCTEIGUE
413.281.4029
www.OtisGazette.com
You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.
GARY J PEASE
WWW.HOUSEHOLDEXECUTIVE.COM
G. J. PEASE
LAND CLEARING & LOGGING
BUILDING LOTS ~ ROADS ~ SUBDIVISIONS FULLY INSURED
RT 57 SANDISFIELD, MA 01255 (413) 258-4894
So, Welcome
130th Edition
INC
L&M Auto
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2005 Chevy Tahoe Z71 loaded, very clean, very good condition, $12,999 2004 GMC Sierra Pickup 4x4 extended cab w/tonal cover, very good condition one owner 103K miles $12,999 2003 Subaru Oatback Station Wagon AWD 103k miles, viery nice condition, $6,999 2002 GMC Sierra 2500 4x4 regular cab w/8' Fisher plow, 2010 Ford Fusion SE, 76000 miles very good condition, 4 snow tires auto a/c $12950.00
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The #1 As listed by the EPA: Most - 1st & 2nd most efficient efficient wood Wood stoves in the world - 5 of the top 8 stove in most efficient the wood stoves in the world as world listed by Backed by our exclusive 10 year 100% extended combustor the warranty* *certain terms and conditions EPA!! apply. Please see your owner's
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to receive our daily lunch specials Proudly Serving Boars Head Meats & Cheeses! Pierce Brothers Organic Coffee! Homemade Soups, Sandwiches and Salads!
Store Hours: Sun 6am-9pm ~ Mon - Thurs 5:30am - 9pm Fri 5:30am - 10pm ~ Sat 6am - 10pm Deli Hours 6:30 am - 4:00 pm Breakfast and Lunch served 7 Days a week 6:30 Am to 3Pm
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"Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising." - Mark Twain
Harding Roofing
Specializing in
860-738-9042
www.HardingRoofingLLC.com HardingRoofing@Hotmail.com
CT Reg# 0573534
WALLBANGER CONCRETE
2223 Jacobs Ladder Rd. Becket, MA 01223
WB C
David Dowd (413) 243-1714 (413) 243-3985 Fax
Farrah S. Wax
Attorney At Law
Specializing in Family
55 Pittsfield Road, Suite 6A Lenox, MA 01240 Law Tel: 413-637-8880 Fax: 413-410-0680 Email: farrah.wax.esq@gmail.com waxfamilylaw.com
Charter Plumbing & Heating Fully Licensed and Insured Owner: Nelson Charter Pittsfield MA Phone: 413-344-6939 ncharter66@gmail.com
H L
LITIGATION PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING ZONING & LAND USE
ATTORNEY JEREMIA POLLARD
JPOLLARD@HANNONLERNER.COM
413-243-3311
12 ~~ February, 2013 ~ Otis Gazette ~ www.OtisGazette.com 130th Edition
Stop in for coffee, breakfast, lunch, dessert, a hot drink and more
413.269.6874
Ladies Day
at the Knox Trail Inn
Everyone welcome Every Tuesday Dutch treat Lunch at noon, Games at 1pm, Mah jongg, bridge, dominoes or any game you want to play, We have several tables of mah jongg already. No reservations necessary. Just come. Contact for further information Sylvia Foster, 269 6362
130th Edition
Cookies, Cakes
Route 8 Otis, Mass
413.269.4438
Lillian M. Barker
38 Rood Hill Road Sandisfield, MA 01255
T: 413.528.5509 F: 413.528.6609
JOHN W. FIELD
Owner
(413) 329-6519
john@fieldtreeservice.com
343 Main Street Great Barrington, MA 01230 lbarker@goodworksinsurance.com www.goodworksinsurance.com Canaan | Glastonbury | New Milford | Great Barrington | Worcester
Stationary Docks Rolling Docks Swim Rafts Jet Ski & Boat Lifts
Owner Owner
www.walkonwaterdocks.com
800-369800-369-3905
65 Fairview Street Lee, MA 01238 www.leeaudionsecurity.net
MA LIC #1468C NY LIC# 12000022800
Pizza
(Take out only. Not to be combined)
Woodfired Pizzas ~ Pastas ~ Burgers Salads ~ Wings ~ Kids Menu ~ Full Bar 413.243.2153 ~ 51 Park St., Lee, MA
130th Edition
269-7507
Hair in Otis
Corner of Ridge Ave & Drive B East Otis, MA 01029
Donna Argiro
Keratin Treatments
Precision Cutting & Styling ~ Updos & Braids, Specializing in Hair Color Corrective Color Custom Perms ~ Foil Highlighting Facial Waxing ~ Redken Products Available
Sewer & Water Line Repair Factory Direct Modulars Video Camera Inspections Landscaping & Snow Plowing Paul Giardina Cell: 413.822.2623 Bill Allen Cell: 413.822.9942
130th Edition
Chiefs Corner
February 2013
I wanted to switch gears this month to talk about something that will not only affect the public safety entities, but will also have a profound effect on the regions economy, job market, educational and health care systems. Otis is one of the 40 communities that belong to Wired West, a regional organization working to provide high-speed internet access throughout Western Massachusetts. This was a decision that we, as a town made, at last years town meeting. Response cards were mailed out earlier this fall, asking residents what type of services they would be interested in. The card DOES NOT commit you to having to subscribe to any particular services, it simply helps raise our towns status to one that would financially support such an infrastructure. In the time that you may spend looking for that response card, you could answer a few simple questions on the online version at www.wiredwest.net. It is important to get as many responses as possible to demonstrate that Otis residents want high speed internet services. If we do not reach a number that is close to 50% by the end of February, our town may get left out. I have heard from several town residents on this topic. I have heard numerous concerns on this topic. I listen to residents talk about everything from not wanting their children to miss out educationally, to the concerns of those who had relocated their homes and/or businesses here, who want to be able to remain in town, but who need high speed Internet in order to make that happen. One demographic where responses seem to be lacking the most is from second homeowners. Almost all of us live near a second homeowner or two. Why not take a minute to send them a quick email or phone call directing them to the Wired West website? The deadline has already been pushed back once, and as of today, we are only at a 33.7% response rate. Please, even if you dont think that you will benefit from this yourself, lets help out our friends and neighbors that most definitely will! Thank you as always. Roberta Sarnacki
Roberta J. Sarnacki, Chief of Police Otis Police Department, 1 North Main Road, Otis, MA 01253 (413)-269-0100, ext. 6 rsarnacki@gmail.com Office hours: Wed 7 PM-8:30 PM (Or by Appointment)
Dont let Otis get Left Out of high speed internet! Go to www.wiredwest.net to fill out your support card.
Help Otis Get Wired with Fiber Optic High Speed Internet
16 ~~ February, 2013 ~ Otis Gazette ~ www.OtisGazette.com 130th Edition
ALDOS
BUYING
Your Gold & Silver Unwanted, broken, worn, or discarded jewelry
BUYING
Gold Sterling Platinum Paladium Diamonds
413.243.1113
E-Mail: lakesideestates@verizon.net
130th Edition Wishing All A Happy Valentines Day www.OtisGazette.com ~ Otis Gazette ~ February, 2013 ~~ 17
Residential Commercial
RODHOUSE ROOFING
413-655-2768
POB 4871 Pittsfield, MA 01202 Repairs Free Estimates
Installation
R E D B A R N A L PA C A S
Jeffrey & Sonja Gray
Sanding ~ Staining
Environmentally Safe Finishes Available
413-269-7141 Fax: 413-269-6137 Po Box 390, Otis, Ma 01253
24 STUMP ROAD SANDISFIELD, MA 01255 PH. (413) 258-4905 FAX (413) 258-4801 E-MAIL JEFFANDSONJA@REDBARNALPACAS.COM STUD SERVICES - ANIMAL SALES - FIBER & FELT SALES - BOARDING ALL OUR ALPACAS ARE A.R.I REGISTERED
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over and over again becoming more and more graphic all the time. The repetition and the seemingly normality of this kind of entertainment leaves all of us desensitized as we begin to see this as a normal lifestyle and entertain the images left in our mind. Violent video games are allowed to consume our kids minds from an incredibly early age and the amount of time spent killing things to gain points or get to another level are what keep our children entertained. 3. 4. Isolation we live under the illusion that we are more connected now than ever before. But real interaction, face to face with other human beings, is becoming less and less. Cell phones, I phones i pads, I pods, computers, and video games are not a replacement for one on one face to face conversation and communication and interaction. Texting and instant messaging and email de-humanize and isolate and are
dangerous forgeries for interaction with our kids and each other. It leaves us with a false belief that we are connecting in a meaningful understanding way but in reality we are not. We are able to stay hidden while we give the impression that we are connected. Our communication skills and dialogue are becoming less and less person to person. The amount of distraction and surface level interaction is taking away from quality one on one communication and understanding. 5. Broken Families/Economy Due to the breakdown of the family unit there is now an enormous amount of pressure put on parents or a parent if they have to do it alone, to be all that they need to be for their kids. The amount of hours required to work to provide an income in this economy to sustain a livable lifestyle is exhausting and absurd. At the end of the day for many folks, Mom and/or Dad are too exhausted to spend the time it takes to
(Continued on page 29)
GOT SNOW?
Travis Cabral
413.623.8947
Tile Contractor
Ceramic Tile, Marble & Stone Installation Specializing in glass/ceramic/mosaic and natural stone Custom steam showers and tub surrounds All types of tile installation
Fully Insured / Free Estimates 130th Edition Wishing All A Happy Valentines Day www.OtisGazette.com ~ Otis Gazette ~ February, 2013 ~~ 19
Hi, everyone Well, here it is February already. It sure seems like a very long winter, when you spend it sitting in the window....but, that does help with the 'seasonal disorder" that I have been experiencing. Still have daily visits from my two cat friends. "Big Head" comes to the window in the cellar quite often and we have our own way of communicating. Sometimes when I "sense" he is in the yard, Pops will carry me from window to window, so I can get a good look at him. One time, he even rolled around and put on a good show for me, at the end of the driveway. The other cat, who is also very large, (but with a proportionate head...lol) , still does not come close to the house. Mom surprised him in the garage one day, but he just darted away. I also have an interest in the birds that hang out in the hedges. Pops has been trying to bait them for me, so I can "study" them better. First he put a suet block on the pole out back, but that did not seem to attract them, at all. Now we are trying a container with seed in it, also attached to the pole. So far, not too much luck, but Pops says to give 'em time to find it. I am not the most patient cat in the world Just ask Mom, when I want to be fed at 4 in the morning ha ha ha. Well, Valentine's day is just around the corner and I am trying to think of something romantic that I can do for "Big Head"...maybe I will have Music by Mom put a small bowl of my Friskies out there to share with him.. ( I can watch him enjoy it through the window)..although, he certainly does not look like he is starving..Guess that is about it here...Do something Special Events ~ sweet for your special Family Functions Instant Requests Valentine and "see" ya Mama Novas (413) 269-4229 next month! Meow"
br4229@yahoo.com
Coffee & Tea Breakfast Sandwiches Pulled Pork and Pulled Chicken
Home Cooked Soups, Chowders & Chilis Goulash aand other lunch specials We still have your necessities of grocery Come on in Closed Tuesdays
Farmington River Elementary School PTO March 2013 Calendar Raffle 31 Chances to Win! $10.00 Donation
The Farmington River PTO will once again be promoting a March Cash Calendar Raffle. Area businesses, along with generous anonymous donors, are demonstrating their support of the Farmington River School by purchasing days on the calendar offering cash and prizes that all are sure to enjoy! Each day of March a name is drawn to win that days prize. This year it is filled with $3,500 worth of cash and prizes including a prize of $500 on St. Pattys day made possible by John Field Tree Service and $500 on March 31st made possible by H & H Logging! Best of all..The name chosen on any given day will be returned to the drawing you have the opportunity to win multiple times! You may acquire a calendar for a donation of only $10.00 from your favorite Farmington River student, or contact Tara Beardsley at dtbear@ymail.com or call 413-717-1427 to arrange a purchase of one or more calendars.
Lee
Call 413.717.0342
Great Barrington Canaan CT
#2
et ck Be
#
4
im lovin it
Rd
McDonald's
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Lot # 2 - 1.69 AC - F.S.B.O - $29,900 Lot # 3 - 2.25 AC - F.S.B.O - $34,900 Lot # 4 - 2.50 AC - F.S.B.O- $39,900 Lot # 5 - 2.50 AC - F.S.B.O- $39,900 All 4 Building Lots together - $119,900 Development Possibilities
Need your land surveyed or need to divide your land? Need a title 5 septic inspection or a new septic system designed and permitted? Working near a wetland and need a wetland permit? Kelly, Granger, Parsons and Associates Inc can handle all of these projects and more. We are a 42 year old surveying firm working full time to address the needs of our clients. Estimates and consultations are free and evening or weekend appointments are no problem. Call or email for a prompt reply.
22 ~~ February, 2013 ~ Otis Gazette ~ www.OtisGazette.com 130th Edition
Kidoku
Sudoku
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-2 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 6. If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork. See answers on page 38
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9. If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork. See answers on page 38
DALES
413.243.1950
WWW.FOXMODULARHOMES.COM
Structural Repairs
Wood ~ Masonry Center Beams ~ Support Columns Sagging Floors ~ Sill Timbers Building Level ~ Pier Supports Foundation Repairs-Rebuilds Moisture - Insect Damage
(413) 667-3149
Lic., Insured, HIC.
130th Edition
February is the month of hearts and flowers. Every store has heart cakes, valentine shaped cupcakes, pastries I even saw a macaroni salad the other day tinted pink and in a heart shaped bowl. Yikes! While people think of loving each other this month and Im all for that, Id like to suggest that we also love ourselves enough to forego the red velvet chocolate cake and think about the health of your heart! Heart disease has become the number one killer of both men and women in the US, yet heart disease is preventable; this fact boggles my mind! Baby Boomers are currently the largest demographic in this country and that makes us a force to be reckoned with; its time for us to take charge of our own health care, regardless of what
Congress does! Join me and other fellow Boomers as we change the face of aging! Youve seen the headlines stating that 60 is the new 40. OK, lets make 70 the new 45! Here are a few simple, natural ways to prevent heart disease from controlling our lives: Dont underestimate the effect of stress on health. Stress is inevitable in todays fast paced world, but our reaction to it is not. Try laughing your head off. Really! Laughter releases the tension in many stressful situations. Laughing releases endorphins (feel good hormones) in our bodies and endorphins chase away those harmful stress hormones. Plan some time every day to read some good jokes, watch a comedy sketch, or listen to Robin Williams in your
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SURVEYING & WETLAND SERVICES SEPTIC SYSTEM INSTALLATION SEWER LINE & SEPTIC SYSTEM VIDEO CAMERA SEWER & DRAINAGE LINE LOCATING ALL YOUR LAND SERVICE NEEDS
Cell: 413.347.6057
car during rush hour. Your heart will thank you. Spice up your life! Herbs and spices are rich in antioxidants, low in calories, and they are potent inhibitors of inflammation, which science now believes is one of the top causes of heart disease. Turmeric, cinnamon, and other spices have been used as medicines in India and China for centuries and western science is finally catching up. Some examples: A recent study substantiates that cumins traditional use as a culinary spice in foods is beneficial in combating stress and related disorders. Another study in 2009 proved cumins antioxidant benefits are stronger than that of Vitamin C. As little as a half teaspoon of cinnamon has been shown to significantly reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2
Diabetes as well as reduce other risk factors associated with heart disease. Nutmeg reduces high blood pressure and increases circulation. Turmeric is high in antioxidants which support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties as well. Omega 3 fish oils are amazing antiinflammatories ever see a grizzly bear with heart disease? Omega 3s from cold water fish like salmon, anchovies, herring, tuna, and striped sea bass can significantly reduce high blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. So what are you waiting for, pick up some salmon today! For those of you who really cant stand the taste of fish, most doctors recommend taking 1000 1200 mg. of Omega 3 fish oil supplements a day for optimum heart health.
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STEVE TABERMAN
Owner / Operator
(413) 269-6558
413/528-3364
Ida LeonardGreat Barrington
Roofing
Fully Insured ~ 15+ Years Experience PO Box 107, East Otis, MA 01029
413.209.4676
130th Edition Wishing All A Happy Valentines Day www.OtisGazette.com ~ Otis Gazette ~ February, 2013 ~~ 25
have an IA design (same as above) and doesnt have one. John Boleng from Civil Architectural Designs wants to remove the noncomforming field, leave the sand layer, pump out the 1500 gallon tank, smash and remove it, and then install the JetBat system on the same field location. This will then give the residents a sitting area again, which had been removed with the previous noncompliant design. The Board of Health noted that the abutters had not been notified of this meeting, and Conservation still needed to review this plan. The Board of Health also noted that the abutters wells and the owners well would need to be tested before the work is done, and the abutters wells would need to be tested annually for two years after the install is completed. Don Hawley also recommended the sand be tested to ensure it was still okay for use for the new installation. A decision on this was tabled until the January meeting so abutters could be notified. Liquor License Renewals: There were three renewal requests for off premises licenses for Papas, Katies, and Otis Poultry Farm; there were two renewal requests for on premises licenses for the Knox and for
the Grouse House. We also noted that the state had to be notified that Terranovas would not be renewing their license. Brian Crandal moved to approve the five renewals and the one removal, Don Hawley seconded, and the motion was passed unanimously and the renewals were signed. It was also noted that the ABCC Board needs an estimate of the summer population. This may enable the town to obtain more liquor licenses. Resignation & Appointment for the COA: Mazie Schoonmaker is resigning due to health reasons and Lilian Friberg has requested appointment to Mazies vacancy. Brian moved to accept, Don seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. Lisa will get out the letter of appointment tomorrow. Discussion of Christmas Eve and New Years Eve as half-days: Town Hall employees had requested this be put on the agenda. It was noted that employees had often a half-day on Christmas Eve in the past. After some discussion, Brian made a motion that all Town facilities close at Noon on Christmas Eve, including the Town Hall, Maintenance Department, Highway Garage and Transfer Station. Roberta then noted Thanksgiving Eve should be a half day as well. Don then amended the motion to include Thanksgiving Eve and note that New Years Eve remain a full day of work for all town departments. Brian seconded the amendments and the amended motion passed unanimously. The Board asked Chris to revise the Personnel Policy accordingly. Other: Pro Forma Signatures: Chris presented the DOR recap of the Unused Levy Letter for signature by the board, which was signed. 4-H Club: Lisa noted the gymnasium had been reserved for an informational meeting for starting up a 4-H Club in town. The meeting will be Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013 at 6:00 pm. The board was excited that 4-H
may once again have a presence in town. Town Flags: Lisa presented to the board the flag sizes that were ordered for the Bicentennial celebration, how many were ordered for each size, and the cost for each size. The Board then asked Lisa to get the current prices and any minimum order quantities. Planning Board: Michael Ernst noted we did not have a quorum present to take any votes or make any decisions, but those present still discussed with Bill Dyer the future needs of the Rec Center, the Library, and the Museum. They also discussed with Hank Wingate about the East Otis Church. Hank would like to make the area of the church nice for residential use and possibly have a memorial to the building. Library: Nothing new to report since yesterday. Abutter Letter for Hidden Pond: Walter notified the Board that a private individual had received a $25,000 state grant to reestablish the cottontail rabbit in the Southern Berkshires. Part of this reestablishment will require saplings to be cut down in and around Hidden Pond from Route 23. Land: It was noted that we need to move forward with the land grant from Ed Williams so this can be completed before the end of the year. Energy Meeting: It was noted that the Energy Committee has a paid public relations person who can be utilized for communication with various media. Classification/Compensation Plan: The Finance Board will be meeting Monday at 4:00 pm to discuss the funding for this. Brian moved to go forward with payment for this pending approval by the Finance Board. Don seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. Post Office: It was noted there will be a public forum on January 9th at 1:00 pm at the East Otis Post Office to discuss the future of that Post Office. The Select Board meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.
130th Edition
Visit Otisproperty.com
Thurs ~ Mon
413-258-4477
www.newbostoninn.com
413 441-9338
Also known for Home Repair
(413) 848-2057
Member AAHA ~ American Animal Hospital Association
130th Edition
parent their children. As a result, the TV, the computer, the video game, the ipad now becomes the baby sitter and the parent by default. 6. Over-medicating/self medicating our youth and our entire society need I say more? From the moment our kids enter the school system they are being medicated for behavioral problems. The medication as with any medication that affects behavior has an equally negative effect as time goes on. Many studies have shown the end result can be catastrophic. Medication is administered to as many people in this generation as possible under the pretence that it will make you feel better about everything that makes you feel bad. While it is true at some level it has spun out of control and we are becoming anesthetized to our true state and reality. 7. The lack of absolutes in our society today is yet another reason. Prayer or a moment of silence in schools has been removed due to an infringement on the rights of someone else. The absolute of what is right or wrong according to the Scriptures is now scoffed at by the secularism of our day. In its place has been taught the doctrine of tolerance. When tolerance is the doctrine we live by absolutes are slowly methodically destroyed. What should be right becomes wrong and what was wrong now becomes right. Who and what is the standard, the plumb line we all must answer to? We need a real discussion, folks. Dont let the talking heads of the media and our government leaders and special interest groups shape this debate. Lets get real. It starts in our homes, neighborhood blocks, towns and cities. Its called community and we need to shape the debate. It has actually already started. You see, society is bringing it to us in the schools, the movie theaters, and the corners of our city streets where we are fearful to walk for fear of harm. Its not looking pretty. Our culture has become and is
130th Edition
becoming more, desensitized, anesthetized, distracted, and disillusioned. We are becoming and have become part of nothing more for some, than a videogame or a movie.
(Continued from page 25)
Exercise is not a bad word and doesnt need to be a chore. Exercise can be fun and can also easily fit into our daily schedules. According to the Mayo clinic, physical activity helps control your weight and can reduce your chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It also reduces stress, which can be a factor in heart disease. For us busy Baby Boomers, the Mayo clinic suggests breaking a workout into three, ten minute segments, so: Most of us get a ten minute coffee break in the morning use it to run downstairs to a bathroom on a lower level and then walk back up and take the long way back to your desk. Or walk fast around the block for ten minutes. Another option is purchasing a head set and walking around your desk while talking on the phone. We Boomers invented multi-tasking, so its second nature to fit exercise into our daily routines. Push-ups are a great way to get the blood pumping and can be done on your knees or forearms if military style is not possible for you. I sometimes do a few push -ups while preparing dinner. Then as I walk around the kitchen getting dishes, spices, etc. Ill do lunge walks. This is a great workout I can do right in the kitchen, I dont need to drive to a gym to do it! Get creative and find as many ways to fit ten minutes of fitness into your schedule as you can, while spicing up your cooking to include these beneficial herbs, so together we can stamp out heart disease in our lifetimes. Best of Heart Health, Kathi
www.OtisGazette.com ~ Otis Gazette ~ February, 2013 ~~ 29
My Bear Story
Bear sightings are a rather common event nowadays. They are seen just about everywhere. I have seen quite a few myself. There are those moments when we view these events that one wishes they had taken some video footage and this is one of those times. I was walking my dog in a more rural neighborhood in Torrington in November. We were nearing the end of our walk, almost to the driveway, he is busy paying attention to nothing, I am chatting on the cell phone. We were passing the second house away from our driveway when I had the urge to look up into their yard. No more than 15 or so yards away were three bears. They were gathered in a group around a trash can, two waiting for a turn, the third halfway in it (they had knocked it over). At the same time, another neighbor farther up
the street came out to get her mail and my dog started to bark. Now, dont think that my lab would catch a scent of the bear, no, he was barking at the neighbor getting her mail. Anyway, the noise was enough to catch the bears attention and the one in the garbage can backed out of it with a big white box hanging out of both sides of its mouth. The sight was quite amusing. The best part, however, was the fourth bear. There was a fourth bear. He had decided to be the rebel of the bunch. While the other three picked through garbage this devious little fellow decided to climb the tree that was in the middle of the yard about 10 yards away. He was up quite high and standing in the crook or y of the tree. Standing in full stature, checking us out. After a few minutes he decided he might come down so he let himself down to a crouch and worked his way sideways in the
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crook of the tree, head facing the wood line and away from me, his chubby backside facing myself, my dog, and the road. As he tried to move out of the crook forward, something happened his chubby little bottom wouldnt fit through the crook of the tree and he got stuck! HAHAHA it was an absolute riot! I was roaring with laughter! His little hind leg was swinging back and forth trying to get a push off to get himself out of the quandary he was in but to no avail. I felt like I was watching the original Winnie the Pooh in action. He was in no panic, not moving quickly or getting frustrated just the Oh bother Winnie the Pooh attitude. I actually started to think I might have to call the DEP because a bear was stuck in a tree! The little fellow finally figured out that if he stood up again and turned around the other way, he might stand a better chance. I watched as he managed to get himself in
an upright position again, then turn so that his head was facing myself, the dog and the road, and his chubby bottom was facing the woods. He was able to let himself down that way with ease but he stopped himself when his head was just framed in the y of the tree and watched me a bit. Then he let himself down to the ground and slowly wandered to the back of the yard. You know that yellow lab of mine never did take notice of what was going on. How could a dog, a yellow lab, a sporting dog, made for hunting, miss 4 bears? I dont know but I am getting the idea of who will be protecting who should a situation ever arise!
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headlights covered a broader area. His body was sleek, a brown/tan color larger than my lab and more sleek, beautiful condition but it was that tail, that tail that tail that dropped to the ground and curled up again there was no mistaking what I was watching as I sat in the road this big majestic cat gracefully striding along the side of someones home. He never ran, he just moved forward at a steady, smooth pace. He strode between the house and the childrens trampoline, gracefully leapt up onto the stonewall and proceeded to the wood line, then out of sight. It took me half a day to digest what I had seen. When it struck me, I mean really struck me, WOW! I did call the DEP at that point. The woman was very nice she asked me the routine questions the only one I still remember is, did you get a picture? I have a picture. It is developed in my memory. I will always have a picture of The Cat that isnt in Connecticut just as the Hoods do of their Cat that isnt in Massachusetts.
Randy Klonowski
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Jeffrey A. Wilkinson
Broker/Owner 164 S. Main Rd PO box 453 Otis, MA 01253
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